The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30, leaving Tampa Bay residents just weeks to prepare after last year’s destructive storms.
According to forecasters at Colorado State University, this year could bring 17 named storms, with nine potentially strengthening into hurricanes. Four of these may reach major hurricane status with winds exceeding 111 mph (Category 3 or higher).
Andrea will lead the roster of named storms, followed by Barry, Chantal and newcomer Dexter, which replaces Hurricane Dorian after its retirement following the devastating 2019 season.
Weather experts note that the 2025 season occurs during a transitional period in the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) pattern. Late 2024 saw the world enter a La Niña phase, which typically correlates with increased Atlantic storm activity, but this pattern is expected to weaken this year, returning to a neutral ENSO status.
Research from Florida State University indicates that hurricane impacts during neutral years are often heightened for the Florida Peninsula and Gulf Coast, similar to La Niña patterns. Meanwhile, the East Coast typically experiences reduced tropical cyclone activity during neutral conditions, with the Caribbean seeing average impact levels.
Emergency management officials emphasize the importance of assembling disaster supply kits well before storms threaten. Essential items include one gallon of water per person daily for at least three days, non-perishable food supplies, battery-powered radios, flashlights, first aid supplies, and important documents secured in waterproof containers.
Pet owners should also develop specific plans for their animals, including preparing separate emergency kits and identifying pet-friendly evacuation options, as many emergency shelters cannot accommodate pets due to health and safety regulations.
Residents are strongly advised to know their evacuation zones, which are designated based on storm surge flooding risks. Evacuation orders are issued for these zones to protect residents from potentially life-threatening coastal flooding, which typically subsides after storms pass.
For information about your specific evacuation zone, consult local emergency management resources.