The lack of hurricanes so far in 2026 has reduced immediate risks to coastal communities in the Atlantic basin, including the U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico. However, late September and October are historically active months for hurricane formation, and dangerous storms could still develop. Residents in hurricane-prone areas should remain vigilant as the season progresses. If the Atlantic remains quiet through November, 2026 could become only the third season on record without a hurricane, a rare occurrence that underscores the influence of El Niño on weather patterns.