August 9, 2012 (BOSTON) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 12 to 17 named storms for the remainder of the hurricane season.            

Five to eight of those storms could become hurricanes – with two to three becoming major category three of higher cyclones.            

There have been six named storms so far in the Atlantic – including two hurricanes. August and September are historically the peak months for the Atlantic hurricane season.            

Tropical storm Irene impacted Cape Cod last year – leaving thousands without power for days.            

National Weather Service acting director Laura Furgione says it’s critical for everyone in the possible path of a hurricane to be prepared.            

She also stresses that the most dangerous aspect of a hurricane is inland flooding where most lives are lost.            

Lead forecaster Gerry Bell says there are competing factors this year. They include warmer water favoring storm formation versus the likely development of an ‘El Nino’ which tends to lessen the strength of storms.