Atlantic hurricane season forecast to be milder than normal thanks to El Niño
The NOAA predicts a below-average hurricane season for the US in 2026, with forecasts of eight to 14 named storms. Among these, one to three hurricanes may reach category 3 to 5. Experts warn that the US is unprepared for storms due to staffing cuts in weather services under the Trump administration.
- ▪The forecast indicates a 55% chance of a below-normal hurricane season.
- ▪Forecasters expect three to six storms to develop into category 1 hurricanes.
- ▪There is a 98% chance of El Niño conditions occurring later this season.
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Of the eight to 14 named storms, one to three hurricanes are expected to become category 3 to 5, forecasters expect. Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/ReutersView image in fullscreenOf the eight to 14 named storms, one to three hurricanes are expected to become category 3 to 5, forecasters expect. Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/ReutersUS newsUS will see below-average 2026 hurricane season with up to 14 named storms, Noaa predictsForecast came amid warning that US was unprepared for storms with staffing cuts under Trump administration Sign up for the Breaking News US newsletter email Thu 21 May 2026 12.10 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe US will see a below-normal hurricane season in 2026, federal government scientists said on Thursday, predicting eight to 14 named storms with winds at…
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