As September reaches its peak, students may be wondering the same thing: Where are the hurricanes? The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and September is among the busiest months. However, 2026 has been unusually quiet. The Atlantic basin has not formed a single hurricane so far in 2026, breaking a 112-year-old record for the slowest start to a hurricane season not seen since 1914. As of September 21, the Atlantic has had six named storms, but none have reached hurricane strength. Normally by this point, there would have been about four hurricanes.
One reason for the lack of hurricanes is El Niño, a climate pattern that affects weather worldwide. The National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says El Niño can increase vertical wind shear over the Atlantic, making it harder for tropical systems to organize and strengthen. Other atmospheric and ocean conditions also affect how active a hurricane season becomes.
“I was surprised that we haven’t had a hurricane yet because it feels like we usually have to prepare for one every year,” said senior Fernanda Martinez.
Even though the season has been quiet, hurricane season is not over. NOAA’s updated August outlook predicted a below-normal season, with seven to 13 named storms and two to six hurricanes possible. The agency also says most activity is expected during August, September, and October, meaning there is still time for conditions to change.
“I think people might become less worried because nothing major has happened yet,” said junior Hailey Martinez.
For South Florida residents, the quiet season may make hurricanes feel less immediate. However, meteorologists say preparation should remain important because seasonal forecasts cannot predict exactly where or when a storm will form or make landfall.
With hurricane season continuing through November 30, South Florida residents will continue watching weather forecasts and staying prepared always. For now, residents can only wait and see what the remainder of the season brings. Until then, the quiet season continues for now.
