Busy Atlantic hurricane season forecast

SILVER SPRINGS, Md., May 22 (UPI) -- U.S. meteorologists expect the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season to be above normal levels, urging people in hurricane-prone areas to begin emergency planning.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is projecting a 75 percent probability the Atlantic hurricane season will be a very active one.

"For the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA scientists predict 13 to 17 named storms, with seven to 10 becoming hurricanes, of which three to five could become major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher," said retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad Lautenbacher, NOAA administrator. An average Atlantic hurricane season brings 11 named storms, with six becoming hurricanes, including two major hurricanes.

Last year, predicted seasonal hurricane activity proved to be too high when an unexpected El Nino developed, preventing Atlantic storms from forming and strengthening.

"There is some uncertainty this year as to whether or not La Nina will form, and if it does how strong it will be," said Gerry Bell, NOAA's lead hurricane forecaster. But he said even if La Nina doesn't develop, the conditions associated with the ongoing active hurricane era still favor an above-normal season.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.