Overview
- NOAA data show the Atlantic has produced no hurricanes so far this season, a stretch that matched the latest first‑hurricane date on September 17, 2026, and is the longest hurricane‑free interval since at least 1966.
- Forecasters had predicted a below‑average Atlantic season of seven to 13 named storms but only five named storms — Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly and Edouard — have formed so far.
- Meteorologists say a very strong El Niño is the main driver, warming the central and eastern Pacific and increasing upper‑level wind shear over the Atlantic, which tears storm clouds apart before they can organize.
- Experts also point to repeated Saharan Air Layer dust intrusions, cooler waters in the tropical Atlantic main development region, and rising atmospheric stability as additional factors suppressing storm growth.
- The season runs until November 30, NOAA and other forecasters note a central Atlantic disturbance has a modest short‑term chance of development and October could bring more favorable conditions for hurricanes.