Study: Global warming could reduce number of hurricanes

AP
Tuesday, May 27, 2008

A new study says global warming could reduce the number of hurricanes that form in the Atlantic over the next century.

It was led by a hurricane expert at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and presents the theory that global warming could increase wind shear over the Atlantic in the coming decades and lead to fewer hurricanes.

Wind shear is produced by the jet stream and it can knock down tropical storms as they try to form.

The latest study concludes global warming could result in 27 percent fewer tropical storms in the Atlantic and 18 percent fewer hurricanes during the 21st Century.

However, the study also says global warming would add fuel to big hurricanes and make them stronger.

Florida's state meteorologist says you should take this study with a grain of salt.

Ben Nelson there is an ongoing debate among meteorologists about how global warming will impact Atlantic hurricanes and the final verdict is still out.