National Hurricane Center Unveils New Forecast Cone Graphic for 2026
The National Hurricane Center is introducing a revamped track forecast cone graphic for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, starting June 1, 2026. This new graphic aims to enhance communication about storm risks and probabilities, addressing previous misunderstandings associated with the 'cone of uncertainty' used since 2002. The updated version includes inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings for the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, shaded with bright colors to better convey wind risks. The graphic will also be interactive, allowing users to zoom, pan, and save images. The changes are part of a continuous improvement process to ensure the public and emergency managers receive accurate and comprehensive information about potential storm impacts.