This Hurricane Season Breaks a Record

It's hard to believe, but we have had 0 hurricanes so far this 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. And that breaks a record in the satellite-era. Previously, the latest first hurricane to form on record was on September 11, with both Hurricane Gustav in 2002 and Hurricane Humberto in 2013.

As we move through the peak of hurricane season, we have only recorded 5 tropical storms: Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly and Edouard.

Although we broke a record, it's not surprising. 

Back in May, the National Hurricane Center released its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook, which predicted:

• 8–14 named storms
• 3–6 hurricanes
• 1–3 major hurricanes
• A 55% chance of a below-normal season

We know El Niño typically increases wind shear across portions of the Atlantic Basin, which can make it more difficult for tropical systems to organize and strengthen.

It Ain't Over Until It's Over

Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30, leaving plenty of time for hurricanes to develop.

This record tells us how unusual the season has been so far, not what will happen next. Tropical activity can continue well into October and November, and conditions across the Atlantic Basin can change quickly.