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Experts maintain we can expect 'very active' hurricane season

20 named storms forecast
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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Forecasters from Colorado State University said Tuesday they still believe we should prepare for an above-average hurricane season.

Tropical development in the Caribbean has been stymied recently bySaharan dust.

However, forecasters said they still anticipate an "above-normal probability" for major hurricanes making landfall along the United States coastline and in the Caribbean.

RELATED: Hurricane Guide

Tuesday's forecast said there is a 45 percent chance of a major hurricane making landfall along the U.S. east coast, including Florida.

The Colorado State forecasters said they believe 20 named storms will form in 2020. That number is up from the 16 named storms that were forecast on April 2.

The forecast also predicts there will be nine hurricanes, including four that will have an intensity level of Category 3, 4 or 5.

Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly and Edouard have already formed in the Atlantic this season.

Residents are reminded to prepare for hurricanes every season, regardless of how much activity is predicted.

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TERMS TO KNOW

TROPICAL STORM WATCH: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal area within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WATCH: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

HURRICANE WARNING: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. A hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.