UA scientists invent better method for predicting hurricanes

PHOENIX — University of Arizona atmospheric scientists have developed a new, improved model to predict hurricanes.

Student Kyle Davis said the university’s model is designed to more accurately predict the number of hurricanes in a given season by combining standard meteorological factors — wind and sea surface temperature — along with the influence of El Nino in a given year. Older models utilized patterns typically displayed by El Nino, which can vary between a three- to seven-year cycle.

The model works for both the North Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. UA said it will attempt to adapt the model for the Pacific Ocean.