El Niño Alters Atlantic Hurricane Forecast, Reducing Storm Activity
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season forecast has been revised due to the influence of a rapidly strengthening El Niño. AccuWeather now predicts 8 to 11 named storms, 3 to 4 hurricanes, and 1 to 2 major hurricanes, a significant reduction from earlier estimates. El Niño, which is developing in the Pacific, is expected to increase wind shear across the Atlantic, making it harder for tropical systems to form and intensify. However, forecasters warn that the U.S. remains at risk, particularly along the northern and eastern Gulf Coast and the Carolinas, as well as the northeastern Caribbean. Exceptionally warm waters near the U.S. coastline could still fuel tropical systems, raising concerns about rapid intensification. The peak of the hurricane season is expected around September 10, with potential for tropical development continuing into the fall. Hawaii, meanwhile, is recovering from Hurricane Lala and monitoring another developing system southeast of the islands. (Source time: not specified) 
