Home / Environment / Atlantic Hurricane Season Record Looms
Atlantic Hurricane Season Record Looms
14 Sep
Summary
- Atlantic season has not seen a hurricane, setting a new record.
- Record for latest first hurricane formation could be broken soon.
- A central Atlantic disturbance shows a low chance for development.
As of September 14, 2026, the Atlantic hurricane season has set a new record for the latest date of the first hurricane's formation, surpassing a 60-year-old mark. This season has seen five tropical storms but no hurricanes, a rarity that could lead to only the third hurricane-free season in history if none form before November 30, 2026.
Forecasters are monitoring a disturbance in the central subtropical Atlantic, located over 1,000 miles east-southeast of Bermuda. While currently experiencing unfavorable conditions, this system is expected to move into an environment more conducive to gradual development by the latter part of the week. Its chances for development in the next seven days are currently low at 30 percent.
Historically, the peak of hurricane season is mid-September, with the most activity occurring between mid-August and mid-October. The average Atlantic season typically has 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes. The current quiet season may be influenced by a strengthening El Niño, which increases wind shear and hinders storm development.
