May 23, 2019 - Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Canadians value accurate and timely information when hurricanes threaten our lands and waters. Environment and Climate Change Canada's meteorologists and scientists work around the clock to provide accurate forecasts to help citizens and weather-sensitive businesses and industry to be prepared when a tropical storm is on its way.
The 2019 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook, released earlier today by the United States' National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), predicts 9-15 named storms, 4-8 hurricanes and up to 2-4 major hurricanes for this season. The Outlook is a general guide to the expected overall activity during the upcoming hurricane season. Today, the Canadian Hurricane Centre put this seasonal forecast into perspective for Canadians.
NOAA predicts hurricane activity in the North Atlantic Ocean this year will be near normal. Regardless of the number of storms forecast for the entire Atlantic Basin, on average, the Canadian Hurricane Centre responds to three to four tropical cyclone events each year, with one or two of those affecting Canadian soil, and another two or three threatening offshore waters.
The Canadian Hurricane Centre is encouraging Canadians to prepare for the 2019 hurricane season. The season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, when the waters of the Atlantic Ocean are warm enough to produce tropical cyclones.
Typically, hurricanes are of greater concern in Canadian waters later in the season; however, the Canadian Hurricane Centre monitors the Atlantic Ocean year‑round for any tropical or tropical‑like cyclones that could pose a threat to Canada or its waters.
"It only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it a bad season. By knowing the forecasted path and intensity of a storm, Canadians can take the steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property."
- Bob Robichaud, Warning Preparedness Meteorologist
Quick facts
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Climate change knows no borders and Canadians across the country are feelings its impacts. Sea level rise caused by climate change will result in an even greater impact from the storm surge generated by hurricanes.
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Canadians can prepare for hurricane season by assembling emergency kits and readying their homes and properties (visit the Get Prepared website); and, by following the Hurricane Centre's hurricane bulletins online or through local media.
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Environment and Climate Change Canada's state-of-the-art-weather forecasting systems give Canadians notice of approaching tropical storms or hurricanes days in advance.
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Canadian Hurricane Centre meteorologists focus their attention on the storms that have the potential to affect Canada or its waters. They track a storm's path, predict its intensity and issue warnings.
