Millions told to 'plan NOW' as 2026 hurricane season is just days away

The official hurricane outlook for the 2026 season warns that millions of Americans should review preparedness plans immediately. The Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be below normal, but past seasons with fewer storms have still produced devastating Category 5 hurricanes that made landfall. Multiple weather factors are expected to influence storm development, including strengthening El Niño, unusually warm Atlantic waters, and weaker-than-average trade winds. NOAA notes that El Niño can suppress hurricane activity in the Atlantic, but uncertainty remains about how each season will unfold. The forecast calls for three to six hurricanes with winds above 74 mph and one to three major hurricanes with winds exceeding 111 mph, with the first named storms including Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, and Dolly.

"Although El Niño's impact in the Atlantic Basin can often suppress hurricane development, there is still uncertainty in how each season will unfold. 'That is why it's essential to review your hurricane preparedness plan now. It only takes one storm to make for a very bad season. Preparing now for hurricane season, and not waiting for a storm to threaten, is essential for staying ahead of any storm"

"NOAA said Thursday that although this year's Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be below normal, past seasons with lower-than-average activity have still produced devastating Category 5 storms that made landfall."

"Forecasters said several competing weather patterns are expected to shape this year's season. While El Niño is forecast to strengthen during the coming months, a climate pattern that typically suppresses hurricane activity, unusually warm Atlantic waters and weaker-than-average trade winds could still help fuel storm development."

"NOAA's outlook shows three to six hurricanes with wind speeds above 74mph and one to three major hurricanes with winds exceeding 111mph. The first named Atlantic Tropical Cyclone on the list is Arthur, followed by Bertha, Cristobal and Dolly."

Read at Mail Online