2026 Pacific hurricane season
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The 2026 Pacific hurricane season is the current Pacific hurricane season in the Northern Hemisphere. The season officially began on May 15, 2026, and will end on November 30, 2026. For the Central Pacific (140°W to 180°), the season began on June 1, 2026, and will end on November 30, 2026, with the most active period typically occurring between July and October. Those dates, adopted by convention, describe the period in which most tropical cyclogenesis occurs in the Pacific Ocean. This season has produced the highest accumulated cyclone energy value on record in the basin, surpassing the 2018 season. With three Category 5 Pacific hurricanes having formed this season, it is tied with the 1994, 2002, and 2018 seasons as the season with the most Category 5 hurricanes.
(Second-most intense Pacific hurricane on record)
(1-minute sustained)
| 2026 Pacific hurricane season | |
|---|---|
Season summary map | |
| Seasonal boundaries | |
| First system formed | June 2, 2026 |
| Last system dissipated | Season ongoing |
| Strongest storm | |
| Name | Polo (Second-most intense Pacific hurricane on record) |
| • Maximum winds | 180 mph (285 km/h) (1-minute sustained) |
| • Lowest pressure | 892 mbar (hPa; 26.34 inHg) |
| Seasonal statistics | |
| Total depressions | 23 |
| Total storms | 22 |
| Hurricanes | 12 |
| Major hurricanes (Cat. 3+) | 10 |
| ACE | 341.6 (record high) |
| Total fatalities | 32 total |
| Total damage | > $708 million (2026 USD) |
| Related articles | |
The first system of the season, Tropical Storm Amanda, formed in the open eastern Pacific on June 2. In July, Hurricane Fausto became the first hurricane, while Hurricane Genevieve became the first major hurricane, and first Category 5 hurricane, of the season. In August, Hurricane Lala became the first hurricane to directly hit the Big Island of Hawaii since 1871 while also becoming Hawaii's third-wettest tropical cyclone on record. In September, Lowell became the second Category 5 hurricane of the season and the first hurricane to directly impact Kauaʻi County since Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Later that month, Hurricane Polo became the record-tying third Category 5 hurricane of the season and the second-most-intense Pacific hurricane by central pressure on record.
Seasonal forecasts
| Record | Named storms |
Hurricanes | Major hurricanes |
ACE | Ref | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average (1991–2020) | 15.4 | 8.3 | 4.2 | 100.5 | [1] | |
| Record high activity | 27 | 16† | 11 | 341.6‡ | ||
| Record low activity | 8† | 3 | 0† | 22.3 | [2] | |
| Date | Source | Named storms |
Hurricanes | Major hurricanes |
ACE | Ref |
| April 22, 2026 | SMN | 18–21 | 9–11 | 4–5 | N/A | [3] |
| May 21, 2026 | NOAA | 15–22 | 9–14 | 5–9 | N/A | [4][5] |
| Area | Named storms |
Hurricanes | Major hurricanes |
ACE | Ref | |
| Actual activity: | EPAC | 19 | 10 | 8 | 233.5 | |
| Actual activity: | CPAC | 3 | 2 | 2 | 108.1 | |
| Actual combined activity: | 22 | 12 | 10 | 341.6 | ||
| * May 15–November 30 only
‡ New record for activity or intensity † Most recent of several such occurrences. (See all) | ||||||
In advance of each Pacific hurricane season, forecasts of hurricane activity are issued by forecasters from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)'s Climate Prediction Center, and Mexico's Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN). The forecasts include weekly and monthly changes in significant factors that help determine the amount of tropical storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes within a particular season.
According to NOAA, the average Pacific hurricane season between 1991 and 2020 contained about 15 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes (Category 3 and higher), as well as a median accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index of 75.38–110.55 units.[1] Broadly speaking, ACE is the measure of the power of a tropical or subtropical cyclone multiplied by the length of time it existed. ACE is only calculated for full advisories on specific tropical or subtropical cyclones reaching wind speeds of 39 mph (63 km/h) or higher. NOAA typically describes a season as above-average, average, or below-average depending on the cumulative ACE index, but the number of tropical storms, hurricanes or major hurricanes can also be considered.
On April 22, 2026, Mexico's National Meteorological Service (SMN) issued its first forecast for the Pacific hurricane season, predicting 18–21 named storms, 9–11 hurricanes and 4–5 major hurricanes.[3] On May 21, 2026, NOAA issued its forecast, indicating an above-normal season with 15–22 named storms, 9–14 hurricanes, and 5–9 major hurricanes.[4] NOAA forecasted that these elevated numbers would materialize due to a strong El Niño event during the season.[6][5]
Seasonal summary
Officially, the 2026 Pacific hurricane season began on May 15 in the Eastern Pacific, on June 1 in the Central Pacific, and both will end on November 30.[8] Altogether, twenty-three tropical cyclones have formed, twenty in the Eastern Pacific and three in the Central Pacific, and all but one became named storms. Twelve of the storms strengthened into hurricanes, with ten of them intensifying into major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher in the Saffir-Simpson scale).
The Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index within the Eastern Pacific Ocean, officially calculated by the National Hurricane Center (NHC), is 232.8 units, the third-highest recorded since 1990, while the index within the Central Pacific Ocean is 108.1 units, the third highest since 2018. In total, combined for the two basins, as of October 17, is 341.6 units, which is the highest accumulated cyclone energy value recorded in the basin.[9][10]
The Pacific hurricane season had an exceptionally strong start, with three named systems developing by early June—the most active opening to a season in the basin since 1985.[11] On June 2, Tropical Storm Amanda formed in the open Pacific, becoming the first tropical cyclone of the season.[12] Five days later, Tropical Storm Boris formed off the southwestern coast of Mexico, followed by Tropical Storm Cristina the next day off the Pacific coast of Nicaragua.[13] Boris caused damage in southern Mexico while Cristina brought torrential rain throughout Central America. In early July, Tropical Storm Douglas formed in the open Pacific, without affecting any land.[14] Tropical Storm Fausto formed on July 19 and subsequently became the first hurricane of the season; Fausto crossed into the central Pacific a week later. On July 24, Hurricane Genevieve formed near the coast of Mexico and, a few days later, became the first major hurricane of the season. Genevieve ultimately became the first Category 5 hurricane in the basin since Kristy in 2024.[15]
In September, Hurricane Lowell became the first Pacific hurricane to reach Category 5 intensity twice since Hurricane Ioke in 2006.[16] Later that month, Hurricane Polo not only repeated that feat but also reached Category 5 a third time, a first for Pacific hurricanes. It also became the second-most-intense Pacific hurricane ever recorded, after Hurricane Patricia, with a pressure of 892 mbar (26.34 inHg),[17] and accumulated the longest total time at Category 5 intensity of any Pacific hurricane.
Systems
Tropical Storm Amanda
On May 31, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) noted that an area of low pressure could form well to the southwest of the Baja California Peninsula.[18] The system quickly organized over time, and by June 2, the system was designated as Tropical Depression One-E after its cloud pattern had improved and scatterometer data identified a closed low-level circulation.[19][20] The next day, the depression strengthened into a tropical storm and was named Amanda, following deepening convection near its center.[21] Through June 3 to June 4, Amanda strengthened and organized slightly, though suffering from some wind shear.[22][23] On June 5, Amanda began weakening and its center became completely exposed.[24] On June 6, Amanda weakened into a tropical depression in the face of shear and dry air, though warm waters allowed Amanda to continue producing some convection.[25] Amanda continued to wane through June 7 as environmental shear and dry air increased.[26] By June 8, Amanda lacked enough convection to be considered a tropical cyclone, transitioning into a remnant low.[19][27]
Tropical Storm Boris
On June 3, the NHC noted the possibility of an area of low pressure forming off the southwestern coast of Mexico.[28] On June 7, an Oceansat-3 pass had indicated that the disturbance had consolidated a closed low-level circulation, the low was classified as Tropical Depression Two-E at 15:00 UTC.[29] Early the next day, the system acquired tropical storm-force wind and received the name Boris.[30] Most of the convection at this point was organized linearly with some banding around the center of the storm.[30] On June 9, Boris made landfall on the far southwestern coast of Oaxaca.[31] The rugged terrain proved unfavorable for this system, therefore transitioning it into a post-tropical cyclone, and then quickly dissipating afterward.[32]
One person died in Manzanillo, Colima, in rough seas.[33] Two additional people were swept away by rough surf in Tecomán and later found dead.[33][34] Commercial losses in Acapulco were estimated at Mex$1.5 billion (US$87.1 million).[35] In Oaxaca, a man drowned after his truck was swept away by an overflowing river. An outdoor theater worth Mex$54 million (US$3.16 million) was destroyed by swells.[36] As of July 2026[update], Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. estimated that losses totaled to US$100 million.[37]
Tropical Storm Cristina
On June 3, the NHC noted the possibility of an area of low pressure forming off the western coast of Central America.[28] On June 8, after developing persistent deep convection, the low was classed as a tropical depression and was it designated Tropical Depression Three-E.[38] Soon, the depression intensified into a tropical storm, becoming named Cristina, with winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a pressure of 1,002 mbar (29.59 inHg) based on scatterometer data.[39] At the time while moving at an erratic movement, Cristina exhibited an exposed low-level circulation, a characteristic typical of tropical cyclones under the effects of high wind shear because of the interaction of a nearby and slightly stronger Tropical Storm Boris.[40] Cristina weakened in
to a tropical depression as a result. The trend continued, and on June 11, Cristina opened up into a trough as the circulation was no longer well defined.[41] The trough merged with a low pressure system which later produced heavy rainfall along the western Gulf of Mexico coast.[42]
Prior to becoming a tropical depression, Cristina produced heavy rains that caused flooding in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, killing a 60-year-old man and disrupting traffic.[43] In Santa Cruz, Costa Rica, five people were left missing after heavy winds attributed to Cristina capsized two boats.[44] Across El Salvador, 58 damaged or flooded homes, 11 affected vehicles, 38 fallen trees, 34 blocked roads and 5 landslides were reported.[45] In Acajutla, residents and business owners estimated that losses totaled to US$150,000.[46] Heavy rainfall related to Cristina, combined with the effects of the local rainy season, resulted in five deaths and three injuries in Guatemala; two deaths occurred each in Momostenango and Casillas and a child died in Senahú.[47] In Chiapas, heavy rainfall from Cristina caused flooding. A man was found dead after being swept away by an overflowing river.[48]
Tropical Storm Douglas
On June 21, the NHC began monitoring a disturbance off the southwestern coast of Mexico and noted the possibility of tropical development.[49] The disturbance increased in chances for development as it showed signs of further organization as it moved into open waters.[50] The disturbance eventually had a 90% chance of development according to the NHC.[51] By July 1, the low pressure system obtained enough organization to be classified as Tropical Depression Four-E and had winds of 35 mph (55 km/h) and a pressure of 1005 mbar (29.67 inHg).[14] Later, it strengthened into a tropical storm and received the name Douglas.[52][53] The system meandered slowly over the open waters, eventually reaching peak winds of 40 mph (65 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 1003 mbar (29.61 inHg) over the open waters,[54] which it maintained until July 3. The system weakened into a remnant low with only a little amount of convection and cloud tops near the circulation mainly due to cooler sea surface temperatures.[55][56] The remnants of the system continued moving generally to the northwest towards cooler waters in the open Eastern Pacific Ocean,[56] before dissipating on July 5.
