US will see below-average 2026 hurricane season with up to 14 named storms, Noaa predicts
Summary
The US government predicts a below-normal 2026 hurricane season with eight to 14 named storms, including some strong hurricanes. Scientists expect that El Niño conditions will affect storm activity, leading to fewer hurricanes in the Atlantic but more in the Pacific.Key Facts
- NOAA forecasts 8 to 14 named storms in the US for 2026, with one to three major hurricanes (Category 3-5).
- There is a 55% chance that the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season will be below normal.
- El Niño is likely to develop this season, which usually reduces Atlantic storms but increases Pacific hurricanes.
- In the eastern Pacific, NOAA expects above-normal activity with 15 to 22 named storms and up to 14 hurricanes.
- Experts warn that budget cuts under President Trump’s administration have reduced staff and equipment for hurricane forecasting.
- These cuts may lower the accuracy of weather models and limit emergency management capabilities.
- Other forecasts also predict an average to below-average hurricane season in the Atlantic for 2026.
- Despite the below-average forecast, officials advise people to stay prepared for hurricanes.
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