Leading hurricane forecasting teams at Colorado State University and NOAA have released early projections for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season that paint a concerning picture. Both organizations predict well above-average activity, with CSU forecasting 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.
The primary drivers behind the alarming forecast include record-warm sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic and the continuation of La Nina conditions, which reduce upper-level wind shear that would otherwise inhibit storm development.
Coastal communities from Texas to Maine are being urged to begin hurricane preparedness now, including reviewing insurance coverage, assembling emergency kits, and familiarizing themselves with local evacuation routes before the season officially begins on June 1.
