Meteorologists say hurricane season may be even quieter than they expected
Colorado State University’s atmospheric scientists have updated their “Forecast for 2026 Hurricane Activity,” lowering the numbers
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Each hurricane season, people turn to scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Colorado State University for that year’s hurricane predictions.
CSU has updated its Atlantic seasonal outlook for the second time this summer, expecting even fewer storms.
The meteorologists originally estimated 13 named storms and six hurricanes, including two major hurricanes.
Now they expect only nine named storms and four hurricanes, with one reaching Category 3 or higher. NOAA’s original outlook aligns with that.
Conditions in the atmosphere influence the likelihood of tropical development, and this year’s El Niño phase has warmed the Pacific Ocean and produced wind variations in the Atlantic Ocean.
Strong Atlantic wind shear limits the chances of a hurricane forming, while a warm Pacific can fuel tropical cyclone formation.
The Pacific basin has already seen a more active season than the Atlantic basin, with four tropical storms so far. The Atlantic has had only Tropical Storm Arthur.
Always be prepared. The TV20 First Alert Weather team will keep you updated via the Hurricane HQ.
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