Fewer hurricanes in the Atlantic, but Long Island could still get slammed by major storms, forecasters say

This year's El Niño system could also bring a drier summer to the East Coast with more frequent storms in the Western United States and in the Pacific Ocean, meteorologists said.

Officials Forecast 'Below-Average' Hurricane Season, but Warn 'It Just Takes One'

In total, NOAA is forecasting eight to 14 named storms in the Atlantic this season

Here's the official hurricane forecast for 2026. How many storms could NC see?

Officials stressed that even one storm can cause destruction and loss of life.

Hurricane forecast: A below-average season, but ‘it only takes one’

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a 55% chance of a below-normal hurricane season for 2026, the first time since 2015, after two years of above-normal activity predictions.