NOAA Forecasts 8 to 14 Named Storms for 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its official 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook just days before the season begins on June 1.

NOAA is forecasting a below-normal hurricane season, with a 55% chance of below-average activity due to atmospheric and oceanic conditions expected to suppress storm development.

Forecasters predict 8 to 14 named storms and fewer storms than the seasonal average of 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes. 

NOAA says new technology will play a major role in monitoring and forecasting storms during the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season.