ENVIRONMENT

NOAA Predicts Below-Average 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season

PUBLISHED May 25, 2026, 11:08 PM ET

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Charlotte, N.C. — On May 21, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a forecast projecting a below-average 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, estimating 8–14 named storms, 3–6 hurricanes and 1–3 major hurricanes for the June 1–Nov. 30 period; local meteorologists relayed the outlook while noting continued individual storm risk. Mobile and other coastal communities this week are being urged to maintain preparedness as officials and emergency managers plan outreach events, including a scheduled East Haven preparedness session at Cosey Beach on Tuesday; forecasters cited a developing El Niño as a suppression factor while warning that a single landfalling storm could still cause major impacts during the season.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Signs of a developing El Niño detected in the Pacific, noted by meteorologists.
May 21: NOAA issues its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook predicting below-average activity.
Colorado State University releases a near-normal to below-normal season prediction around late May.
Late May/this week: Local emergency managers schedule preparedness events, including East Haven at Cosey Beach.
June 1: 2026 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins and will run through Nov. 30.

News Intelligence

Even with a below-average hurricane season predicted, one storm can still cause significant damage. If you're in a coastal community, stay vigilant. Attend local preparedness events like the one at Cosey Beach. It's about your safety and your community's resilience.

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Who Benefited

Emergency management agencies, meteorological centers, and public outreach organizations benefited from clearer seasonal projections that support resource allocation, outreach scheduling, and preparedness planning for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Who Impacted

Coastal communities and residents remain vulnerable because a single impactful storm can cause severe damage even during a below-average season, requiring sustained preparedness and potential evacuations.

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