Tropical Storm Elida
On July 7, at 06:00 UTC, the NHC began monitoring a disturbance off the coast of southern Mexico with a low chance for development.[57] Over the next few days, the disturbance became better organized under favorable conditions for tropical cyclogenesis. On July 14 at 18:00 UTC, the system consolidated into Tropical Depression Five-E,[58] and twelve hours later, the depression was upgraded to Tropical Storm Elida.[59] Though some dry air and mid-level wind wind shear hindered the storm, it continued to strengthen.[60] It attained its peak intensity on July 18 with winds of 70 mph (115 km/h) and a pressure of 990 mbar (29.23 inHg).[61] The storm then weakened as it moved over colder waters as well as experiencing more dry air and wind shear. The system stopped producing significant convection on July 20 and became post-tropical.[62]
Elida impacted Clarion Island with strong winds and rough seas throughout July 16.[63] Swells related to the remnants of Elida as well as the further distant Hurricanes Fausto and Genevieve on July 25 impacted produced significant swells on the California coast. A total of 464 water rescues took place in San Diego while another 160 rescues took place in Oceanside.[64] The Los Angeles County Fire Department performed a record 1,950 rescues on July 25.[65] Further north, more than 25 rescues occurred at beaches in the Santa Cruz area that same day.[66] A lifeguard who was caught on video performing one of these rescues in Santa Cruz was invited to the White House to receive a high civilian honor.[67]
Hurricane Fausto
The NHC began monitoring an area for development on July 12,[68] with a tropical wave being located offshore of southern Mexico by July 16.[69] The tropical wave developed into a broad low on July 18.[70] The low gained sufficient organization and developed into Tropical Depression Six-E at 03:00 UTC on July 19.[71] The depression continued to organize and strengthened to Tropical Storm Fausto at 21:00 UTC later that day.[72] Fausto strengthened slowly over the next two days, with persistent northerly shear counteracting an otherwise conducive environment.[73] Despite this, Fausto continued to organize, and strengthened into a hurricane at 03:00 UTC on July 22.[74] Thereafter, Fausto struggled to strengthen for a couple days due to resurgent wind shear and dry air intrusions.[75][76] Despite a marginal environment, the storm reorganized and strengthened again on July 24, becoming a Category 2 hurricane.[77] Fausto continued moving west, and weakened back to a Category 1 hurricane due to drier air and cooler sea surface temperatures on July 26.[78] On July 28, Fausto weakened to a tropical storm under further unfavorable conditions,[79] ultimately degenerating into a remnant low the following day, devoid of sufficient convection.[80]
Fausto impacted the Revillagigedo Islands with strong winds and rough seas throughout July 20.[81] Significant swells from Fausto also affected the California coast in conjunction with the remnants of Elida and the developing Genevieve.[64]
Hurricane Genevieve
A tropical wave that moved off the west coast of Africa on July 13 crossed Central America and exited into the Eastern Pacific by July 21.[82] A low-pressure area formed on July 22 to the south of Mexico.[83] It developed into a tropical depression at 06:00 UTC on July 24, and intensified into Tropical Storm Genevieve six hours later. Just over a day later, Genevieve attained hurricane status,[82] amid low wind shear and warm waters. It moved west-northwestward due to a powerful ridge to its northeast.[84] Genevieve rapidly intensified, becoming a major hurricane at 12:00 UTC on July 26,[82][85] It was quickly upgraded to a Category 4 hurricane[82] as it cleared out a warm and symmetric eye.[86] Based on several satellite estimates, the NHC upgraded Genevieve to a Category 5 hurricane at 06:00 UTC on July 27, with peak winds of 160 mph (255 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 924 mbar (27.32 inHg).[82] Soon after its peak, Genevieve began an eyewall replacement cycle, as the eye became cloud-filled and replaced by an outer eyewall.[87][88][89] On July 28, Genevieve fell to a Category 3 hurricane[82] after being affected by dry air and wind shear.[90] The hurricane unexpectedly re-intensified to a Category 4 hurricane on July 29.[82] After this brief resurgence, Genevieve resumed weakening due to the dry air and wind shear, and its eye collapsed.[91][92][93] The deepest convection became displaced to the south and east of its center.[94] At 00:00 UTC on July 31, Genevieve was downgraded to a tropical storm. Genevieve continued to weaken and degenerated to a post-tropical cyclone at 18:00 UTC on August 2.[82]
Genevieve generated swells that caused rough surf and rip current conditions along the western coast of Baja California peninsula and parts of Southwestern Mexico.[95][96] Genevieve produced blustery conditions on Clarion Island, with a peak sustained wind of 63 mph (101 km/h) and a peak wind gust of 86 mph (138 km/h) being observed.[97] Genevieve also generated swells that caused coastal flooding in Southern California, leading to the cancellation of two Pacific Surfliner trains, as well as delays on Metrolink.[98] City officials in Long Beach constructed sand berms on local beaches to prevent flooding from increased tides.[99] A High Surf advisory was issued for Southern California beaches from between July 29 and August 1 due to the threat of dangerous surf conditions.[100] Several water rescues occurred from rough ocean conditions.[98]
