National Hurricane Center Updates Forecast Cone for 2026 Season
The National Hurricane Center is introducing a revised track forecast cone graphic for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, starting June 1, 2026. This new graphic, which has undergone a two-year experimental phase, aims to improve public understanding of storm risks. The updated cone will feature ellipses instead of concentric circles, reflecting a 90% probability that the storm's center will remain within the cone. This change is intended to enhance forecast accuracy and confidence. Additionally, the graphic will include inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings for the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, highlighted with bright colors to better convey wind risks and hazards extending beyond the cone. The goal is to provide a more comprehensive picture of potential impacts, encouraging the public to consider the broader risks associated with hurricanes. 
