There has been a change in the prediction for the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is now predicted the season to be below-normal. The prediction is now for 9-13 named storms – 4-7 hurricanes – up to 2 major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher. The forecast number includes the four named storms that already have formed this year. Forecasters say one reason for the reduction is because the sea surface temperatures have been cooler than average and there has been stronger wind shear and increased amounts of dry air which has suppressed tropical formation.