2012 Hurricane season expected to be quiet

Mr. Gray stated that the below-average season was expected due to a combination of an anomalously cool tropical Atlantic and the likely development of the El Nino.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Wednesday April 4, 2012 – Antiguan officials are expecting a quiet hurricane season following early predictions from hurricane expert, Professor Emeritus William Gray.

As June start of the 2012 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, Mr. Gray in his early predictions said a quiet season was being anticipated. However, he warned all those within the hurricane belt that did not mean they should be complacent in their preparations for the season.

It is anticipated that there will be at least four hurricanes and 10 storms during the 2012 hurricane season. However, Dr. Gray noted that there was a 40 per cent chance that at least one hurricane will make Caribbean landfill.

In his report Mr. Gray stated that the below-average season was expected due to a combination of an anomalously cool tropical Atlantic and the likely development of the El Nino. But he reminded all those living in the Caribbean, especially along coastlines, to exercise all measure of caution throughout the season.

Director of Antigua’s Meteorological Services, Keithley Meade, also warned against complacency, stressing that the news of a below average season was not an opportunity for people to drop their guard. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)