Big numbers likely this year: The outlook issued on Thursday calls for 24 named storms, 11 of which will become hurricanes and six of which will reach Category 3 status or stronger.
Read MoreThe latest hurricane and tropical storm information by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Read MoreHurricane Earl continues to strengthen Wednesday and could become a major hurricane by week's end, according to the National Hurricane Center, as it nears Bermuda before pushing out to sea.
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