Lower Hurricane Predictions for 2007

Hurricane forecasters are predicting less storms than previously expected. Dr. William Gray of Colorado State University is lowering the forecast from nine to eight hurricanes for 2007.

Among those hurricanes, now only four are expected to be intense, down from five.

Researchers say the lower numbers are a reflection on slightly less favorable conditions for storms in the Atlantic. On average, six hurricanes usually form annually.

In 2005, 15 hurricanes formed in the Atlantic, none reaching the U.S.

The Atlantic storm season runs until November 30.

Statewide Hurricane Exercise Begins