Forecasters are predicting a near normal Atlantic hurricane season with between 12 and 17 storms expected.

But Weather Network meteorologist Doug Gilham cautions no one should let their guard down.

“I think there’s too much attention on the total number of storms. Last year was a good reminder that it’s not the total number of storms out over the ocean. The question is, are we going to have that one high impact storm?”

Gilham pointed to continued warmth in the Atlantic.

“Ocean water temperatures are still fairly warm up the U.S. East Coast and also around Atlantic Canada. So any of the storms that do develop have the threat to maintain intensity outside of the tropics.”

Gilham notes it’s too early to know if a storm will hit Atlantic Canada but he adds all it takes is one storm to make it a high impact season.

Fiona proved to a devastating storm when it hit the region last September and was the costliest and most intense tropical or post-tropical cyclone to hit Canada on record.