See the First 2023 Hurricane Season Forecast

NOAA also issues a seasonal forecast each year. However, as of early May, their outlook for this season hadn't been released yet.

It's important to keep in mind that these seasonal forecasts apply to the whole Atlantic basin. That includes the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. So, for example, the roughly 13 named storms expected by Colorado State this season won't all affect the U.S. coast line.

Tropical Tip: Historically, the busiest part of hurricane season is mid-August to mid-October.

Two main factors in making a forecast for hurricane season are El Nino/La Nina and sea surface temperatures.

Warmer water favors tropical cyclone development. So, sea surface temperatures already above normal across the Atlantic would suggest a busier season. However, the development of El Nino later this year is expected to limit tropical cyclone activity. This is due to more wind shear over the Atlantic when El Nino is in play. Wind shear inhibits tropical cyclone development.