The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an above-average Atlantic hurricane season from June 1 through Nov. 30.

A Northeastern researcher says the forecast of six to 10 hurricanes with winds of at least 74 mph — including three to five major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher — only tells part of the story.

The traditional Saffir-Simpson scale categorizes hurricanes on a 1 to 5 rating system based on maximum sustained wind speed, with a Category 5 bearing winds of at least 157 mph.

But as hurricanes intensify in severity, it might be time to rethink the rating system, says Auroop Ganguly, Northeastern distinguished professor of civil and environmental engineering.

Read more from Northeastern Global News.

Satellite Image: NOAA