NOAA Forecasts Slightly Below-Average 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season
NOAA issued its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook on Thursday, May 21, 2026, forecasting a slightly below-average season while warning the risk of destructive storms remains high.[1]
Forecasters expect 8 to 14 named storms, including 3 to 6 hurricanes and 1 to 3 major hurricanes between June 1 and November 30.[1] Officials warned that unusually warm Atlantic and Gulf waters raise the odds that at least one very large, destructive hurricane will affect U.S. regions, including inland areas.[1]
Unusually warm Atlantic and Gulf waters this spring helped shape NOAA's outlook.[1] Forecasters said seasonal totals are not the whole story because one storm can still be catastrophic for communities in its path.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Thursday, May 21, 2026, NOAA issued its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook.
- Forecasters expect 8-14 named storms, including 3-6 hurricanes and 1-3 major hurricanes, between June 1 and November 30.
- Officials warned that unusually warm Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico waters increase the odds of at least one very large, destructive hurricane affecting U.S. regions, including inland areas.
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