Early predictions point to an active hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean. Here's what local residents should know.

On Thursday, the pioneers of seasonal hurricane forecasts released their first predictions of what the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season could hold.

Colorado State University, a school renowned for its hurricane research, said it expects “above-normal” tropical activity this year. The early-season prediction, released Thursday, stems from warm sea-surface temperatures, and the potential for conditions that kindle tropical activity.