Active Pacific Hurricane Season Linked to Strong El Niño
The Pacific hurricane season has been unusually active, with 15 named storms and six hurricanes, including four major hurricanes, as of September 9, 2026. This above-normal activity is attributed to climate change and a strong El Niño, which has warmed waters in the Equatorial Pacific. Recent storms, such as Hurricane Lowell, brought heavy rains, high seas, and storm-force winds to the Hawaiian Islands. Additionally, two new regions in the Pacific Ocean have been identified with low to medium odds for tropical formation, alongside a newly formed tropical depression. The National Hurricane Center has also introduced storm surge forecast products for Hawaii this season, reflecting the increasing risks posed by these storms.