Tropical Storm Hernan
The NHC began monitoring a tropical wave south of Baja California on August 8.[101] The system slowly organized over the next few days, developing a well-defined low on August 11.[102] On August 12, the disturbance was designated Tropical Depression Eight-E at 18:00 UTC after developing persistent deep convection and a closed circulation.[103] The cyclone strengthened to a tropical storm six hours later and was named Hernan.[104] Hernan peaked in intensity soon thereafter with a minimum central pressure of 1,003 mbar (29.6 inHg) and 1-minute sustained winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) by 06:00 UTC.[104] Strong shear then exposed the storm's center,[105] weakening it to a tropical depression a day later.[104] On August 15, Hernan degenerated to a remnant low.[106]
Hurricane Lala
On August 12, the NHC designated Potential Tropical Cyclone One due to a tropical disturbance east-southeast of Hawaii.[107] A day later, the NHC redesignated the system as Tropical Storm Lala, after increased convection and consolidation of the circulation.[108] The storm strengthened while moving towards Hawaii, but was deterred slightly by dry air intrusions.[109] At 19:00 UTC on August 15, Lala attained hurricane status.[110] At 03:00 UTC on August 16, Lala passed just south of the Big Island with winds of 80 mph (130 km/h).[111] Land interaction quickly weakened Lala back to a tropical storm, but it regained hurricane status on August 18 after passing the island chain.[112][113] Lala rapidly intensified, attaining peak winds of 130 mph (215 km/h) on August 19, with a minimum pressure of 947 mbar (28.0 inHg).[114] A trough to its north turned Lala to the north, bringing it through the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument on August 21. By that time, it had weakened due to dry air and cooler waters.[115] Lala fell to tropical storm status on August 23. It turned back to the northwest due to a building ridge.[116] Stronger wind shear caused the storm to weaken on August 27.[117] On August 28, Lala transitioned into a post-tropical cyclone.[118] The system crossed the international date line later that day, with the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) marking it as a subtropical system, while the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) classified it as an extratropical low.[119][120]
A 93-year-old woman was found deceased in her home in Nāʻālehu following the storm.[121] In addition, one man was killed and two others were injured, including one critically, as a result of a head-on car accident in Hawaiian Ocean View due to inclement weather caused by Lala's passage.[122][123] A few days after Lala's passage, an unidentified man, believed to be in his 60s, was found deceased near Hawaiʻi Belt Road in Nāʻālehu in a pasture, with his death being attributed to Lala.[124] Elsewhere, another woman was hospitalized with moderate injuries after she was swept 100 yards away by floodwaters after her home was knocked off its foundation in Waiʻōhinu.[125]
Tropical Storm Moke
A tropical depression formed about 960 miles (1,540 km) east-southeast of Hilo over the Central Pacific on August 20,[126] with the initial intensity being set at 35 mph (55 km/h) based on an earlier ASCAT pass.[127] The next day, based on data obtained by recon, the storm was upgraded to a tropical storm, and received the name Moke.[128] On August 22, Moke reached peak winds of 50 mph (85 km/h), as recorded by recon.[129] On August 23, Moke passed south of the island of Hawaii as a tropical depression.[130] Moke encountered unfavorable conditions and on August 25 at 09:00 UTC, it degenerated into a remnant low.[131]
The NHC noted that although the storm was expected to cause some wind, rain and surf impacts in the Hawaiian Islands, no tropical storm watches or warnings were expected due to the storm's compact nature.[128] Moke threatened Hawaii just a few days after the passage of Lala. Members of the Hawaii Army National Guard and Hawaii Air National Guard were deployed to the southern region of the Big Island to begin storm preparations for Moke in conjunction with ongoing recovery efforts from Lala.[132] Rainfall from the storm reached 4.21 in (107 mm) near Lahaina.[133]
Tropical Storm Iselle
An area of disturbed weather formed south of Mexico on August 21. The system became more organized overnight on August 22 and strengthened into Tropical Storm Iselle the following morning.[134] Despite moderate wind shear, Iselle strengthened further in favorable conditions of warm waters and a moist environment, topping out at 70 mph (115 km/h) and a pressure of 988 mbar (29.2 inHg).[135] However, Iselle began to weaken later on August 25, as a result of cooler sea surface temperatures, persistent wind shear, and dry air.[136] On August 26 at 03:00 UTC, continued unfavorable conditions caused Iselle to degenerate into a post-tropical cyclone.[137]
