2021’s Hurricane Season to Remain a Busy One, Forecast Says

For immediate release
New York Press Office: Michael Barry, 917-923-8245, michaelb@iii.org

NEW YORK, July 8, 2021— An updated 2021 Atlantic hurricane season forecast from Colorado State University (CSU) released today projects even more tropical cyclone activity than previously anticipated.

Phil Klotzbach, Ph.D., an Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) non-resident scholar and a research scientist in the Department of Atmospheric Science at CSU, and his colleagues are forecasting 20 named storms (including those that have already formed) and nine hurricanes while maintaining the CSU team’s previous prediction of four major hurricanes. Major hurricanes are defined as those with wind speeds reaching Category 3, 4 or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. A month ago, CSU’s forecast envisioned 18 named storms and eight hurricanes.

Five named storms (Ana, Bill, Claudette, Danny, and Elsa), one of which became a hurricane (Elsa), have formed so far in 2021. Fourteen named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes develop in a typical year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

“Parts of the Caribbean and tropical Atlantic are now warmer than normal, and there are indications we’ll see more warming in these areas in the next few weeks,” Dr. Klotzbach stated. “Warmer water provides more fuel for hurricanes. In addition, the odds of El Niño conditions, which help weaken and tear apart Atlantic hurricanes, are extremely low this season.”

“Given what we’ve seen this year, those residing in hurricane-prone states should take steps now to reduce their risks from wind and water-caused property damage,” said Sean Kevelighan, CEO, Triple-I. “If they haven’t done so already, homeowners, renters, and business owners should review their policies with an insurance professional to make sure they have the right types and amounts of coverage. That also means exploring flood insurance since flood-caused damage is not covered under standard homeowners, renters, or business insurance policies.”

Flood policies can be purchased through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and numerous private insurers. Private-passenger vehicles damaged or destroyed by either wind or flooding are covered under the optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy.

Through its Resilience Accelerator and other educational materials, the Triple-I offers numerous hurricane season preparedness tips.

RELATED LINKS

Video: Dr. Klotzbach Discusses CSU’s Updated 2021 Hurricane Season Forecast
Facts & Statistics: Hurricanes
Article:  Catastrophes & Insurance Issues
Infographics: 10 Tips to Protect Your Home and Finances When Storms Blow into Town, What Are Hurricane Deductibles? 

The Triple-I has a full library of educational videos on its YouTube Channel. Information about Triple-I mobile apps can be found here.