Eastern Pacific Sees Active Storm Season as Atlantic Remains Quiet
The Eastern Pacific is experiencing an active hurricane season with multiple tropical storms forming, while the Atlantic Basin shows significantly less activity, aligning with NOAA's predictions for a below-normal season.
As of mid-July 2026, the Eastern Pacific has already seen the formation of Tropical Storm Amanda in early June and Tropical Storm Elida on July 15, 2026. Both storms are part of a typical season that averages 15 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes over the 1991–2020 period. Elida, however, poses no threat to land, according to reports.
In contrast, the Atlantic Basin has only recorded one named storm, Tropical Storm Arthur, which occurred briefly from June 17 to 18. This limited activity is reflected in the accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) for the region, which is 92% below average for this point in the season.
NOAA's 2026 Atlantic hurricane season outlook, issued in May, forecasted a 55% chance of a below-normal season, primarily due to the influence of an emerging El Niño. This climate pattern typically increases vertical wind shear over the Atlantic, suppressing hurricane formation.