NOAA expects a quieter 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, urges early preparedness

NOAA’s 2026 outlook calls for a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season (June 1–Nov 30) with 8–14 named storms, 3–6 hurricanes, and 1–3 major hurricanes, aided by developing El Niño and warmer Atlantic conditions with weaker trade winds. Forecasters assign about a 55% chance of below-normal activity (35% near-normal, 10% above-normal) and highlight new tech—AI-based models, drones, enhanced forecast cones, and expanded products for Hawaii and inland areas—to improve forecasts, emphasizing that preparedness should begin now.