Atlantic sets record for absence of hurricanes
Not a single hurricane has formed in the Atlantic Ocean in 2026 so far, despite the fact that the season has already reached its usual peak.
Since the start of the season, only five relatively weak and short-lived tropical storms have arisen in the Atlantic. The year 2026 has set a record for the length of the hurricane-free period since the beginning of the season, at least for the satellite era.
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, there are currently no tropical cyclones in the Atlantic. Overall storm activity in the region amounts to only about 7% of the norm for this time of year.
Specialists link the unusually quiet season to a strong El Niño. Increased wind shear destroys forming storms, while dry air and descending air currents further hinder their development.
At the same time, experts warn that the season is not yet over. In particular, conditions in the Gulf of Mexico remain more favorable for the formation of strong storms later in the fall.
On the opposite side of the continent, the situation is different. Tropical cyclone activity in the eastern Pacific is nearly double the usual figures.
Source: Associated Press
