A Below-Normal Forecast Does Not Mean Below-Normal Risk: ADRA Inter-America Is Ready
The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued its outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, forecasting a below-normal year with 8 to 14 named storms, 3 to 6 of which may become hurricanes, and 1 to 3 potentially reaching major hurricane status (Category 3 or above). NOAA attributes the expected reduced activity largely to the anticipated development and intensification of El Niño conditions during the season, along with slightly warmer-than-normal Atlantic Ocean temperatures.