Summarised by Centrist
Meteorologists had confidently predicted a historic hurricane season, with over two dozen storms expected. Yet, despite all the conditions seemingly in place, the Atlantic has remained quiet.
Now, the experts are left explaining why predictions fell flat, while wondering if climate change is shaking up their models.
This marks the longest late-summer lull in hurricane activity in over 50 years. Phil Klotzbach, who leads Colorado State University’s hurricane season outlook admits: “It’s definitely taken me by surprise.”
Jon Porter, chief meteorologist for AccuWeather, said: “These are factors that are not fully understood by anyone.”
While some storms may still form in the coming months, the quiet season is testing public trust in meteorologists and their long-term predictions.
Journalist Scott Dance writes that: “Many who warned the public to prepare for a dangerous summer and fall are now caught in the awkward position of almost rooting for storms, lest they end up eating crow — and losing the public’s confidence — when their predictions fall flat come November.”
He argues that: “If more hurricanes don’t materialise soon, the confusion could have lasting impact.”
