CSU Predicts Record-Breaking Atlantic Hurricane Season for 2024

Colorado State University (CSU) hurricane researchers have released their initial forecast for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting an extremely active year. The forecast, drawing from record warm sea surface temperatures and the transition from El Niño to La Niña conditions, suggests a conducive environment for hurricanes. CSU expects 23 named storms, with 11 evolving into hurricanes, including five reaching major hurricane status.

This prediction marks the highest in CSU’s history for an April outlook since it began in 1995. The forecast also emphasizes the potential for above-average hurricane activity, estimating the season’s activity at 170% of the 1991–2020 average. Additionally, the report introduces a new metric, the Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) occurring west of 60 degrees west longitude, to better predict landfalling storm impacts. CSU plans to update its forecast through the season, urging coastal residents to prepare, as "it takes only one storm near you to make this an active season."