# How many Eastern Pacific named storms will there be this year?

Eastern Pacific in 2026

Updated: August 20, 2026

Category: Climate and Weather

Tags: Hurricanes

HTML: /markets/climate-and-weather/hurricanes/how-many-eastern-pacific-named-storms-will-there-be-this-year/

## Short Answer

**Key takeaway.** Both the **model** and the **market** expect Above 16 Eastern Pacific named storms, with a strengthening El Niño and an above-average season pace as of August 20, 2026, strongly favoring this outcome.

## Key Claims (January 2026)

**- - Above 18 named storms is favored by a strengthening El Niño.** - Current storm pace exceeds average as of August 20, 2026.
- Historic El Niño persistence strongly favors storm counts above 24.

### Why This Matters (GEO)

- AI agents extract claims, not arguments.
- Improves citation probability in summaries and answer cards.
- Enables fact stitching across multiple sources.

## Executive Verdict

**Key takeaway.** A strengthening El Niño drives the **model**'s **90%** **probability**, above the 50c **market** price, implying a 2.0x multiple.

### Who Wins and Why

| Outcome | Market | Model | Why |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Above 18 | 50.0% | 90.0% | The season is ahead of its average pace, and a strengthening El Niño favors above-normal activity. |
| Above 19 | 53.0% | 85.0% | The season is ahead of its average pace, and a strengthening El Niño favors above-normal activity. |
| Above 20 | 30.0% | 80.0% | The season is ahead of its average pace, and a strengthening El Niño favors above-normal activity. |

## Model vs Market

| Outcome | Market Probability | Octagon Model Probability |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Above 18 | 50.0% | 90.0% |
| Above 19 | 53.0% | 85.0% |
| Above 20 | 30.0% | 80.0% |
| Above 16 | 88.0% | 98.0% |
| Above 17 | 87.0% | 95.0% |
| Above 22 | 37.0% | 75.0% |
| Above 26 | 89.0% | 65.0% |
| Above 24 | 86.0% | 70.0% |

- Expiration: December 1, 2026

## Market Behavior & Price Dynamics

This market, which resolves based on the total number of named storms in the 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season, has seen a significant downward revision in expectations. The contract tracking an "Above 18" storm count opened at a 69.0% probability and has since fallen to 50.0%. The primary price action was a single, sharp drop of 19.0 percentage points on August 7, 2026. This repricing likely reflects the season's activity level falling short of initial forecasts. NOAA's pre-season outlook called for 15-22 named storms, but as of August 20, only 8 had been recorded.

The price has established a new support level at 50.0%, where it has remained since the early August drop. The prior 69.0% level represents the market's initial, more bullish sentiment that has since been abandoned. The chart suggests a decisive shift from a belief in a high-probability active season to pricing the outcome as a 50/50 proposition.

Notably, the total traded volume for this contract is zero. The price movements reflect adjustments in bid and ask prices from market makers rather than a consensus formed through executed trades. This lack of volume indicates that while sentiment has clearly shifted, there is no demonstrated market conviction behind the current 50.0% price level. The price action is purely sentiment-driven, based on available public data versus actual capital being put to work.

## Significant Price Movements

### Outcome: Above 26

#### 📈 August 19, 2026: 81.0pp spike

Price increased from 8.0% to 89.0%

**What happened:** The provided web research does not identify a primary driver for the 81.0 percentage point spike in the prediction market for "Above 26 Eastern Pacific named storms" on August 19, 2026. Official forecasts from NOAA predict 15-22 named storms, with private organizations like AccuWeather and Climate Impact Company also forecasting ranges well below 26 named storms for the 2026 season [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/). As of August 19-20, 2026, only 8 named storms had formed in the Eastern Pacific basin [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac). No social media activity, traditional news, or market structure factors supporting such an extreme forecast or market movement are evident in the provided sources. Therefore, social media activity appears to be irrelevant, as no related content was found.

