Colorado State University's researchers have released their initial forecast for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, anticipating a near- or below-average season. The forecast includes predictions of approximately 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes, which is slightly less than the long-term seasonal average. This reduction in activity is primarily attributed to the expected development of an El Niño, a climate pattern known to suppress hurricane formation in the Atlantic due to increased vertical wind shear and atmospheric subsidence.