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Ten Atlantic hurricanes may come this year, after the costliest hurricane season ever

Early forecasts indicate that the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season, which starts on June 1, will have more storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes than normal

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Puerto Rico lies flooded one week after Hurricane Maria struck in September 2017. Predictions for 2018 suggest more storms than usual - though hopefully nothing as severe as last year. Photo: Los Angeles Times via TNS

Last year was the the costliest Atlantic hurricane season in history - and while it may not be as devastating this year, early indication suggest there will be more storms and hurricanes than normal.

The onslaught of storms in 2017 left deep wounds across the Caribbean and southern United States that have not yet healed. But, ready or not, the 2018 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1.

As it has done every year since 1984, Colorado State University (CSU) has released its initial predictions for the upcoming season. 

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Its forecast is for a total of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes, which is slightly above the long-term average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.

Last year, there were 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes, and six major hurricanes. These 2018 predictions will be updated on May 31, July 2 and August 2.

A man walks on a street covered in debris after hurricane Irma hurricane passed on the French island of Saint-Martin, near Marigot on September 8, 2017. Photo: AFP
A man walks on a street covered in debris after hurricane Irma hurricane passed on the French island of Saint-Martin, near Marigot on September 8, 2017. Photo: AFP
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