The Atlantic hurricane season has been unusually quiet so far, but forecasters are watching two areas of potential tropical development in the Atlantic over the coming week.
The National Hurricane Center said Saturday that it is monitoring the two systems, while adding that both currently have a low chance of becoming tropical cyclones. Neither system is considered an immediate threat to the U.S.
The update comes as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season enters its historically busier stretch. The season typically peaks between mid-August and mid-October, with Sept. 10 considered the traditional high point.
So far this year, the National Hurricane Center has assigned names to just two tropical storms, Arthur and Bertha. Both formed in the Gulf of Mexico.
The slow start is the quietest since 2009, according to hurricane expert Michael Lowry.
What are the two systems the hurricane center is watching?
Neither system is considered an immediate threat to the U.S. The hurricane center will continue to monitor both areas as conditions evolve.
A slow season, for now
The lack of activity does not mean the rest of the season will remain quiet. Colorado State University is forecasting nine named storms this year, including four hurricanes and one major hurricane. NOAA's initial forecast called for eight to 14 named storms, including three to six hurricanes.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs through Nov. 30, leaving several months for conditions to change and additional storms to form.
Contributing: USA TODAY reporter Dinah Voyle Pulvers
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com, or on X @athompsonUSAT.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hurricane forecasters are watching 2 potential systems in Atlantic