Iselle generated swells that affected the Revillagigedo Islands and the western coast of Baja California peninsula.[138][139]
Tropical Storm Julio
On August 24, an area of low pressure south of Mexico, few hundred miles south-southwest of Iselle, developed tropical characteristics. As a result, the disturbance was designated Tropical Depression Ten-E.[140] On the next day the depression was upgraded to a tropical storm, receiving the name Julio on August 25 at 09:00 UTC.[141] Julio strengthened a little, and soon reached peak winds of 50 mph (85 km/h) and a peak central pressure of 1,001 mbar (29.56 inHg).[142] Julio had a brief Fujiwhara interaction with nearby Iselle, before being absorbed by it later that evening and dissipating.[143]
Hurricane Karina
Late on August 21, the NHC began noting the potential for an area of disturbed weather to form well southwest of Mexico over the next several days and undergo tropical cyclogenesis.[144] Five days later, an area of low pressure formed in association with a tropical wave well offshore Southwestern Mexico and began to consolidate.[145] At 21:00 UTC on August 27, the system having already attained gale-force winds was upgraded into Tropical Storm Karina.[146] At 09:00 UTC on August 30, Karina was upgraded to a hurricane with winds of 80 mph (130 km/h) and a pressure of 980 mbar (29 inHg).[147] Moving over warm waters near 84 °F (29 °C), Karina rapidly intensified, becoming a major hurricane at 00:00 UTC on August 31,[148] then reaching Category 4 strength later that same day, with sustained winds of 145 mph (235 km/h) and a pressure of 942 mbar (27.8 inHg).[149] After briefly weakening, Karina became an annular hurricane the following day, allowing the storm to maintain higher intensity over cooler waters, and slowing its weakening rate.[150] By September 2, it began to restrengthen, eventually reaching its peak intensity with sustained winds of 145 mph (235 km/h) and a slightly lower central pressure of 940 mbar (28 inHg).[151] Drier air and marginal SSTs eventually worked to weaken the cyclone, and Karina dropped below major hurricane strength on September 3 as it neared the Central Pacific basin.[152] On September 4, at 21:00 UTC, Karina rapidly fell below hurricane status as it encountered more southwesterly shear and more dry air.[153] The trend continued and, on September 7, Karina degenerated into a post-tropical cyclone, and was ultimately absorbed by the nearby weakening Hurricane Lowell early on September 9.[citation needed]
Karina impacted the uninhabited Revillagigedo Islands with rough seas and strong winds.[154][155]
Hurricane Lowell
At 00:00 UTC on August 27, after gaining some organization and a medium chance for development, an area of low pressure was noted by the NHC.[156] At 21:00 UTC on August 27, scatterometer data revealed that the disturbance had developed gale-force winds and was upgraded into Tropical Storm Lowell.[157] Lowell slowly strengthened over the next few days and organized despite easterly wind shear.[158] On September 1 at 15:00 UTC, Lowell attained hurricane strength,[159] and rapidly intensified into a major hurricane by 00:00 UTC on September 2.[160][161] The storm continued rapidly intensifying late that day, becoming a Category 5 hurricane by 21:00 UTC.[162] Lowell became the first Category 5 hurricane in the Central Pacific since Hurricane Walaka in 2018.[163] Lowell weakened below Category 5 status the next day due to an increase in easterly shear.[164] By September 4, at 09:00 UTC, Lowell further weakened to a Category 3 hurricane due to an ongoing eyewall replacement cycle.[165] Later that day, Lowell began to go under another phase of rapid intensification, and reintensified into a Category 5 hurricane by the following day.[166] Soon after, Lowell weakened back to Category 4 due to increasing wind shear.[167] The next day, Lowell weakened further into a Category 3.[168] The next day, Lowell dropped below major hurricane status due to rising wind shear and dropping sea surface temperatures.[169] On September 9, Lowell weakened to a tropical storm due to moderate wind shear and dry air.[170] On September 11, Lowell degenerated into a post-tropical cyclone.[171]
Hurricane Marie
On September 1, the NHC designated a low-pressure system as Tropical Storm Marie.[172] Marie steadily intensified over the Eastern Pacific over the next day, becoming a high-end tropical storm late on September 2.[173] On September 3 at 03:00 UTC, Marie improved its structure and intensified to a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 80 mph (130 km/h).[174] Over the next 24 hours, Marie slowly and steadily intensified, struggling due to dry air, and it became a Category 2 hurricane on September 4, at 03:00 UTC.[175] Marie held its intensity for 24 hours, with dry air mostly restricting the opportunity for further intensification, however the hurricane deepened to 967 mbar (28.6 inHg) that evening.[176] Early the following day, Marie had weakened to high-end Category 1 intensity.[177] Cooler sea surface temperatures continued to restrict Marie from strengthening as the system fell below hurricane status. By September 8, Marie transitioned into a post-tropical cyclone.
