It could be stormy out there this summer.

That’s the message from meteorologists who are predicting a “very active” Atlantic hurricane season.

NOAA National Weather Service meteorologists on Thursday said they’re forecasting above-normal hurricane activity this season, which starts on June 1.

NOAA is predicting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher — including four to seven major hurricanes with winds of at least 111 mph.

“All ingredients are in place for a very active hurricane season,” posted Ken Graham, the director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “It’s a reason to be concerned, but not alarmed.

“Use this time to your advantage,” Graham added. “Take the time now to put together a plan & preparedness kit so that you’re ready for the season ahead.”

The predicted above-normal activity is because of: near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, and reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear. These factors tend to favor tropical storm formation.

Climate change is warming oceans, and melting ice on land — leading to sea level rise, which increases the risk of storm surge, officials said.

“Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks. “Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail.

“Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow,” Hooks added.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency posted, “Residents, visitors, and business should begin to prepare. Stay Informed; Know Your Evac Zone; Create a Family Emergency Plan and an Emergency Kit.”

A list of the 2024 Atlantic tropical cyclone names as selected by the World Meteorological Organization. The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. (NOAA image)