Overview
- AccuWeather, which released its seasonal outlook Wednesday, projects 11 to 16 named storms, 4 to 7 hurricanes, and 2 to 4 major hurricanes, with 3 to 5 direct U.S. impacts.
- Risk maps highlight the northern and eastern Gulf Coast and the Carolinas as more likely to see significant effects, while central and southern Texas face a lower risk.
- Forecasters warn that unusually warm Atlantic and Gulf waters can fuel rapid intensification near the coast, leaving less time to prepare.
- A developing El Niño is expected by late summer and often increases upper‑level winds that disrupt Atlantic storms, though its timing and strength remain uncertain.
- Emergency managers urge early planning, noting potential strain on tourists and residents along Florida’s west coast and on energy operations across the Gulf.