Forecasters warn that the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season could bring significant storms to the United States, echoing last year’s destructive weather patterns. According to a recent AccuWeather report, as many as 18 hurricanes are expected to develop after the season officially starts on June 1, 2025.
High-Impact Storms Expected Along the Gulf and East Coast
Meteorologists anticipate that between three and six of these hurricanes could reach Category 3 strength or higher, bringing severe wind damage and heavy rainfall to vulnerable regions. Areas at the greatest risk include the Gulf Coast, Florida’s Panhandle, the Carolinas, and Atlantic Canada.
“There’s always a chance a hurricane could make landfall anywhere along the coast, but those regions are particularly susceptible this year,” AccuWeather meteorologist Isaac Longley told The Post.
New York, on the other hand, may escape the worst of the storms.
“It takes a very specific set of conditions for a hurricane to travel up the East Coast and strike New York directly,” Longley explained. “The storm would need to sync up with another system moving across the country at just the right time.”
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Warm Ocean Temperatures Could Fuel Stronger Hurricanes
One key factor contributing to this year’s storm intensity is the above-average Atlantic Ocean temperatures.
“Water temperatures across much of the Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico are currently 1 to 2 degrees Celsius above normal,” Longley noted. Warmer waters provide more energy for storm systems, increasing the likelihood of stronger hurricanes.
According to Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE)—a metric used to gauge the total strength of a hurricane season—this year’s storms could generate between 125 and 175 ACE units, exceeding the historical 30-year average of 123.
Global Weather Patterns Influencing the 2025 Hurricane Season
Two major climate factors outside the United States are expected to shape the hurricane season:
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The Bermuda-Azores High: This large, high-pressure system in the North Atlantic influences the direction of tropical storms. Its behavior will play a role in determining whether hurricanes move toward the U.S. coast or stay out at sea.
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West African Weather Patterns: Storms that originate off Africa’s west coast often develop into hurricanes as they travel across the Atlantic. Currently, air temperatures in that region are cooler than normal, which could delay some storm activity until later in the season.
“That part of Africa is running below average in temperature, which might push back the peak of hurricane activity,” Longley explained.
Season Runs Through November Amid Concerns of Repeat Devastation
The 2025 hurricane season will officially conclude on November 30. Forecasters hope that early warnings and preparedness efforts will help minimize damage and loss of life.
Last year, hurricanes Milton and Helene caused widespread destruction, leading to hundreds of fatalities and billions in damages across Florida, Texas, and the southeastern U.S.
With experts forecasting another active and powerful season, coastal communities are urged to stay alert and ready for potential impacts .
