Capitol Beat News Service

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Forecasters expect 13-19 named storms and 6-10 hurricanes, including 3-5 major hurricanes.

Warm sea surface temperatures are a primary factor contributing to the increased hurricane activity.

ATLANTA – As the Augusta area and other Southeastern communities continue to recover from last year’s Hurricane Helene, federal forecasters are predicting another vigorous storm season this year.

The National Weather Service is expecting an above-average number of hurricanes, giving 60% odds of above-normal activity in the Atlantic Ocean, 30% for near-normal and 10% for below-normal.

“Warm sea surface temperatures (are) probably the number one contributor,” Ken Graham, the National Weather Service director, said Thursday during a news briefing stream

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