By Clint Watson
The 2018 hurricane season could be as busy as the 2017 season, according to newly released predictions.
Colorado State University (CSU) issued its preliminary seasonal forecast on Thursday, less than two months away from the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 through November 30.
The season, according to CSU, is expected to be above average producing 14 storms, seven of which are expected to become hurricanes with three being major storms.
While above the long-term average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes, this forecast is quieter than 2017, which had 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes and six major hurricanes, respectively.
Although hurricane season in the Atlantic starts June 1, the majority of storms occur between mid-August and mid-October meaning, this prediction is coming four months before the bulk of hurricane activity.
Deputy Director of the Department of Meteorology Basil Dean confirmed the early prediction, noting that by the end of May, the official predictions will be revealed by the National Hurricane Centre (NHC).
“I’m advising residents throughout the Bahamas not to mind the numbers, because all it takes is one storm to impact your coast line,” said Dean.
“We need to also be reminded that we have had recent active seasons, last year was two brushes and then there was hurricane Matthew, which touched the entire chain. And a year before that, the southern islands were impacted and are still recovering from Joaquin.”
Dean told Eyewitness News that the bottom line is that the country must be prepared.
“This is a good time to get ready and make necessary repairs…,” he said.
“Tree trimming, etc. Once the season gets going, you should then monitor what’s going on in the Atlantic and Caribbean seas and follow the precautions issued.”
