NOAA predicts below-normal hurricane season

(Image credit: NOAA)

Forecasters with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are predicting a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season for 2026.

The agency’s outlook for the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, indicates a 55 per cent chance of a below-normal season, along with a 35 per cent chance of a near-normal season and a 10 per cent chance of an above-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting between eight and 14 named storms this year, with winds of at least 63 kilometres per hour. Of those storms, between three and six are expected to strengthen into hurricanes, with winds reaching at least 119 km/h. Forecasters say one to three of those hurricanes could become major hurricanes classified as Category 3, 4 or 5, with winds exceeding 178 km/h.

NOAA said it has a 70 per cent confidence level in the forecast ranges. A typical Atlantic hurricane season produces 14 named storms, including seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.