Guide Note

Hurricane forecaster William Gray predicted the formation of seven Atlantic hurricanes during the 2008 season which began on June 1. He also predicted three of the seven would be severe.

Fast Facts

1. William Gray predicted 7 hurricanes and 13 named storms
2. At least one hurricane predicted to hit U.S. coast
3. Gray's predictions are watched closely by emergency responders
4. Last hurricane season, Gray initially forecast nine hurricanes, but only six actually formed

"We believe that the Atlantic basin is still in an active hurricane cycle. This active cycle is expected to continue at least for another decade or two. After that, we're likely to enter a quieter Atlantic major hurricane period."—William Gray¹