News Summary
Virginia residents are advised to prepare for a potentially active 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, with forecasts predicting 13 to 18 named storms. Factors such as warmer Atlantic waters contribute to the heightened risk, with 3 to 6 storms expected to impact the U.S. directly. The state’s Department of Emergency Management is urging residents to stock emergency supplies and develop family plans ahead of the season.
Virginia Prepares for Active 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season
Virginia residents are urged to brace for a potentially active 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, with forecasters predicting between 13 to 18 named storms during the season, which officially begins on June 1 and peaks on September 10. AccuWeather’s recent overview highlights that Virginia, along with several East Coast states, may be significantly affected by severe weather this season.
According to forecasts, there is a 20% chance of experiencing more than 18 named storms. The predictions indicate that 7 to 10 of these storms could develop into hurricanes, with approximately 3 to 5 reaching Category 3 or higher. AccuWeather also estimates that between 3 to 6 storms may make direct impacts on the United States.
Factors for the active season include warmer-than-usual Atlantic waters, which could contribute to rapid storm intensifications. Storms may start developing as early as June and could escalate in intensity as the season progresses toward its end. The leftover impacts from previous storms continue to linger in the minds of Virginia residents, especially after last year’s devastating flooding caused by storm remnants.
Potential Impacts and Preparedness
Predicted storm impacts include flooding, strong winds, tornadoes, and rising tides that could specifically affect low-lying areas such as Old Town Alexandria. The potential for impactful weather events underscores the urgent need for residents to prepare.
The forecast indicates that Virginia has a 24% probability of hurricanes making landfall, with a 2% chance of significant hurricanes, representing double the long-term average. Despite having the lowest probability among coastal states for a named storm passing within 50 miles at 54%, this figure remains above the historical average of 46%.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) aligns with AccuWeather’s predictions, indicating a 60% likelihood of an above-average hurricane season. NOAA forecasts predict between 13 to 19 tropical storms and 6 to 10 hurricanes for the year. Their emphasis on preparedness highlights the importance of early planning for community safety and effective emergency response.
Historical Context
The forecasting for 2025 is based on the accumulated cyclone energy (ACE), which measures the intensity of tropical systems. This year’s ACE is expected to be slightly higher than the historical average observed over the past 30 years. Past hurricanes, including notable storms like Beryl and Helene, have demonstrated that the impacts of such weather can extend significantly inland, affecting areas well away from coastal regions.
In light of these anticipated conditions, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management is encouraging preparedness initiatives from May 12 to 16, 2025. Meteorologists recommend that families begin restocking emergency supplies and developing family plans to ensure safety when storms threaten the area.
As the state prepares for the hurricane season, residents are reminded of the importance of staying informed and prepared. With predictions leaning towards an active season, making plans and taking proactive measures will be essential for minimizing risks associated with severe weather.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Patch: Explosive Development Risk as VA Hurricane Season Nears
- Wikipedia: Hurricane
- Fox Weather: Fairfax County Weather Impacts
- Google Search: Hurricane season 2025
- 13 News Now: Hurricane Season Virginia-North Carolina Risk 2025
- Google Scholar: Hurricane Preparedness
- Alexandria Living Magazine: Hurricane Forecast for Virginia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- WDBJ7: State Emergency Officials Urging Virginia Residents to Prepare for Hurricane Season
- Google News: Virginia hurricane season 2025
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