Marie impacted the Revillagigedo Islands with rough seas and tropical-storm and hurricane-force winds.[178][179] Marie also generated swells that caused rough surf and rip current conditions along parts of Southwestern Mexico, Baja California peninsula, and Southern California.[180][181] Small vessels were prohibited from leaving ports in San Jose del Cabo. Classes were also cancelled in Los Cabos and several streets were flooded.[182] High waves in Long Beach, California forced 20 homes to evacuate.[183]
Tropical Storm Norbert
At 12:00 UTC on September 8, the NHC upgraded an area of low pressure to a high chance of developing into a tropical depression.[184] At 21:00 UTC on September 9, scatterometery data revealed a circulation that was slightly elongated but closed, with max winds supporting 35 mph (55 km/h), prompting the designation of Tropical Depression Fourteen-E.[185] On the next day at 09:00 UTC, the NHC upgraded the system to Tropical Storm Norbert.[186] On September 11, Norbert reached winds of 65 mph (105 km/h) and a pressure of 996 mbar (29.4 inHg).[187] Afterward, dry air and wind shear caused the storm to weaken throughout September 12.[188][189] At 15:00 UTC on September 15, the NHC declared Norbert as a remnant low due to lacking organized deep convection.[190]
Norbert brought rough seas and strong winds to the Revillagigedo Islands.[191][192]
Hurricane Nolo
| Category 4 hurricane (SSHWS) | |
  | |
| Duration | September 13 – October 4 (exited basin) |
|---|---|
| Peak intensity | 155 mph (250 km/h) (1-min); 929 mbar (hPa) |
On September 8, the NHC began monitoring an area of interest well south of the Baja California peninsula. A broad low-pressure area developed two days later and gradually became better organized despite moderate wind shear. At 21:00 UTC on September 13, the system developed into Tropical Depression Fifteen-E.[193] Increasingly unfavorable wind shear caused the depression to degenerate into a trough early on September 16, although the NHC continued monitoring the remnants for regeneration.[194][195] Early on September 23, the remnants regenerated into a tropical depression in the central Pacific under the jurisdiction of the CPHC.[196] Later that day, it strengthened into Tropical Storm Nolo and was named by the CPHC.[197] Nolo strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane early on September 25 and reached Category 2 strength later that day.[198][199] Dry air caused it to weaken to Category 1 strength on September 26 as it passed south of the Big Island of Hawaii, but it restrengthened to Category 2 the following day.[200][201] By 09:00 UTC on September 28, Nolo had become an annular hurricane and rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane as a ridge turned it west-northwestward.[202] Increasing wind shear and dry air subsequently caused Nolo to turn sharply eastward and weaken to a tropical storm on September 30.[203] It began reorganizing on October 2 as environmental conditions improved and regained hurricane strength at 21:00 UTC that day.[204][205] Nolo rapidly intensified into a major hurricane on October 3.[206][207] Nolo crossed the International Date Line, after which the CPHC issued its final advisory at 21:00 UTC on October 4 as it transitioned into Typhoon Nolo.[208]
A hurricane watch was issued for Hawaiʻi County late on September 23, followed by a tropical storm warning the next day.[209][210] Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency, and President Donald Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Hawaii.[211][212] Schools, offices, and several parks closed, while some residents were relocated to hotels.[213][214] Heavy rainfall caused flooding, landslides, and road closures across the Big Island, including the Kohala Mountain Road and Route 11. Spencer Beach Park recorded 17.25 in (438 mm) of rain, while wind gusts reached 88 mph (142 km/h) in Olowalu.[215][216] More than 16,000 customers lost power, and several communities later imposed water restrictions.[217][218] The Hōlei Sea Arch at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park also collapsed during the storm.[219] Although Hurricane Nolo caused no significant damage in Hawaii, it brought minor flooding and minimal damage as it passed nearby.[220][221]
Hurricane Odalys
On September 20 at 09:00 UTC, the NHC upgraded an area of low pressure to Tropical Storm Odalys after the system exhibited an increase in convective organization.[222] Several days later on September 22 at 09:00 UTC, amid improved structural organization, the NHC upgraded Odalys into a hurricane.[223] Odalys further intensfied into the sixth major hurricane of the season by 09:00 UTC on September 25, with winds of 115 mph (185 km/h).[224] Later that day at 12:00 UTC, the NHC upgraded Odalys to Category 4 hurricane, with winds of 130 mph (210 km/h) and a pressure of 946 mb (27.94 inHg).[225] Afterward, increasing southwesterly wind shear caused the inner core to decay, and the storm dropped below major hurricane intensity.[226] Strong wind shear, dry air, and cool waters caused Odalys to rapidly weaken and transition into a post-tropical cyclone on September 27.[227] Remnant moisture from Odalys, as well as Hurricane Polo, partially contributed to severe thunderstorms across the Southwest United States on September 28–29.[228]
Hurricane Polo
.jpg)
