US Federal Scientists Predict Below-Normal Hurricane Season for 2026 As the Atlantic hurricane season is set to kick off on June 1, federal government scientists have issued a forecast predicting a below-normal year for storms. With 8-14 named storms expected to form, winds of 39mph (63km/h) or more are anticipated to hit the US shores. The milder-than-usual forecast is attributed to a developing El Niño weather pattern in the central and eastern Pacific. This comes as a welcome relief for a nation still reeling from the devastating effects of past storms, particularly during a period when concerns were raised about the country's preparedness for such events due to staffing cuts under the previous administration.
Forecast came amid warning that US was unprepared for storms with staffing cuts under Trump administrationSign up for the Breaking News US newsletter emailThe US will see a below-normal hurricane season in 2026, federal government scientists said on Thursday, predicting eight to 14 named storms with winds at 39mph (63km/h) or more. The milder-than-usual forecast is thanks to a developing El Niño weather pattern in the central and eastern Pacific.The announcement came days before the start of hurricane season, which begins on 1 June and runs through 30 November. Continue reading...