### Outcome: Above 22

#### 📉 August 12, 2026: 16.0pp drop

Price decreased from 31.0% to 15.0%

**What happened:** The 16.0 percentage point drop in the "Above 22" outcome on August 12, 2026, appears to be primarily driven by a market reassessment of the actual storm formation rate compared to the high threshold of the outcome. While initial forecasts predicted 15-22 named storms [[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677), only 8 named storms had formed in the Eastern Pacific basin by August 20, 2026 [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac). This slow pace, despite being slightly above the historical average for that date [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac), likely reduced confidence that the total number of storms would exceed 22 by the end of the season. Based on the provided sources, social media was irrelevant as a primary driver.

### Outcome: Above 18

#### 📉 August 07, 2026: 19.0pp drop

Price decreased from 69.0% to 50.0%

**What happened:** The 19.0 percentage point drop for the "Above 18" outcome on August 07, 2026, likely stemmed from market participants adjusting expectations for the Eastern Pacific hurricane season. Although NOAA and AccuWeather had projected 15-22 named storms overall for the season, with El Niño conditions expected to increase activity [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/index.shtml), the observed pace of storm development by early August appeared to be slower than anticipated. Given that only 8 named storms had formed by August 19-20 [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026), this suggests a deceleration that likely led to reduced confidence in exceeding 18 total named storms. Social media was irrelevant to this price movement, as no pertinent activity was identified in the provided information.

## Contract Snapshot

For this prediction market, a "Yes" resolution for a contract (e.g., "Above N") occurs if the total number of Eastern Pacific named storms this year is greater than the specified threshold N. A "No" resolution occurs if the number of named storms is less than or equal to N. All contracts related to this market are expected to resolve by December 1, 2026.

## Market Discussion

As of August 20, 2026, the Eastern Pacific basin has seen 8 named storms during the 2026 season [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026). Forecasters like NOAA and AccuWeather predicted an active season of 15–22 and 17–22 named storms respectively, largely due to expected El Niño conditions [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_Pacific_hurricane_season)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/). Prediction market participants show uncertainty about exceeding 18-20 named storms as of mid-August 2026, a sentiment echoed by some social media discussions that express skepticism towards seasonal outlooks and debate climate pattern impacts [[^]](https://predictmarketcap.com/events/will-there-be-more-than-26-named-storms-in-the-eastern-pacific-in-2026-dec-1-2026)[[^]](https://predictionmarketspicks.com/weather)[[^]](https://www.facebook.com/ametsoc/posts/noaa-released-its-outlook-for-the-2026-eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-stating-/1406090718225268/)[[^]](https://www.city-data.com/forum/hurricanes/3523219-2026-hurricane-season-general-thread-atlantic.html).

## Market Data

| Contract | Yes Bid | Yes Ask | Last Price | Volume | Open Interest |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Above 16 | 88% | 92% | 88% | $231.69 | $231.69 |
| Above 17 | 77% | 84% | 87% | $225 | $225 |
| Above 18 | 50% | 66% | 50% | $756.69 | $212.89 |
| Above 19 | 37% | 53% | 53% | $289.14 | $241.4 |
| Above 20 | 25% | 39% | 30% | $244.41 | $100.82 |
| Above 22 | 10% | 28% | 37% | $205.21 | $204.95 |
| Above 24 | 3% | 16% | 86% | $44.27 | $39.27 |
| Above 26 | 2% | 12% | 89% | $170.2 | $169.2 |

## How do the 2026 Eastern Pacific season forecasts from NOAA and AccuWeather compare in methodology and historical accuracy?

NOAA 2026 Named Storms Forecast | 15-22 [[^]](https://eos.org/articles/noaa-forecasts-a-below-average-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://admeter.usatoday.com/story/weather/2026/05/21/2026-noaa-hurricane-season-forecast-released/90143765007/) |
AccuWeather 2026 Named Storms Forecast | 17-22 [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexico-this-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075)[[^]](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2026/05/06/pacific-hurricane-season/9181778106693/) |
NOAA 2026 Above-Normal Season Probability | 70% [[^]](https://eos.org/articles/noaa-forecasts-a-below-average-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://admeter.usatoday.com/story/weather/2026/05/21/2026-noaa-hurricane-season-forecast-released/90143765007/) |

