Oak Hill, WV (WOAY-TV): Several meteorological factors have forced the Colorado State University Team to increase numbers from its original forecast.
Chief Meteorologist Chad Merrill had an exclusive interview with Phil Klotzbach, leader of the hurricane outlook at Colorado State University. The forecast now calls for 18 named storms (including the named storms that have already formed), 9 hurricanes and four major hurricanes.
The reasons for the increase: The Atlantic temperatures are near record warmth and one month ahead of schedule thanks to a strong negative North Atlantic Oscillation that has weakened the subtropical high pressure. Indications show the subtropical high pressure will remain weaker than average.
Klotzbach indicates the recent lull in activity since Tropical Storm Cindy in mid-June will end by mid-July as favorable water temperatures and upper-level conditions lead to an increase in activity.
