"For the 2006 north Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA is predicting 13 to 16 named storms, with eight to 10 becoming hurricanes, of which four to six could become 'major' hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher," said NOAA Administrator Conrad Lautenbacher.

On average, the North Atlantic hurricane season produces 11 named storms, with six becoming hurricanes, including two major hurricanes.

ABC News noted NOAA didn't do too well in predicting the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season:

-- In May 2005, NOAA predicted the summer Atlantic would see 12 to 15 named tropical storms. There were 28.

-- It predicted seven to nine storms would become hurricanes, with winds of at least 74 mph. Fifteen did.

-- It predicted three to five of the hurricanes would be "major," with winds of at least 111 mph. Seven became major, with six striking the United States.

The North Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1-Nov. 30.

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