This Atlantic hurricane season is looking like a dud, but there will be a price to pay
Summary
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be quieter than usual, with fewer and less intense storms so far. Experts link this to a strong El Niño weather pattern, which tends to reduce hurricane activity in the Atlantic but can cause other major weather effects worldwide.Key Facts
- So far in 2026, there have been two named storms, Arthur and Bertha, which passed near Houston but were not very strong.
- The overall storm activity, measured by “accumulated cyclone energy,” is less than 30% of the normal level for this time of year.
- The Atlantic hurricane season usually increases in strength around early August, but forecasts show a quiet period ahead.
- Forecaster Phil Klotzbach reduced his storm count prediction from 13 named storms and 6 hurricanes to 9 named storms and 4 hurricanes for the season.
- The main reason for fewer storms is a rapidly strengthening El Niño in the Pacific Ocean, which increases wind shear over the Atlantic and weakens hurricanes.
- El Niño is expected to be very strong this year, possibly the strongest in about 100 years.
- A strong El Niño typically lowers hurricane chances in the Atlantic but can cause significant weather disruptions in other parts of the world.
- While fewer storms are expected, some strong hurricanes may still form later in the season.
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