Colorado State University (CSU) forecasters predict a less-than-average 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, with 13 tropical storms expected, six of which will become hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. This forecast, released on April 9, acknowledges high uncertainty due to developing El Niño conditions, which can disrupt storm formation despite fueling global heat. A typical season averages 14 tropical storms and seven hurricanes. Experts emphasize that even with a predicted lower activity, coastal residents must prepare, as a single landfalling hurricane can cause significant impact. The probabilities for major hurricanes making landfall in the U.S. are 32% for the entire coastline, 15% for the East Coast, and 20% for the Gulf Coast.