NOAA Predicts Below-Normal 2026 Hurricane Season for New York
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season forecast, predicting a below-normal season due to the influence of an El Niño weather pattern. Initially, NOAA anticipated 8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 hurricanes, and 1 to 3 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). However, the revised outlook now calls for 7 to 13 named storms, 2 to 6 hurricanes, and 0 to 2 major hurricanes. As of early August, only two named storms—Arthur and Bertha—have formed in the Atlantic, while the Pacific has been more active with seven storms and two hurricanes affecting Mexico's Pacific coast. Historically, the Atlantic hurricane season peaks in September, and New York remains at risk for tropical impacts despite the quieter start to the season. (Source: NOAA, Aug. 12, 2026)