5 things you need to know about hurricane season 2026
- The Atlantic is bracing for a 'hyperactive' stretch, with forecasters predicting 22-26 named storms, fueled by record-warm ocean temperatures and a lingering La Niña pattern.
- Tropical cyclones could form as early as spring, thanks to unusual pre-season warmth in the main development region—meaning preparation should start months earlier than usual.
- A powerful 'wind shear shield' over the Caribbean has collapsed for the first time in decades, leaving islands from Puerto Rico to Cuba highly vulnerable to rapid intensification.
- Climate models show a 'train track' effect developing along the US East Coast, with multiple storms following similar paths that could trigger catastrophic flooding from Florida to Maine.
- Emergency agencies are stockpiling supplies now, as supply chains are still fragile from 2024's record season, and insurance premiums for coastal homes are expected to spike another 20% by fall.