**Both NOAA and AccuWeather anticipate an active 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season**

Both NOAA and AccuWeather anticipate an active 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season. NOAA forecasted an above-normal season with a **70%** **probability**, predicting 15-22 named storms, 9-14 hurricanes, and 5-9 major hurricanes [[^]](https://eos.org/articles/noaa-forecasts-a-below-average-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://admeter.usatoday.com/story/weather/2026/05/21/2026-noaa-hurricane-season-forecast-released/90143765007/). AccuWeather similarly projected an active season, anticipating 17-22 named storms, 9-13 hurricanes, and 4-8 major hurricanes [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexico-this-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075)[[^]](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2026/05/06/pacific-hurricane-season/9181778106693/). Both organizations based their 2026 forecasts on the influence of a developing El Niño, which typically leads to reduced vertical wind shear and increased sea surface temperatures in the Eastern Pacific, promoting more active conditions [[^]](https://morningoverview.com/noaa-now-expects-as-many-as-14-hurricanes-in-the-eastern-pacific-this-year/)[[^]](https://admeter.usatoday.com/story/weather/2026/05/21/2026-noaa-hurricane-season-forecast-released/90143765007/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexico-this-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075).

Methodological comparisons highlight significant differences in forecasting practices and transparency. AccuWeather, citing private studies such as the Kantar report on the 2024 hurricane season, claims higher accuracy compared to NOAA's National Hurricane Center (NHC) [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Kantar-report-on-the-2024-Hurricane-Season.pptx-1.pdf). However, these claims face challenges from critics and the broader meteorological community [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Kantar-report-on-the-2024-Hurricane-Season.pptx-1.pdf)[[^]](https://courierpostonline.com/story/weather/2025/05/29/accuweather-nhc-national-hurricane-service-accurate/83873311007/). NOAA's NHC maintains transparent, rigorous, and open-source verification protocols for its official forecasts, a practice often not matched by private firms [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Kantar-report-on-the-2024-Hurricane-Season.pptx-1.pdf)[[^]](https://courierpostonline.com/story/weather/2025/05/29/accuweather-nhc-national-hurricane-service-accurate/83873311007/).

## Beyond ENSO, what role are other climate signals like the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) expected to play in the final months of the 2026 season?

2026 Eastern Pacific Named Storms Forecast | 15-22 [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season) |
Named Storms (as of Aug 20, 2026) | 8 [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026) |
Tropical Cyclone Formation Expectation | Through early September 2026 [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/index.php) |

**The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and strong El Niño will boost Eastern Pacific activity**

The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and strong El Niño will boost Eastern Pacific activity. The MJO is expected to interact with a strong El Niño during the latter part of the 2026 season, influencing activity in the Eastern Pacific. NOAA forecasts indicate that these combined climatic factors will likely lead to an active East Pacific, with several tropical cyclone formations anticipated through the beginning of September 2026 [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/index.php).

Current conditions already favor increased Eastern Pacific tropical activity. As of August 20, 2026, the MJO is contributing to an environment conducive to tropical cyclone genesis in the Eastern Pacific, working alongside existing strong El Niño conditions [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/index.php)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/ghaz/). NOAA's official seasonal forecast for the 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season projects an above-average season, with an expectation of 15 to 22 named storms. To date, through August 20, 2026, the Eastern Pacific basin has observed 8 named storms [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026).

## How does the current pace of storm formation as of August 2026 compare to historical averages for past high-activity El Niño years?

Named storms (2026 season as of Aug 20) | 8 (one more than 1991-2020 average) [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac) |
El Niño persistence chance (through winter 2026-27) | Greater than 90% [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso/roni/probabilities/) |
NOAA's predicted named storms (2026 season) | 15-22 [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.amwins.com/resources-and-insights/market-insights/article/a-look-ahead-to-hurricane-season-2026) |

**Eastern Pacific storm formation currently exceeds the seasonal average due to El Niño**

Eastern Pacific storm formation currently exceeds the seasonal average due to El Niño. As of August 20, 2026, the Eastern Pacific has recorded 8 named storms, which is one more than the 1991-2020 seasonal average for this time of year [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac). The 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season is characterized by a very strong El Niño event, projected with a greater than **90%** chance of persisting through winter 2026-27 [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso/roni/probabilities/). However, specific historical average storm formation rates for past high-activity El Niño years as of August are not available for a direct comparison against the current pace.

