The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) is predicting a below normal Tropical Atlantic Hurricane Season in 2026.
Forecasters say this should be in the range of eight to 14 named storms, with three to six expected to become hurricanes, including one to three developing into major hurricanes. An average season has 14 named storms with seven hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a 70 per cent confidence rating in these predictions. There is a 55 per cent chance of a below normal season and a ten per cent chance of it being above normal.
A number of contrasting factors – including the development and intensification of El Niño, as well as slightly warmer ocean temperatures and weaker than average trade winds – are all expected to contribute to this. El Niño conditions tend to support less tropical storms and hurricanes, while warmer ocean temperatures and low winds support a more active year.
“Although El Niño’s impact in the Atlantic Basin can often suppress hurricane development, there is still uncertainty in how each season will unfold,” said NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham. “That is why it’s essential to review your hurricane preparedness plan now. It only takes one storm to make for a very bad season.”
The Centre is relying heavily on its equipment, which has integrated Artificial Intelligence models.
The Tropical Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
The named storms for 2026 are: Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Leah, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky, and Wilfred. (PR/SAT)
