By Josh Morgerman
Hurricane season is upon us again, and I’ve been hearing the chatter online and around town. Some folks are saying we’re going to “get off easy” this year because of El Niño.
What’s El Niño, you ask? Every few years, the Pacific gets very warm near the equator. This phenomenon changes wind patterns in a way that suppresses hurricane formation in the Atlantic and Gulf — definitely a good thing!
While it’s true El Niño is starting up, it is not a magical protection against hurricanes. Remember Hurricane Camille, the mighty category 5 that smashed Mississippi in 1969? That happened during an El Niño.
The bottom line: We never know for sure when a bad one is going to strike. So, get ready for this hurricane season just like any other.
2026 OUTLOOK: EL NIÑO CONDITIONS EXPECTED, BUT RISKS REMAIN
The 2026 Hurricane Season officially kicks off on June 1, and the outlook from the Colorado State University Hurricane Forecasting Team predicts normal to slightly below-normal activity, with 13 named storms — including six hurricanes and two major hurricanes. While El Niño conditions can hinder hurricane formation, forecasters note that Atlantic waters remain unusually warm, which could partially offset El Niño’s suppressing effects. That’s why some groups — especially the University of Arizona — still project an active season.
SECURE YOUR SHELTER
Besides the usual preparations, like stocking up on bottled water and nonperishable food, I recommend taking a good look at your house. Is your roof in good shape? Is it properly tied down? Your roof is your home’s MVP during a hurricane; if it stays on, you’re good. If it tears off, you’re in serious trouble. How about your windows? A lot of damage happens when a window breaks and exposes the house’s interior to wind, so make sure you have impact glass or a good shutter system.
And what about your siding? That’s your home’s coat of armor. I have tough fiber-cement siding because it looks like traditional wood but it’s impact-resistant. Soft vinyl or old, rotting wood leave your home vulnerable.
NEW TO THE COAST? HERE’S THE ESSENTIAL TIP YOU SHOULD KNOW
Never been through a hurricane? Normal people find them very unpleasant. Here’s one simple tip: If a big hurricane comes roaring in off the Gulf — and one will at some point, because it’s just part of life down here — make sure your home is high enough to escape the storm surge (which is when the sea invades the land) and sturdy enough to withstand the wind. If you’re not sure it’s high enough and sturdy enough, leave. Ride out the storm elsewhere — in a designated shelter or a safe location many miles inland.
Josh Morgerman is a world-renowned stormchaser, adventurer, TV personality, speaker and influencer. Learn more at icyclone.com or contact him at info@icyclone.com.