Enterprise security leaders must remain prepared for potential hurricanes as the 2022 season progresses. Atmospheric and oceanic conditions still favor an above-normal 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, according to NOAA’s annual mid-season update issued today by the Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service.

Mid-season hurricane predictions for the Atlantic region

NOAA forecasters have slightly decreased the likelihood of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season to 60% (lowered from the outlook issued in May, which predicted a 65% chance). The likelihood of near-normal activity has risen to 30% and the chances remain at 10% for a below-normal season.

"We’re just getting into the peak months of August through October for hurricane development, and we anticipate that more storms are on the way," said NOAA Administrator Dr. Rick Spinrad. NOAA’s update to the 2022 outlook — which covers the entire six-month hurricane season that ends on Nov. 30 — calls for 14-20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or greater), of which six to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater). Of those, three to five could become major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). 

So far, the season has seen three named storms and no hurricanes in the Atlantic Basin. An average hurricane season produces 14 named storms, of which seven become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.

How enterprise organizations can prepare for hurricanes

Even with forecasts at the season level, hurricane landfall remains difficult to predict more than a week in advance, meaning some enterprise organizations may only have seven days to prepare for a storm that could affect their area. 

This timeline necessitates a strong severe weather preparedness plan ahead of any potential storm activity. Ken Graham, Director of the National Weather Service, emphasized the importance of early preparation facing an upcoming hurricane. "Ensure that you are ready to take action if a hurricane threatens your area by developing an evacuation plan and gathering hurricane supplies now, before a storm is bearing down on your community," he said.

Organizational security professionals can follow these tips to better prepare their enterprises for hurricanes:

• Review emergency preparedness plans
• Establish weatherproof emergency communications with employees
• Follow local and state safety advisories
• Stock up on emergency supplies, such as generators for continued power during a storm