Last week, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) published its predictions for this year's hurricane activity in the Atlantic.

For the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from 1 June to 30 November, NOAA forecasters anticipate an above-normal hurricane activity.

In a press release, the association said it predicts "an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season."

With a 70% confidence, the NOAA expects a range of 17 to 25 total named storms with winds of 39 mph (63 km/h) or higher.

Of those, 8 to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes.

This season's predictions arise from a combination of factors, including unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic, the La Nina conditions in the Pacific, decreased Atlantic trade winds, and reduced wind shear.

These conditions collectively create a favourable environment for the formation of tropical storms.

Talking to the media, Erik A. Hooks, Deputy Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), highlighted that weather emergencies can happen at any moment.

"Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow," said Hooks.