With hurricane season at hand forecasters predict a quieter season for the East Coast

Pictured: Johnny Mo at Mallards at the Wharf in Onancock Makes the Best of Hurricane Sandy

Forecasters say the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than recent years, offering some welcome news for communities along the East Coast. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, this year’s outlook calls for between eight and fourteen named storms, with three to six expected to become hurricanes. Of those, one to three could reach major hurricane strength.

NOAA says there’s a fifty-five percent chance the season will finish below average, largely because of developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific. Those conditions typically create stronger upper-level winds over the Atlantic, making it more difficult for tropical storms and hurricanes to organize and strengthen.

While the forecast points to fewer storms overall, emergency officials stress that residents should not let their guard down. History has shown that it takes only one hurricane making landfall to cause devastating damage, regardless of how active the season is as a whole.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June first through November thirtieth, with activity usually peaking from late August into September. Coastal communities from Florida to New England remain vulnerable to hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, storm surge, and dangerous surf.

Officials recommend that families review emergency plans now, assemble disaster supply kits, and stay informed by following updates from the National Hurricane Center and local emergency management agencies throughout the season.

The bottom line: while 2026 is expected to be a quieter hurricane season, preparedness remains the best defense. One storm can make all the difference, and experts say now is the time to be ready—not when a hurricane is already approaching the coast.

Plan to visit the Shore Daily News Hurricane Preparedness Guide on shoredailynews.com to develop a plan should the Shore be threatened by a tropical disturbance this year.  You can also pick up a free printed copy at many local businesses.