On September 20, Tropical Depression Seventeen-E formed off the southwest coast of Mexico.[229] Early on the following day, the NHC upgraded the system to Tropical Storm Polo. Under favorable conditions, such as 31 °C (88 °F) waters off the coast of Mexico and limited wind shear, Polo began explosively intensifying, becoming a hurricane by 18:00 UTC[230] and a Category 5 hurricane by 12:00 UTC the following day.[231] Only a few hours later, it reached its initial peak intensity with winds of 180 mph (285 km/h) and a pressure of 892 mbar (26.34 inHg).[232] An eyewall replacement cycle then caused it to weaken to Category 4, but it regained Category 5 intensity by 00:40 UTC on September 24[233] after completing the eyewall replacement cycle. After restrengthening, it weakened to Category 4 strength, before further weakening to a Category 3 by September 27.[234]
The ports of Acapulco, Lázaro Cárdenas, Puerto Marqués and Zihuatanejo were closed to shipping on September 21, and classes were suspended in coastal regions of the states of Guerrero and Michoacán.[235] In Zihuatanejo, heavy rainfall from Polo caused flooding and property damage. At least five vehicles were flooded.[236] Polo brought hurricane-force winds and dangerous swells to the Revillagigedo Islands.[237]
Hurricane Rachel
At 09:00 UTC on September 27, the NHC designated an area of low pressure as Tropical Depression Eighteen-E after having a closed circulation and organized convection.[238] Later that day at 21:00 UTC, the depression strengthened into Tropical Storm Rachel.[239] Rachel gradually strengthened over the next few days, moving northwestward off the coast of Mexico.[240] It reached Category 1 strength at 06:00 UTC on September 30.[241] Rachel intensified into a Category 2 at 06:00 UTC on October 1.[242] Favorable conditions allowed Rachel to further intensify into a Category 3 major hurricane, reaching peak intensity with 1-minute sustained winds of 120 mph (195 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 950 mbar (28.05 inHg).[243] Afterwards, Rachel would weaken slowly as it moved westward, remaining a hurricane for six more days while fluctuating in intensity.[243][244] Rachel lost hurricane-strength winds on October 8, however it began to turn northeastward the following day towards Baja California.[245] This prompted the second-ever issuing of a tropical storm watch for California, in addition to tropical storm warnings issued across the northern portion of Baja California.[246][247]
On September 30, Rachel caused flooding in Lázaro Cárdenas.[248] Classes were cancelled in 30 municipalities across Jalisco and at the University of Guadalajara.[249] Several streets in Puerto Vallarta were closed due to storm surge flooding. The Malécon Boardwalk was also closed for several days due to rough waves.[250] A beachfront shop was compromised due to damage from waves in Puerto Vallarta, as well.[251] Rachel brought hurricane-force winds to the Revillagigedo Islands and generated rough seas across the western coast of Baja California peninsula.[252][253] In Mohave County, Arizona, heavy rainfall triggered flash flood warnings on October 11, and wind gusts reached 63 mph (101 km/h) at the Lake Havasu City Airport.[254] In California, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson stated that eight structures across 13 addresses were marked as unsafe to be occupied due to high surf and severe coastal erosion on October 10.[255][256] Las Vegas broke their daily rainfall record for October 11 and tied their wettest October day on record with 1.08 in (27 mm) of rain.[257] Aon plc estimated that losses from Rachel totaled to more than US$100 million and that eight people were killed by the storm.[258]
Tropical Depression Nineteen-E
On September 23, the NHC began tracking an area of interest located well east-southeast of Hawaii.[259] Three days later, an area of low pressure formed and became more organized as it moved to the northeast.[260] The NHC upgraded the system to Tropical Depression Nineteen-E at 15:00 UTC on September 29 as it developed deep convection and an organized circulation.[261] Facing wind shear and dry air, the system's convection largely deteriorated hours later, and its low-level center became exposed.[262] The following day, convection began to re-organize, and the depression re-strengthened slightly, in spite of hostile conditions.[263] However, the strengthening was brief, as the system began to deteriorate shortly after.[264] The system then opened up to a trough on October 1.[265]
Hurricane Simon
On September 29, the NHC began tracking an area of interest south of southern Mexico.[266] On October 7, the NHC upgraded the low to a depression, assigning it the designation Twenty-E.[267] Later that day, the depression intensified to a tropical storm and was given the name Simon.[268] On October 9 at 03:00 UTC, the NHC upgraded the system to a hurricane.[269] The system then rapidly intensified into a Category 2 hurricane due to favorable conditions. It was noted at this time that the system was highly compact with a characteristic pinhole eye, with a radius of maximum winds of about five nautical miles.[270] Simon further strengthened into a high-end Category 4 hurricane, with sustained winds of 155 mph (250 km/h) and a pressure of 928 mbar (27.40 inHg).[271]
Aon plc estimated that losses from Simon totaled to more than US$10 million and that five people were killed by the storm.[258]
Hurricane Trudy
On October 6, the NHC noted that an area of interest south of Guatemala formed.[272] On October 13, the NHC upgraded the low to a tropical depression, designating it as 21E.[273] Later that day, the depression intensified into a tropical storm and was given the name Trudy.[274] Then, on October 15, it intensified into a hurricane.[275] The next morning Trudy intensified to Category 3 strength, with sustained winds of 120 mph (195 km/h).[276] Later the next day, Trudy weakened below major hurricane intensity.[277]
Storm names
The following list of names is being used for named storms that form in the North Pacific Ocean east of 140°W during 2026.[278] This is the same list used in the 2020 season.
