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Hurricanes weather forecast
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The gist
AccuWeather cuts 2026 Atlantic forecast to 8-11 named storms, down from 11-16. U.S. still faces 3-5 direct impacts, so preparation remains key.
Background
The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has been quieter than average, with the first hurricane and fourth named storm forming later than usual. AccuWeather's updated forecast reflects this, lowering the expected number of storms while keeping the U.S. impact risk unchanged. Meanwhile, in the Pacific, Hawaii has already been hit by Hurricane Lala and is now bracing for Tropical Storm Moke.
How it unfolded
- Mar 2026AccuWeather issues initial forecast calling for 11-16 named storms.
- Jul 22, 2026Tropical Storm Bertha approaches Louisiana coast, with a wave crashing along Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans.
- Aug 15, 2026Hurricane Lala strengthens to Category 1 and lashes Hawaii's Big Island with heavy rain and winds up to 75 mph.
- Aug 19, 2026AccuWeather updates Atlantic forecast to 8-11 named storms, 3-4 hurricanes, 1-2 major hurricanes, with 3-5 direct U.S. impacts.
- Aug 20, 2026Tropical Depression Two-C forms southeast of Hawaii, expected to become a strong tropical storm (later named Moke).
- Aug 23, 2026Tropical Storm Moke nears Hawaii, with swells causing life-threatening surf and rip currents.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Hawaii Emergency Management Agency urges residents to prepare for hurricane season, noting life-threatening surf from Moke.
- Analysts
- AccuWeather meteorologist Alex DaSilva explains the lowered outlook but emphasizes the U.S. still faces risks with 3-5 direct impacts.