Video above: Tracking the Tropics | A look back at the 2024 hurricane season

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) -- Researchers at Colorado State University are predicting an above-average hurricane season for 2025.

CSU released its long-range forecast about two months before the season is set to begin. Especially warm ocean temperatures are expected to fuel these storms.

"Given the combined hurricane-favorable signals of a warm Atlantic and the unlikelihood of El
Niño, the CSU forecast team is predicting an above-normal season," CSU researchers wrote in their report.

Using models based on decades of climate trends, CSU researchers predicted the Atlantic basin will see 17 named storms, nine of those being hurricanes. Four of those hurricanes are predicted to be Category 3, 4, or 5, otherwise known as major hurricanes.

Researchers projected an above-average chance for major hurricanes to make landfall along the continental U.S. and in the Caribbean. Additionally, CSU predicts named storms will be present in the Atlantic for 85 days of the season, which includes 35 days of hurricanes and nine major hurricane days.

Researchers urge everyone not to read too far into the initial forecast, as it is likely to change as we get closer to hurricane season.

Regardless of the long-range hurricane forecast, residents should get prepared ahead of hurricane season. Make an action plan with your family, gather essential supplies and make sure your home is prepared for a potential storm.

“It takes only one storm near you to make this an active season for you,” professor Michael Bell said.

CSU will release updated forecasts on June 11, July 9 and Aug. 6

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