Strong El Niño increases Eastern Pacific storm activity, prompting higher season forecasts. Historically, very strong (Super) El Niño events correlate with elevated storm activity in the Eastern Pacific, typically leading to 13-18 named storms for a full season [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/index.shtml)[[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.amwins.com/resources-and-insights/**market**-insights/article/a-look-ahead-to-hurricane-season-2026). Reflecting these expectations for above-normal activity driven by current El Niño conditions, NOAA's official outlook for the 2026 Eastern Pacific season predicts a range of 15-22 named storms, 9-14 hurricanes, and 5-9 major hurricanes [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.amwins.com/resources-and-insights/**market**-insights/article/a-look-ahead-to-hurricane-season-2026).

## What do recent sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly charts from NOAA's Climate Prediction Center indicate for storm potential through the rest of the 2026 season?

El Niño SST Anomaly | Exceeding +2.0°C in equatorial Pacific (NOAA CPC) [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf) |
Eastern Pacific Season Outlook | Above-normal (NOAA CPC) [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/) |
Predicted Named Storms (2026) | 15-22 (NOAA CPC) [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/) |

**El Niño is strengthening, expected to become very strong by winter**

El Niño is strengthening, expected to become very strong by winter. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) confirmed a strengthening El Niño by August 20, 2026, with sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the equatorial Pacific exceeding +2.0°C [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf). These SST anomalies were observed increasing across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific in June 2026 [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/CDB/Tropics/tropics.shtml). There is a greater than **90%** chance that this El Niño event will develop into a very strong event through the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter 2026-27 [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf).

An above-normal Eastern Pacific hurricane season is anticipated. Consequently, the CPC projects an above-normal Eastern Pacific hurricane season for 2026, an outlook that remains unchanged as of its mid-August updates [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/). The CPC indicates a **70%** **probability** for an above-normal season, **20%** for near-normal, and **10%** for below-normal [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/). The official 2026 outlook predicts 15-22 named storms, 9-14 hurricanes, and 5-9 major hurricanes, with an Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) range of **120%**-**190%** of the median [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/).

The Eastern Pacific has already seen eight named storms. Private forecasting organizations have also provided similar projections for the 2026 season, estimating 17-22 named storms [[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/). As of August 20, 2026, the Eastern Pacific basin had already experienced eight named storms [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026).

## What changes in El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions through October 2026 could significantly alter the final storm count?

El Niño persistence probability | Greater than 90% (through fall/winter 2026-2027) [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf)[[^]](https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/climate/forecasts/enso/current/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_disc_jul2026/ensodisc.shtml) |
Chance of historic El Niño levels | 69% (exceeding 1950 levels) [[^]](https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/climate/forecasts/enso/current/) |
Forecasted 2026 Eastern Pacific named storms | 17-22 named storms [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075) |

**A very strong El Niño is expected to persist through late 2026**

A very strong El Niño is expected to persist through late 2026. As of August 20, 2026, a powerful El Niño event is actively strengthening, with over a **90%** chance of continuing through the fall and winter of 2026-2027 [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf)[[^]](https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/climate/forecasts/enso/current/)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_disc_jul2026/ensodisc.shtml). This event carries a **69%** **probability** of reaching historic intensity, potentially surpassing all recorded levels since 1950 [[^]](https://iri.columbia.edu/our-expertise/climate/forecasts/enso/current/). El Niño is projected to be the primary climate driver through the end of 2026 [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/enso_evolution-status-fcsts-web.pdf)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_disc_jul2026/ensodisc.shtml).

Strong El Niño conditions historically increase Eastern Pacific hurricane activity. These conditions are linked to factors such as reduced vertical wind shear and higher ocean heat content, typically resulting in an average of 13–18 named storms during such years [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075)[[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/index.shtml). Forecasts for the 2026 season indicate above-normal activity, with predictions ranging from 17 to 22 named storms [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/el-nino-to-fuel-pacific-hurricane-season-increase-risks-for-california-hawaii-mexico/1888075). A May 2026 seasonal outlook specifically projected 22 named storms, 13 hurricanes, and 9 intense hurricanes for the Eastern Pacific basin [[^]](https://climateimpactcompany.com/east-pacific-2026-hurricane-outlook-13-hurricanes-forecast-in-2026-above-normal-impacts-to-mexico-southwest-u-s-southern-california-western-gulf-of-mexico-and-hawaii-2-2/). As of August 20, 2026, eight named storms had already been recorded in the Eastern Pacific basin for the season [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026).

