World Meteorological Organization Releases Official 2026 Hurricane Names

Geneva, Switzerland — The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released the official list of names for tropical cyclones expected to form in the Atlantic Ocean and Eastern North Pacific during the 2026 hurricane season.

The 21 names for Atlantic storms follow alphabetical order, alternate between feminine and masculine, and repeat every six years unless retired due to catastrophic damage. The WMO assigns names only when a system reaches tropical storm strength with sustained winds exceeding 63 kilometers per hour (39 mph). A storm officially becomes a hurricane when winds reach 119 km/h (74 mph).

If more than 21 named tropical cyclones develop in the Atlantic basin during a single season, subsequent storms will receive names from an alternative list approved by the WMO. The organization states that names should be easily recognizable.

2026 Atlantic Hurricane Names

1. Arthur
2. Bertha
3. Cristóbal
4. Dolly
5. Edouard
6. Fay
7. Gonzalo
8. Hanna
9. Isaias
10. Josephine
11. Kyle
12. Leah
13. Marco
14. Nana
15. Omar
16. Paulette
17. Rene
18. Sally
19. Teddy
20. Vicky
21. Wilfred

2026 Eastern North Pacific Hurricane Names

1. Amanda
2. Boris
3. Cristina
4. Douglas
5. Elida
6. Fausto
7. Genevieve
8. Hernán
9. Iselle
10. Julio
11. Karina
12. Lowell
13. Marie
14. Norbert
15. Odalys
16. Polo
17. Rachel
18. Simon
19. Trudy
20. Vance
21. Winnie
22. Xavier
23. Yolanda
24. Zeke

Meteorologists at the U.S. television channel WJCL predict a “below-average” 2026 Atlantic hurricane season with nine to 13 named storms, four to six hurricanes, and up to three major hurricanes.

Despite these professional forecasts, experts remind residents that even one storm impacting their area makes for an active season. People should remain prepared throughout the hurricane period to avoid serious consequences.

In comparison, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted above-normal activity for the Atlantic basin in 2025, forecasting 13 to 19 named storms, with six to 10 becoming hurricanes, including up to five major hurricanes.

“NOAA and the National Weather Service (NWS) use the most advanced weather models and state-of-the-art hurricane tracking systems to provide Americans with real-time storm forecasts and alerts,” Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said in May of last year.