WORLD NEWS
The Atlantic went later without a hurricane than any satellite-era season
The 2026 Atlantic season reached its usual September peak without producing a hurricane, the latest first-hurricane delay of the satellite era.
The official season runs through 30 November, so today’s quiet basin does not remove later risk.
How low
Five named storms had formed, but zero hurricanes or major hurricanes; ACE was 4.4, 93% below the 1991–2020 norm.
Why
A powerful El Niño increased vertical wind shear, while dry air and Saharan dust also disrupted organization. Warm water alone is insufficient.
Record limit
Some pre-1950 seasons also lacked a hurricane this late, but incomplete ocean observation makes that comparison unreliable.
Safety
Coastal residents should keep supplies and evacuation plans. One late storm can still cause severe damage, and tropical storms can flood.
Next check
Follow NHC two-day and seven-day outlooks; the 12 September outlook saw no formation for seven days but is continuously updated.
Primary source and independent checks
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