Forecasters Predict Quieter Hurricane Season for 2026

Colorado State University expects below-average storm activity in the Atlantic this year.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:26am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a stormy, turbulent sky over a calm, expansive ocean. The scene conveys the overwhelming, sublime scale of the natural world, with any physical structures or objects dwarfed by the powerful weather conditions.The looming threat of hurricanes hangs over the Florida coastline, as forecasters predict a quieter but still potentially dangerous 2026 storm season.Boca Raton Today

According to the latest forecast from Colorado State University's renowned tropical weather research team, the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than normal. CSU is predicting 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and just 2 major hurricanes, all below the historical averages. The key factor behind the quieter outlook is the anticipated transition from La Niña to a moderate or strong El Niño, which would increase wind shear and make it harder for storms to develop and intensify.

Why it matters

After a very active 2025 season that included three Category 5 hurricanes, the prospect of a quieter 2026 season provides some relief for South Florida residents who are still recovering. However, forecasters caution that it only takes one major storm making landfall to make any season feel very active, so preparedness remains crucial.

The details

CSU researchers note that sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central tropical Atlantic are also running slightly cooler than normal, further reducing the potential for storm formation. While the overall outlook is for below-average activity, the team says there is still a chance of major hurricane landfalls along the U.S. coastline and in the Caribbean.

  • The initial 2026 Atlantic hurricane season forecast was released on April 10, 2026.
  • Additional forecast updates are scheduled for June 10, July 8, and August 5, 2026.

The players

Colorado State University

A renowned tropical weather research team that provides annual forecasts for the Atlantic hurricane season.

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What’s next

Residents should continue to monitor the hurricane forecasts and prepare their homes and families for the upcoming season, even with the expectation of below-average activity.

The takeaway

While the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than normal, it only takes one major storm to cause significant damage. South Florida residents should remain vigilant and prepared, as forecasts can change and the potential for a devastating hurricane landfall still exists.