For storms that form in the North Pacific from 140°W to the International Date Line, the names come from a series of four rotating lists. Names are used one after the other without regard to year, and when the bottom of one list is reached, the next named storm receives the name at the top of the next list.[278] Three named storms, listed below, have formed within the area in 2026. Named storms in the table above that cross into the area during the season are noted (*).
|
Season effects
The following is a table which includes all of the storms that have formed in the 2026 Pacific hurricane season. It includes their duration, names, intensities, areas affected, damages, and death totals. Deaths in parentheses are additional and indirect (an example of an indirect death would be a traffic accident), but were still related to that storm. Damage and deaths include totals while the storm was extratropical, a wave, or a low, and all of the damage figures are in 2026 USD.
| Saffir–Simpson scale | ||||||
| TD | TS | C1 | C2 | C3 | C4 | C5 |
| Storm name |
Dates active | Storm category at peak intensity |
Max 1-min wind mph (km/h) |
Min. press. (mbar) |
Areas affected | Damage (US$) |
Deaths | Ref(s). | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amanda | June 2–7 | Tropical storm | 50 (85) | 1003 | None | None | None | |||
| Boris | June 7–9 | Tropical storm | 50 (85) | 1000 | Southern Mexico | $100 million | 4 | |||
| Cristina | June 8–10 | Tropical storm | 50 (85) | 1002 | Central America, Southern Mexico | >$150,000 | 7 | |||
| Douglas | July 1–3 | Tropical storm | 40 (65) | 1003 | None | None | None | |||
| Elida | July 14–20 | Tropical storm | 70 (110) | 990 | Clarion Island, Coastal California | None | None | |||
| Fausto | July 19–29 | Category 2 hurricane | 105 (165) | 967 | Revillagigedo Islands, Hawaiian Islands, Coastal California | None | None | |||
| Genevieve | July 24 – August 2 | Category 5 hurricane | 160 (260) | 924 | Revillagigedo Islands, Baja California peninsula, Southwestern Mexico, Coastal California | None | None | |||
| Hernan | August 12–15 | Tropical storm | 45 (75) | 1003 | None | None | None | |||
| Lala | August 13–28 | Category 4 hurricane | 130 (215) | 947 | Hawaii, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument | $108 million | 3 (1) | [279] | ||
| Moke | August 20–25 | Tropical storm | 50 (85) | 994 | Hawaiian Islands | None | None | |||
| Iselle | August 23–27 | Tropical storm | 70 (110) | 988 | Revillagigedo Islands, Baja California peninsula | None | None | |||
| Julio | August 24–25 | Tropical storm | 50 (85) | 1001 | None | None | None | |||
| Karina | August 27 – September 7 | Category 4 hurricane | 145 (230) | 940 | Revillagigedo Islands | None | None | |||
| Lowell | August 27 – September 11 | Category 5 hurricane | 160 (260) | 922 | Hawaiian Islands | $400 million | 3 | [279] | ||
| Marie | September 1–8 | Category 2 hurricane | 100 (155) | 967 | Revillagigedo Islands, Baja California peninsula, Southwestern Mexico, Coastal California | Unknown | None | |||
| Norbert | September 9–15 | Tropical storm | 65 (100) | 996 | Revillagigedo Islands | None | None | |||
| Nolo | September 13 – October 4 | Category 4 hurricane | 155 (250) | 929 | Clarion Island, Hawaii, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (before crossover) | Unknown | None | |||
| Odalys | September 20–27 | Category 4 hurricane | 130 (215) | 946 | None | None | None | |||
| Polo | September 20–30 | Category 5 hurricane | 180 (285) | 892 | Southwestern Mexico, Revillagigedo Islands, Baja California peninsula, Northwestern Mexico, West South Central states | >$100 million | 8+ | |||
| Rachel | September 27 – October 11 | Category 3 hurricane | 120 (195) | 950 | Southwestern Mexico, Revillagigedo Islands, Baja California peninsula, Western United States | >$100 million | 8 | |||
| Nineteen-E | September 29 – October 1 | Tropical depression | 35 (55) | 1002 | None | None | None | |||
| Simon | October 7–16 | Category 4 hurricane | 155 (250) | 928 | Southwestern Mexico, Islas Marías | >$10 million | 5 | |||
| Trudy | October 13–present | Category 3 hurricane | 120 (195) | 956 | Southwestern Mexico | Unknown | None | |||
| Season aggregates | ||||||||||
| 23 systems | June 2 – Season ongoing | 180 (285) | 892 | >$708 million | 31 (1) | |||||
See also
- Weather of 2026
- Tropical cyclones in 2026
- 2026 Atlantic hurricane season
- 2026 Pacific typhoon season
- 2026 North Indian Ocean cyclone season
- South-West Indian Ocean cyclone seasons: 2025–26, 2026–27
- Australian region cyclone seasons: 2025–26, 2026–27
- South Pacific cyclone seasons: 2025–26, 2026–27
