As hurricane season kicks off this June, there's one message coming in loud and clear from experts: get ready. The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be a busy one, and if you have assets along the Gulf Coast, Southeastern U.S., or the Caribbean, now is the time to prepare.

 What Are Experts Saying?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an above-normal season this year. Their forecast includes:

• 13 to 19 named storms
• 6 to 10 hurricanes
• 3 to 5 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher)

There’s about a 60% chance we’ll see more activity than average, and only a 10% chance that things will be quieter than usual. That’s enough reason to take this seriously.

Other major forecasting groups agree. Colorado State University estimates 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes. Their forecast puts the 2025 season at about 125% of normal activity. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Risk (TSR) and the UK Met Office are projecting similar numbers.

What’s Fueling This Active Season?

Three major factors are in play:

1. Unusually warm Atlantic waters – Storms feed off warm water, and this year, sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean are well above normal.
2. Neutral ENSO conditions – The climate system that governs El Niño and La Niña is currently in a neutral phase, which means wind shear is low. That gives storms more room to grow.
3. A strong West African monsoon – Many Atlantic hurricanes start as weather disturbances moving off Africa. A strong monsoon increases the chances these become tropical storms.

All of this adds up to a season that could bring not only more storms—but stronger ones.

Hurricane Preparedness for Foreclosure Portfolios: Protecting At-Risk Assets

Vacant or foreclosed properties are especially vulnerable during hurricanes. Without occupants to report damage or take emergency precautions, even minor storm impacts can go unnoticed and escalate into costly repairs or total asset loss. Additionally, delays in assessing damage or initiating claims can affect compliance, timelines for liquidation, and overall portfolio health.

Key Preparedness Actions

• Pre-Storm Inspections: Confirm that windows are secured, roofs are intact, and yards are clear of debris. Secure any loose exterior items that could become projectiles.
• Ensure Insurance is Active and Adequate: Confirm that all REO properties have current hazard and (if required) flood insurance policies. Double-check coverage limits to ensure they align with updated asset valuations.
• Storm Response Vendors on Standby: Line up trusted property preservation or emergency services vendors in advance so your team can respond immediately following a storm.
• Maintain Updated Contact Info and Site Access: Ensure that local field representatives or maintenance teams have current access credentials and updated emergency contacts.

While forecasts provide valuable insights, the unpredictable nature of hurricanes means it's always best to be prepared. The outlook for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is clear: an above-average number of storms is expected. This season has the potential to be one of the more active in recent years.

📚 Sources

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – NOAA 2025 Outlook
• Colorado State University Tropical Weather & Climate Research – Forecasting Center
• Houston Chronicle – NOAA's Hurricane Forecast Explained
• San Antonio Express-News – West African Monsoon Link to Hurricanes
• CT Insider – Atlantic Hurricane Forecast & Preparedness
• Reuters – Hurricane Season 2025 Predictions