UPDATE: CSU Further Lowers Predicted Number of Named Storms for 2026 Hurricane Season
CSU now expects 9 named storms, 4 hurricanes and 1 major hurricane, citing Super El Niño as a factor that could suppress Atlantic activity.
- On Wednesday, Colorado State University researchers lowered their 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast, now predicting 9 named storms, 4 hurricanes, and 1 major hurricane.
- Senior Research Scientist Philip Klotzbach cited strengthening El Niño as the dominant factor, explaining it increases vertical wind shear that disrupts developing storms.
- The forecast calls for an Accumulated Cyclone Energy index of 50, roughly 40% of the long-term average—the lowest Atlantic value since 2013. Klotzbach noted conditions mirror past seasons like 2015 and 2009.
- Despite the lower forecast, forecasters warn that below-normal activity does not guarantee safety; Tropical Storm Arthur brought record-breaking rainfall to Louisiana in June.
- The report estimates a 17% chance of a major U.S. hurricane landfall, well below the 43% average, with the next forecast update scheduled for August 5.
29 Articles
29 Articles
Expect less hurricane activity in 2026 according to revised predictions from CSU
FPREN | By Audrey Shirley Researchers at the Colorado State University have issued their newest 2026 hurricane season predictions. They now predict a well-below average number of named storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes in the Atlantic basin this year. This update reflects a downward trend in expected storm activity. In April, their outlook predicted 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5). Now, those nu…
Atlantic hurricane season forecast updated due to El Niño
Colorado State University, one of the 2 organizations that make Atlantic hurricane season forecasts, has now revised its forecast downward for 2026. The post Atlantic hurricane season forecast updated due to El Niño first appeared on EarthSky.
Colorado State lowers Atlantic hurricane forecast, expects well below-normal season
Colorado State University has lowered its forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season and now expects well below-normal activity, citing a strengthening El Niño that is likely to suppress storm formation during the peak of the season. The updated forecast released on Wednesday calls for 9 named storms, including 4 hurricanes and 1 major hurricane. That is down from Colorado State’s April forecast of 13 named storms and its June forecast of 11 nam…
CSU Forecasts Quieter Atlantic Hurricane Season as El Niño Strengthens
Colorado State University (CSU) researchers further reduced their forecast for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season on Wednesday, saying they now expect a well below-normal season as strengthening El Niño conditions are projected to suppress storm development during the peak months. The university’s Tropical Cyclones, Radar, Atmospheric Modeling and Software team now forecasts 9 named storms, 4 hurricanes and 1 major hurricane for the Atlantic bas…
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