A first in 13 years? Atlantic hurricane season could set new rare record
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season remains unusually quiet and may set a record for the latest first hurricane. El Niño conditions are influencing reduced storm activity
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is tracking significantly behind historical norms and may set a new record for its delayed activity. As of this week, the first hurricane of the season has yet to form, far behind the average first occurrence date of August 11.
The current record for the latest first hurricane formation in the Atlantic is September 11, set by Hurricane Gustav in 2002 and tied by Hurricane Humberto in 2013.
The seven-day outlook from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) shows no significant tropical development expected in the Atlantic Basin, leaving open the possibility for a new record.
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While the Atlantic remains unusually calm, the Pacific has been active, with 15 named storms so far this season, including six hurricanes and two Category 5 systems.
Recent Pacific activity includes flooding tropical rains from Lala in Hawaii and ongoing impacts from Lowell, which prompted the first-ever tornado watch issued for the Hawaiian Islands.
Stay updated for the latest tropical developments and potential record-breaking milestones in the Atlantic season.