The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on Sunday, June 1, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an active year ahead.

According to NOAA’s annual outlook, there is a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season, and just a 10% chance of below-normal activity.

Forecasters anticipate 13 to 19 named storms, with 6 to 10 expected to become hurricanes. Of those, 3 to 5 may strengthen into major hurricanes—Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. These predictions come with a 70% confidence level.

While the forecast outlines overall seasonal activity, it does not predict where or when storms will make landfall. NOAA emphasizes that every storm can have serious impacts, regardless of how active the season is. Coastal residents are urged to prepare in advance, every year.

Several climate factors are contributing to this year’s outlook, including ENSO-neutral conditions, above-average sea surface temperatures, low wind shear, and a potentially active West African Monsoon, which often helps spark Atlantic hurricanes.

“This outlook is a call to action,” said Ken Graham, Director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “Be prepared. Take proactive steps now to make a plan and gather supplies so you’re ready before a storm threatens.”

The list of names for the 2025 season is listed below. The only new addition is Dexter, replacing Dorian, which was retired due to the widespread devastation it caused in 2019 across the Bahamas, the southeastern United States, and eastern Canada.

2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Names:

Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dexter, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy

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