No hurricanes made landfall in the US during the 2025 season, leaving Lakelanders to wonder what this year will bring. Forecasters predict below-normal activity, but here's what to know as prep begins ahead of the 2026 hurricane season's official start on June 1.

What's the forecast?

Colorado State University released its first 2026 Atlantic hurricane season forecast on Thursday, April 9, and its next will be released in June. The forecast calls for "somewhat below-normal activity" due to changing water temperatures caused by El Niño.

Here are the predictions, compared to the seasonal averages:

13 named storms (average: 14.4)
Six hurricanes (average: 7.2)
Two major hurricanes (average: 3.2)
15% chance of a hurricane making landfall on the Florida peninsula (average: 21%)

Lists of potential names are released by the National Hurricane Center. This year's list includes Arthur, Dolly, Kyle, Omar, and Sally — just to name a few.

How can I prepare?

Even if the season could be less active than usual, it's never too early to start storm preparations. Use our hurricane season prep guide to start checking things off your to-do list and stocking up on supplies ahead of time.