The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released its 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook. CBS News meteorologist Jessica Burch summarized the agency’s update and explained what the forecast means for communities along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
What NOAA released
NOAA’s seasonal outlook describes the overall risk for the Atlantic basin during the official hurricane season (June 1–November 30). The outlook highlights the large-scale climate factors that influence the number and strength of tropical storms and hurricanes and identifies areas where conditions could favor increased activity or reduced development.
How the forecast is made
Seasonal outlooks combine long‑range climate models and observations of key drivers: El Niño–Southern Oscillation (the El Niño or La Niña pattern), Atlantic sea surface temperatures, tropical Atlantic wind shear, and the presence of dry air or Saharan dust. Those elements affect storm formation, intensity, and tracks. NOAA’s scientists assess these influences and produce a risk-based forecast rather than pinpoint predictions of landfalls.
What to expect and what it doesn’t say
A seasonal outlook indicates basin‑wide activity and potential risk levels; it does not predict where or when individual storms will strike. Even a relatively “quiet” season can produce a major hurricane that impacts a coastline, while an “active” season doesn’t guarantee landfall. The outlook is intended to prompt preparedness and planning well before storms develop.
Preparedness steps
NOAA and local emergency officials recommend reviewing your family’s hurricane plan now: update emergency kits (water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications), know your evacuation routes and shelter options, review insurance coverage, and secure important documents. Sign up for local alerts and monitor forecasts from the National Weather Service and NOAA as the season approaches.
Stay informed
Jessica Burch and other meteorologists advised that residents check NOAA’s full outlook and follow local forecasts for watches, warnings, and specific storm guidance. Seasonal forecasts provide context for the months ahead, but real‑time forecasts and official watches/warnings are what people should use to make immediate safety decisions.
Where to find the outlook
NOAA’s 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook, supporting graphics and explanations of the science behind the forecast are available on NOAA’s website and through the National Weather Service. Local news outlets, including CBS News, will continue to report updates as the season evolves and storms develop.