Kicking off National Hurricane Preparedness Week, the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) announced its predictions for the 2006 Hurricane Season on Monday. Forecasters indicate the chance of strong hurricanes hitting along the Atlantic Coast of the United States is about 80 percent above normal for 2006. The north Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is expecting an active season predicting 13 to 16 named tropical storms with eight to 10 becoming hurricanes. Of those, four to six could become major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher.

In 2005, of an unprecedented 28 storms and 15 hurricanes, with four major hurricanes hitting the United States.

“Although NOAA is not forecasting a repeat of last year’s season, the potential for hurricanes striking the U.S. is high,” said retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator.

In the month’s following last year’s major hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma the Red Cross served more than 50 million meals and snacks, lent financial aid to more than 1 million people and had more than 3 million overnight stays in its shelters. As the recovery efforts continue in the gulf coast region, the Red Cross urges everyone to be prepared for what storms this year’s hurricane season may bring.

“Whether we face an active hurricane season, like this year, or a below-normal season, the crucial message for every person is the same: prepare, prepare, prepare,” said Max Mayfield, director of the NOAA Hurricane Center. “One hurricane hitting where you live is enough to make it a bad season.”

Hurricane Preparedness Week runs from May 21 through May 27 with the goal of providing the public with useful knowledge about hurricane hazards that can be used to take action and prepare. By knowing your vulnerability and preparing yourself and your loved ones, you can greatly reduce some of the devastating effects of a major hurricane.