Hawaii Could See Rain as Norbert Remnants Move In

Tropical Depression Norbert has weakened into a remnant low after dry air disrupted its development. The remnants could reach the vicinity of Hawaii between Thursday and Friday, bringing widespread rainfall of 1–2 inches, with localized totals of 2–3 inches. Northeastern parts of the islands could also see stronger easterly winds and increased surf. Dry air is also disrupting former Tropical Depression Fifteen-E, briefly slowing tropical activity across the Pacific amid an active season influenced by El Niño.

Peak hurricane season arrives amid El Nino effects

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has reached its peak, coinciding with strong El Nino conditions. Historically, this period sees the highest tropical activity, though El Nino has suppressed storm formation in the Gulf, Caribbean, and Atlantic due to increased wind shear. So far, five named storms have formed, none exceeding 50 mph (80 km/h) winds. Forecasts from NOAA predict 8-14 named storms this season, with 3-6 becoming hurricanes and 1-3 reaching Category 3 or higher. AccuWeather's forecast is slightly higher, predicting 11-16 named storms, 4-7 hurricanes, and 2-4 major hurricanes. Despite the reduced activity, El Nino summers have historically produced all Category 5 hurricanes to make U.S. landfall, leaving the potential for severe storms in the remaining months of the season.

Atlantic Storm Odds Rise as El Niño Strengthens

Tropical development odds are increasing for an area of low pressure in the subtropical Atlantic, which now has a medium chance of developing over the next seven days. The system could enter a brief period of more favorable conditions later this week, but forecast models disagree on its potential. It is not currently a threat to the U.S., while Bermuda is advised to monitor the system. Strong El Niño conditions continue to suppress broader Atlantic activity.

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El Niño May Bring Wetter Winter to U.S. Southeast, California

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has been notably quiet, with only five named storms and no hurricanes reported so far, according to the National Hurricane Center. Experts attribute this to the strengthening El Niño conditions, which have a 90% chance of becoming a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter, per the Climate Prediction Center. El Niño, the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity while increasing storm activity in the eastern and central Pacific. Meteorologists predict that El Niño could lead to wetter-than-average conditions in California and the U.S. Southeast this winter, potentially alleviating drought conditions in these regions. Additionally, El Niño years are often associated with higher global temperatures, and 2027 could potentially become the warmest year on record due to residual heat energy from the current El Niño phase.

Post-Tropical Cyclone Norbert dissipates near Hawaii

Post-Tropical Cyclone Norbert has transitioned into a remnant low, according to the National Hurricane Center's final advisory issued at 5:00 AM HST on September 15, 2026. The system is located approximately 780 miles (1255 km) east of Hilo, Hawaii, with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph (55 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 1007 mb (29.74 inches). Norbert is moving westward at 13 mph (20 km/h) and is expected to continue this motion before dissipating entirely by Wednesday. No coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect, and the cyclone poses no direct threat to land. This marks the conclusion of public advisories for Norbert, with further updates available through High Seas Forecasts issued by the National Weather Service.

Tropical Depression 15-E Expected to Become Tropical Storm Odalys

Tropical Depression 15-E, currently active in the Pacific, is forecasted to intensify into Tropical Storm Odalys later today. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Norbert, which had been active in the same region, is weakening and no longer poses a threat to Hawaii. Meteorologists Craig Herrera and Britta Merwin from FOX Weather provided updates on these developments, highlighting the dynamic activity in the Pacific Ocean. The transition of Tropical Depression 15-E into a named storm marks a continuation of the active tropical weather season in the region. The situation is being closely monitored for further updates.

Odalys Could Form as Norbert Weakens in the Pacific

The Eastern Pacific remains active as Tropical Depression 15-E could become Tropical Storm Odalys, while Norbert continues to weaken. Depression 15-E was moving west with 35 mph winds Monday, just below tropical-storm strength, and could receive the Odalys name later in the day. However, dry air may limit its development. Norbert, meanwhile, is battling dry air and increasing wind shear and is expected to become a post-tropical remnant by Wednesday. It no longer threatens Hawaii, although larger swells could reach the islands.

El Niño Creates Stark Atlantic-Pacific Hurricane Contrast

A strengthening El Niño has significantly influenced tropical cyclone activity, creating a sharp contrast between the Atlantic and Pacific basins. As of Saturday, September 12, 2026, the Atlantic hurricane basin has experienced an unusually quiet season, with only five named tropical storms and no hurricanes recorded during its statistical peak. Meanwhile, the Pacific Ocean has become a prolific generator of storms, showcasing the impact of El Niño on global weather patterns. This phenomenon is notable for its ability to suppress Atlantic hurricane activity while enhancing storm development in the Pacific. The data highlights one of the most striking disparities in modern tropical cyclone records. (Source time: not specified.)

Atlantic Eyes 2 Tropical Threats Amid El Niño Suppression

Atlantic tropical activity could increase later this month as forecasters monitor two areas for possible development despite strong El Niño conditions that have suppressed the basin. The higher-risk area is several hundred miles southeast of Bermuda, where development could be possible from Sept. 17–21 as lower wind shear and greater humidity provide more favorable conditions. A second threat could emerge near the northern Gulf Coast later this week or into the weekend if an upper-level system slows over warm Gulf waters. Only five named storms have formed so far, compared with an average of nine by mid-September, and no hurricanes have developed. If the Atlantic remains hurricane-free through Sept. 21, 2026 could set a record for the latest first hurricane of the season.

Norbert weakens near Hawaii amid dry air disruption

Tropical Depression Norbert is expected to weaken into a remnant low-pressure system before reaching Hawaii, according to Fox Weather. A surge of dry air is preventing Norbert from intensifying further, offering the islands a temporary break from the recent uptick in Pacific tropical activity. This dry air is also impacting Tropical Depression 15-E, which was initially forecast to become the next named storm in the Pacific hurricane season. The season has been notably active, but this brief lull provides a momentary reprieve for the region. Source time: not specified.