El Niño Suppresses Atlantic Hurricane Formation in 2026
El Niño Suppresses Atlantic Hurricane Formation in 2026
Atlantic Ocean · Published Sep 13, 2026
• As of mid-September 2026, the Atlantic hurricane season has been unusually quiet, with no hurricanes forming despite warm ocean temperatures. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that only five named tropical storms—Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, and Edouard—have developed, none of which intensified into hurricanes. The Atlantic's Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) is 93% below the 1991–2020 average for this time of year, standing at just 4.
• The primary factor behind this anomaly is a strong El Niño event in the Pacific, which has increased vertical wind shear over the Atlantic, disrupting the formation of hurricanes. Additionally, dry air and sinking atmospheric motion have further hindered storm development. (Source: UrduPure, 2026-09-13)

Impact & Risks

The lack of hurricanes in the Atlantic has provided a temporary reprieve for coastal communities that are typically at risk during this time of year. However, meteorologists warn against complacency, as the Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30, and conditions could still change. A single destructive hurricane could form if atmospheric conditions become favorable, posing significant risks to vulnerable areas. The Gulf of Mexico and the western Caribbean remain particularly susceptible to late-season storms.

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