Millions of Americans told to ‘prepare NOW’ as 2026 hurricane season is just days away

The official hurricane prediction for the 2026 season has warned that millions of Americans need to review their preparedness plans now.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said Thursday that although this year’s Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be below normal, past seasons with lower-than-average activity have still produced devastating Category 5 storms that made landfall.

Forecasters said several competing weather patterns are expected to shape this year’s season. 

While El Niño is forecast to strengthen during the coming months, a climate pattern that typically suppresses hurricane activity, unusually warm Atlantic waters and weaker-than-average trade winds could still help fuel storm development. 

NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham said: ‘Although El Niño’s impact in the Atlantic Basin can often suppress hurricane development, there is still uncertainty in how each season will unfold.

‘That is why it’s essential to review your hurricane preparedness plan now. It only takes one storm to make for a very bad season. Preparing now for hurricane season, and not waiting for a storm to threaten, is essential for staying ahead of any storm.’

NOAA’s outlook shows three to six hurricanes with wind speeds above 74mph and one to three major hurricanes with winds exceeding 111mph. 

The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 and runs through November 30.

The first named Atlantic Tropical Cyclone on the list is Arthur, followed by Bertha, Cristobal and Dolly. 

NOAA said there is a 55 percent chance the Atlantic hurricane season will be below average this year, though forecasters also warned there remains a 10 percent chance activity could rise above normal. 

AccuWeather released its 2026 hurricane outlook in March, urging millions of Americans, particularly in Virginia, the Carolinas, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, to start preparing for potentially devastating weather, as even a small number of hurricanes could be deadly and cause billions of dollars in damage.

AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said: ‘There is no reason to let your guard down this year. It only takes one storm to cause major damage, disruption and heartache.

‘Review your insurance coverage, safety plans, and local evacuation routes now. Make sure your emergency supplies are stocked up.’

NOAA officials echoed the statements, urging residents at the highest risk of being in the path of hurricanes to begin stocking up on emergency supplies, including gas, food, water and other essentials, before long lines form during an actual emergency.

This is a developing story… More updates to come.