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El Niño Weakens 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Outlook, Fewer Storms Expected
7/9/2026
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Story summary
- A record-strengthening El Niño is driving a downgrade of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook.
- Colorado State University now expects nine named storms, four hurricanes and one major hurricane for 2026.
- AccuWeather cuts its outlook to eight-14 storms, citing a 70 percent chance of a super El Niño.
- AccuWeather expects four to seven hurricanes in the 2026 season.
- Meteorologists note Caribbean wind shear suppresses development, yet Arthur set Louisiana’s 24-hour rainfall record.
