Atlantic hurricane season sees unprecedented lack of hurricanes

The Atlantic hurricane season is experiencing an unprecedented period of inactivity. As of late September 2026, the basin has recorded only six named storms and zero hurricanes, a trend that falls significantly below historical averages and initial forecasts provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Climatologically, hurricane activity typically peaks around September 10. Reaching September 21 without a single hurricane is a phenomenon not seen in the last 112 years, dating back to 1914. Since historical records began in 1851, only 1907 and 1914 saw entire seasons pass without a hurricane. If the current quiet trend continues through November 30, 2026, it will mark only the third such occurrence in recorded history.

Despite the current lull, meteorologists continue to monitor the Caribbean Sea and the southern Gulf of Mexico for potential late-season weather systems.