A Storm starts as a Tropical Depression and moves on to become a Tropical Storm before it is given a name. Once a storm is named, preparations for the possible hurricane should be well under way.
| Hurricane Names for 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Arthur | Bertha | Cristobal |
| Dolly | Edouard | Fay |
| Gonzalo | Hanna | Isaias |
| Josephine | Kyle | Leah |
| Marco | Nana | Omar |
| Paulette | Rene | Sally |
| Teddy | Vicky | Wilfred |
2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA’s National Weather Service predicts the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season will likely be below normal, with a 55% chance of below-average activity, a 35% chance of near-normal activity, and only a 10% chance of an above-normal season. The outlook forecasts 8–14 named storms, including 3–6 hurricanes and 1–3 major hurricanes, compared to the average of 14 named storms and seven hurricanes.
NOAA officials emphasized that despite the lower forecast, the agency is using advanced technologies such as AI-based weather models, drones, and next-generation satellites to improve real-time storm tracking, forecasting accuracy, and public safety warnings for communities in potential storm paths.
Preparing early is essential for staying safe throughout the hurricane season, as storms can develop quickly and leave little time to gather supplies or secure property. Families are encouraged to create emergency plans, stock up on food, water, medications, and other necessities, and stay informed through reliable weather updates and official alerts. Taking precautions before a storm threatens can help reduce risks, protect property, and ensure people are ready to respond if dangerous weather conditions arise.
NOAA 2026 Hurricane Season Probability (NOAA)
The 2026 hurricane season is expected to be below normal, driven by a combination of factors that favor tropical storm development. These include ongoing ENSO-neutral conditions, above-average ocean temperatures, forecasts of weak wind shear, and the potential for increased activity from the West African Monsoon—a key source of Atlantic storm formation. The Atlantic Basin remains in an era of heightened hurricane activity, marked by elevated ocean heat content and weaker trade winds. The warmer waters provide more energy to fuel storms, while reduced wind shear allows systems to strengthen with less interference. Additionally, this season may see a northward shift in the West African Monsoon, which could lead to more frequent and intense tropical waves—often the precursors to the strongest and longest-lived Atlantic hurricanes.
Source: NOAA.GOV
Named Storms
8-14
Hurricanes
3-6
Major Hurricanes
1-3
| Forecast Parameters | CSU Forcast for 2026 | Average for 1991-2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Named Storms | 17 | 14.4 |
| Named Storm Days | 85 | 69.4 |
| Hurricanes | 9 | 7.2 |
| Hurricane Days | 35 | 27.0 |
| Major Hurricanes | 4 | 3.2 |
| Major Hurricane Days | 9 | 7.4 |
| Accumulated Cyclone Energy+ | 155 | 123 |
| ACE West of 60 degrees longitude | 93 | 73 |
Source: Almanac.com
Below are some Hurricane Season Preparedness Tips courtesy of the ODPEM.
- Check thoroughly the roof of your house, hurricane shutters, hooks and latches and repair where necessary.
- Make sure that galvanized sheeting on the roof of your house is properly fastened.
- Keep in stock extra plastic bags and sheets of plastic. Plastic is essential to prevent important documents, paintings, equipment and furniture from getting wet.
- Keep handy a supply of lumber, plywood, timber, etc. for battening down purposes.
- Trim trees that touch power lines or hang over the house and other buildings.
- Make sure that emergency cooking facilities such as coal stoves are in good working condition as these may be necessary.
- Make sure you have a supply of kerosene and coal. Keep coal dry by wrapping in a plastic bag or other waterproof material.
- Latch down securely all small buildings in the yard such as outdoor kitchens, pit latrines, tool sheds, barns, etc.
- Store extra food, especially things that can be eaten without cooking or which need very little preparation. Electricity may be off during a hurricane, leaving you without refrigeration.
- Place emergency food supply in a waterproof container and store in a closed box, cupboard or trunk.
- Make sure you have emergency equipment in your home. These include water boots, raincoats, flashlights, batteries, portable radio, kerosene lamps and matches.
- Have simple first-aid equipment such as iodine, bandages, eye lotion, etc. at home.
- Have a family disaster plan.
- Know your evacuation route.
- Know the nearest shelters and other critical facilities such as police station and health centres.
