The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center said there is a 90 percent chance of a near normal or above normal season. The 2008 outlook indicates a 60 percent to 70 percent chance of 12 to 16 named storms, including six to nine hurricanes and two to five major hurricanes, the agency said Thursday at a news conference intended to urge residents in vulnerable areas to prepare for the start of six-month hurricane season June 1.

"Living in a coastal state means having a plan for each and every hurricane season. Review or complete emergency plans now -- before a storm threatens," NOAA Administrator Conrad C. Lautenbacher said in a statement. "Planning and preparation is the key to storm survival and recovery."

There were 15 named storms, including six hurricanes, last year, the NOAA said.