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Atlantic Hurricane Season Begins Quietly as Saharan Dust, Cool Waters Limit Development
Below Average Activity expected for 2026 season
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins Monday, June 1, and forecasters say the tropics are starting the season on a notably quiet note.
Several atmospheric and oceanic factors are currently preventing tropical storm and hurricane development across the Atlantic basin.
One of the biggest factors is the presence of relatively cool water temperatures off the coast of Africa, where many Atlantic tropical systems originate.
Sea surface temperatures in the region remain in the low to mid-70s, well below the threshold typically needed to support widespread thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation.
Adding to the suppressive environment is a large plume of dust originating from the Sahara Desert.
The dry, dusty air has spread across much of the tropical Atlantic, limiting cloud growth and reducing the moisture and instability necessary for tropical systems to organize and strengthen.
As a result, forecasters are not expecting any tropical development during the next seven days.
Meteorologists say the combination of Saharan dust and unfavorable atmospheric conditions is expected to keep much of the Atlantic basin quiet in the short term.
While water temperatures in the Caribbean Sea are running slightly above average, no areas of concern are currently being monitored for tropical development.
Although the season is beginning without any immediate threats, experts stress that now is the time for residents to prepare for the months ahead.
Emergency managers encourage families to review hurricane evacuation plans, update emergency kits, and ensure they have adequate supplies before any storms develop later in the season.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs annually from June 1 through November 30, with activity typically increasing during the peak months of August, September and October.
For now, forecasters say residents can enjoy a quiet start to the season while taking advantage of the opportunity to get prepared before the tropics become more active.
