Why the 2025 Hurricane Season Will Be Different: 5 Key Factors to Watch
By Imperium
The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1; however, due to storms forming early in recent years, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) now begins issuing tropical weather outlooks on May 15.
“We’re seeing a shift not only in storm behavior, but also in the expectations of how organizations prepare and respond,” said Frank Russo, Managing Director, Imperium Consulting Group. “This season calls for a higher level of readiness across both public and private sectors.”
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season approaches, forecasters and emergency planners are warning that this year may not look like the last. With climate signals shifting and new tools in place, here are five reasons why the 2025 season stands apart.
5 Key Factors to Watch this Hurricane Season
1. Above-Average Storm Activity Forecasted
Meteorologists from AccuWeather and other major organizations are predicting a slightly busier-than-average season, with 13 to 18 named storms, 7 to 10 hurricanes and up to five major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) expected. This uptick follows a global trend of more intense tropical activity in recent years.
2. Warmer Waters Mean Rapid Intensification
Sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico are running well above normal, creating ideal conditions for storms to strengthen quickly. Rapid intensification has become a defining challenge in recent years, catching coastal communities off-guard with limited warning.
3. Shift from La Niña to Neutral Conditions
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that a transition from La Niña to neutral ENSO conditions is underway, changing wind shear patterns and possibly increasing hurricane activity in the Atlantic. Unlike El Niño, which tends to suppress storm formation, neutral conditions can open the door to more frequent and stronger systems.
4. Improved Forecasting and Communication
In a bid to improve public readiness, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is rolling out a more refined “cone of uncertainty” to depict storm paths better. Additionally, a new national rip current risk map aims to address coastal threats beyond wind and surge.
5. Higher Risk Zones
Identified Certain areas are facing elevated risk this year. According to AccuWeather, the Gulf Coast, the Carolinas and even parts of Atlantic Canada are more likely to see direct impacts from tropical systems. Residents in these areas should review emergency plans early.
How Imperium Can Protect Your Organization Against Weather-Related Risks
With evolving ocean conditions and improved forecasting tools, 2025 presents a new set of hurricane challenges. Preparation, early warning and adaptation remain the best defenses against what could be a stormy season ahead. At Imperium, our team of consultants specializes in navigating businesses through uncertainty stemming from catastrophic events like hurricanes. We can help develop a financial recovery strategy to protect what matters most to your organization in the event of damage or disruption following a storm, ensuring the continuity of your operations. Reach out to the Imperium team today to prepare for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.
