Below-Average Hurricane Season Forecast for Atlantic in 2026
Researchers at Colorado State University have released their first major outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting a near- or below-average season. The forecast anticipates 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes, which is slightly less than the long-term seasonal average. The reduced activity is attributed to a developing El Niño, which typically results in quieter Atlantic hurricane seasons due to increased atmospheric shear and subsidence over the Atlantic. The forecast suggests a 43% chance of a hurricane passing within 50 miles of Florida, with lower probabilities for other states such as Texas and Massachusetts. Despite the below-average forecast, experts caution that even a single storm can have devastating impacts. 
