In Florida, the forecast cone is only part of the story. Hurricane impacts can extend far beyond the center track — reaching inland through wind, flooding, and tornadoes.

Florida has seen just six June hurricane strikes since 1851, with no system stronger than a Category 2 hurricane.

In Florida, the forecast cone is only part of the story. Hurricane impacts can extend far beyond the center track — reaching inland through wind, flooding, and tornadoes.

During an average year, the Atlantic Basin sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. The list of names for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season starts with Arthur.

NOAA’s outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season predicts below-normal activity as an impending El Niño will lead to increased wind shear across the basin.

With hurricane season approaching, the National Hurricane Center is preparing to test a new forecast cone and mobile-friendly web pages. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has again proposed eliminating offices that investigate hurricanes and improve forecasts.

In Florida, hurricane preparation works best when it begins before the season ever tests it—even a small step now can lower risk and reduce pressure later.

Clear skies can be misleading. In Florida, some of the most dangerous hurricane hazards begin after the storm—during cleanup, return, and recovery.

In Florida, evacuation and final preparations need to happen before conditions deteriorate—because the safe window often closes faster than expected.

The forecast cone shows the likely path of a storm’s center—but in Florida, dangerous impacts often extend far beyond it.

Early work includes clearing vegetation and inspecting power lines.

A developing El Niño could affect Florida in two major ways: fewer Atlantic hurricanes, followed by a wetter, stormier winter with greater severe weather risk. NOAA says El Niño over a 60% chance of developing in summer 2026, with a 1-in-3 chance of becoming strong by late fall.