SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND — The chances of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season in 2019 have increased now that El Nino is over.<br /><br />According to the NOAA, El Nino occurs when sea-surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific are warmer than average, and east winds blow weaker than usual.<br /><br />The agency declared Thursday that El Nino has ended and transitioned into a neutral state, bringing normal water temperatures and atmospheric conditions to the central and eastern Pacific.<br /><br />El Nino typically suppresses hurricane activity in the Atlantic, so its end could mean a busier hurricane season.<br /><br />The NOAA says oceanic and atmospheric conditions are now favorable for an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season.<br /><br />It is expecting 10 to 17 named storms, 5 to 9 of which will become hurricanes, and two to four major hurricanes with winds of 111 miles per hour or greater.<br /><br />However, Colorado State University tropical scientist Phil Klotzbach has noted that continuing warmth in the central Pacific over the next few months could prevent winds from becoming too hurricane-favorable in the Atlantic and Caribbean.
