The Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to produce between five and nine hurricanes, including up to four that could become major storms.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says about 10-16 named storms are expected for the season, which started last Friday and runs to November 30.

An average season typically brings 12 named storms, of which six become hurricanes, including three major ones.

There is a 35% chance of an above-normal season, a 40% probability of a near-normal season and a 25% prospect of a below-normal season.

Fitch Ratings says US insurers are financially strong enough to cope with significant catastrophe events, holding a record $US765 billion ($1.01 billion) in shareholder surplus.

A large portion of the $US80 billion ($106 billion) in insured losses arising from hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria last year was absorbed by offshore reinsurers, alternative capital and the US National Flood Insurance Program.