Developing El Niño Increases Hurricane Risk for Hawaii, Southern California, and Mexico
A developing El Niño is expected to significantly impact the Pacific hurricane season, increasing the risk of direct hurricane impacts in Hawaii, Southern California, and parts of Mexico. According to AccuWeather, the Eastern and Central Pacific basins are projected to produce an above-average number of named storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes in 2026. The forecast predicts 17 to 22 named storms, nine to 13 hurricanes, and four to eight major hurricanes in the Eastern Pacific, with six to nine direct impacts on Mexico and Central America. The Central Pacific is expected to see four to seven named storms, two to four hurricanes, and one to three major hurricanes, with one to two direct impacts on Hawaii. The presence of El Niño typically reduces disruptive wind shear, allowing for more tropical development and increasing the risk of rapid intensification. 
