CSU has released their early 2026 Hurricane Season forecast and is predicting a slightly below-normal season. No matter the forecast, preparation is key.
Colorado State University (CSU) has released its initial 2026 hurricane season forecast, predicting somewhat below-normal activity. Currently, weak La Niña conditions are present but are expected to transition to El Niño in the coming months, with the potential for a moderate to strong El Niño by the peak of the season.
Sea surface temperatures are warmer than average in the western tropical Atlantic but slightly cooler in the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. The anticipated El Niño is expected to be the dominant influence this season, increasing vertical wind shear across the tropical Atlantic and typically suppressing hurricane development.
CSU forecasts a below-average probability of major hurricane landfalls along the U.S. coastline and in the Caribbean. However, residents are reminded that it only takes one landfalling storm to make a season impactful, so thorough preparations are essential every year, regardless of forecasted activity.
