Colorado State University has issued its preliminary forecast for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, predicting above-average storm activity for the upcoming year.

The university's annual forecast calls for 13 named storms to develop during the 2026 season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. Of those predicted storms, six are expected to strengthen into hurricanes with sustained winds of at least 74 mph.

Colorado State University's Tropical Meteorology Project has been issuing seasonal Atlantic hurricane forecasts since 1984, making it one of the most closely watched early predictions for storm activity. The forecasts are based on statistical models that analyze various atmospheric and oceanic conditions.

The long-range forecast comes as meteorologists continue to study patterns that influence Atlantic hurricane development, including sea surface temperatures, wind shear patterns, and broader climate cycles that can either suppress or enhance tropical storm formation.

The 2026 forecast will likely be updated multiple times as the hurricane season approaches, with more detailed predictions typically released in the spring months leading up to the official start of the season.