2026 Hurricane Forecast Predicts a Quieter Season
Two big forecasts for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season have come out. Both expect slightly fewer storms than usual. AccuWeather predicts 11 to 16 named storms. Colorado State University (CSU) predicts 13 named storms. The long-term average is 14 storms per year. The hurricane season starts on June 1 and ends on November 30. The strongest months are August, September, and October.
The main reason for fewer storms is the return of El Niño. El Niño is a weather pattern. It happens when the Pacific Ocean warms up near the equator. Strong winds high in the air then make it harder for hurricanes to form in the Atlantic. The Climate Prediction Center says El Niño is likely to arrive between May and July. But scientists say the season can still surprise people. Warm waters near the coast could create storms quickly.
Even with fewer storms expected, scientists tell Americans to be ready. AccuWeather expects three to five storms to hit the United States. Areas with the highest risk are the Gulf Coast and the Carolinas. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has named May 3 to May 9 as Hurricane Preparedness Week. People should check their insurance, plan how to leave their homes safely, and store food and water before the season begins.