El Niño introduces intrabasin variability, with no other significant changes expected. While overall Eastern Pacific activity generally increases, El Niño can lead to enhanced activity in the western part of the basin, but suppressed activity in the eastern nearshore area due to intensified Central American Gap Winds [[^]](https://repository.library.noaa.gov/view/noaa/24060/noaa_24060_DS1.pdf)[[^]](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-01962-3.pdf?error=cookies_not_supported&code=f33f420b-8df1-4c21-a3d3-6ee8269d96d1). The research does not identify other changes in El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions through October 2026 that could significantly alter the final storm count from projections based on the current strong and strengthening El Niño conditions.

## What Could Change the Odds

**The 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season is forecast to be above average, with outlooks from NOAA and AccuWeather projecting between 15 and 22 named storms for the entire season [[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677).** The primary bullish catalyst for this elevated activity is an exceptionally strong, potentially 'Super' El Ni

**ño event, which reduces vertical wind shear and provides enhanced oceanic heat, significantly favoring tropical cyclone development in the Pacific [[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-maintains-prediction-for-below-normal-atlantic-hurricane-season)[[^]](https://www.accuweather.com/en/press/elevated-risk-of-tropical-impacts-for-hawaii-southern-california-and-mexicothis-pacific-hurricane-season/1888677)[[^]](https://inigoinsurance.com/catastrophe-research/a-big-el-nino-event-is-likely-in-2026-but-whats-the-context-behind-the-headlines-and-what-are-the-global-implications/)[[^]](https://www.munichre.com/en/insights/natural-disaster-and-climate-change/2026-tropical-cyclone-season-is-approaching.html)[[^]](https://weather.com/2026/07/30/storms/hurricane/super-el-nino-hurricane-season-atlantic-pacific).** NOAA's 2026 outlook indicated a **96%** chance of El Ni

**Key takeaway.** ño conditions occurring during the 2026 hurricane season [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/index.shtml).

**Key takeaway.** In El Ni

**ño years, the Eastern Pacific typically averages 13-18 named storms [[^]](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/)[[^]](https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/Epac_hurr/index.shtml).** As of August 20, 2026, there have been 8 named storms in the Eastern Pacific basin during the current season [[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/?basin=epac&season=2026)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac)[[^]](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/index.php?basin=epac&season=2026), which officially runs from May 15 through November 30 [[^]](https://headlines.ametsoc.org/2026/05/15/eastern-pacific-hurricane-season-begins/). Prediction markets on Kalshi, as of August 17, 2026, indicated high **confidence** (**88%**) that the total number of named storms will exceed 16, with significant, though lower, **probability** assigned to higher counts (e.g., **30%** chance for above 20 named storms) [[^]](https://predictmarketcap.com/events/will-there-be-more-than-26-named-storms-in-the-eastern-pacific-in-2026-dec-1-2026).

## Key Dates & Catalysts

- **Expiration:** December 08, 2026
- **Closes:** December 01, 2026

## Decision-Flipping Events

- The 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season is forecast to be above average, with outlooks from NOAA and AccuWeather projecting between 15 and 22 named storms for the entire season [^] [^] [^] .
- The primary bullish catalyst for this elevated activity is an exceptionally strong, potentially 'Super' El Ni ño event, which reduces vertical wind shear and provides enhanced oceanic heat, significantly favoring tropical cyclone development in the Pacific [^] [^] [^] [^] [^] [^] .
- NOAA's 2026 outlook indicated a **96%** chance of El Ni ño conditions occurring during the 2026 hurricane season [^] [^] .
- In El Ni ño years, the Eastern Pacific typically averages 13-18 named storms [^] [^] .

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## Historical Resolutions

No historical resolution data available for this series.

## Disclaimer

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