"NOAA Raises Forecast To 7-10 Hurricanes This Season"

"Raising its forecast, the U.S. government's weather agency on Thursday predicted the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season will produce 14 to 19 named storms, 7 to 10 of them becoming hurricanes.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said three to five of the storms could turn into major Category 3 or above hurricanes, with winds of more than 110 miles per hour (177 km per hour).

In May, NOAA projected 12 to 18 tropical storms, with 6 to 10 growing into hurricanes and 3 to 6 strengthening into big ones.

The season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, has already brought five tropical storms."

Jane Sutton reports for Reuters August 5, 2011.

SEE ALSO:

"Hurricane Forecasters Stand Pat on Season" (Cox)

"Hurricane Forecast Team at Colorado State University Continues to Call for Active Season" (Colo. State Press Release)

"Colorado State Sticks To Forecast for Active Hurricane Season" (Insurance ERM)

"Stormier Atlantic Hurricane Season Now Predicted" (ENS)