Houston in the Hurricane Zone?

2024 Hurricane Season Outlook

Get Ready for an Active Season, Forecasters Warn

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be an active one, with forecasters predicting a higher-than-average number of named storms and hurricanes. While it's impossible to know for sure where these storms will hit, the Houston region is certainly in the potential path.

At Colorado State University, researchers have released their annual hurricane season forecast, calling this year's outlook the most aggressive in recent memory. They predict 19 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. The average for the Atlantic basin is 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.

The National Weather Service's Houston/Galveston office is also warning residents to be prepared for an active season. In a recent statement, they said, "We urge everyone to take this time to review their hurricane preparedness plans and make sure they have the supplies they need to stay safe and informed during a hurricane."

One of the things that makes this year's forecast so concerning is the fact that it is expected to be an El Niño year. El Niño is a climate pattern that typically leads to warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean. These warmer waters can help to fuel hurricanes.

So, what can you do to prepare for the 2024 hurricane season? Here are a few tips:

• Make sure you have a hurricane preparedness plan in place.
• Gather supplies, such as food, water, and first aid kits.
• Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts.
• Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.