Super El Niño Influences 2026 Hurricane Season in Atlantic and Pacific
Super El Niño Influences 2026 Hurricane Season in Atlantic and Pacific
US · Published Jul 31, 2026
A powerful 'super El Niño' is shaping the 2026 hurricane season, with significant impacts on both the Atlantic and Pacific basins.
El Niño, characterized by warmer-than-average ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, has already surpassed the 2°C (3.6°F) threshold to be classified as 'super.' This phenomenon is expected to become the strongest El Niño on record later this year.

Impact & Risks

The Atlantic hurricane season may see a delayed and less intense peak due to the suppressive effects of El Niño, including record-high wind shear over the Caribbean. This reduces the likelihood of storms forming or intensifying in the region. However, the Pacific basin faces elevated risks, with increased storm activity threatening areas like Mexico's Pacific Coast and Hawaii. While the overall risk of U.S. hurricane landfalls is lower this season, the potential for isolated, impactful storms remains. Travelers to hurricane-prone areas, particularly in the Pacific, should remain vigilant.

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