US Hurricane Risk Map: Prepare for the 2026 Hurricane and Tropical Storm Season

Last updated on April 24, 2026

Map Data Source: Colorado State University's Tropical Cyclone Impact Probabilities report

Key Takeaways

  • The US Hurricane Risk Map uses seasonal forecast probability data from Colorado State University to help travelers understand relative hurricane and tropical storm risk by state during the Atlantic hurricane season.
  • While the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to be somewhat below average overall, hurricanes remain unpredictable, and a single storm can still cause significant travel disruption. 
  • Understanding hurricane season timing, forecast limitations, and destination‑specific risk can support more informed trip planning decisions.

How to Use the US Hurricane Risk Map

The US Hurricane Risk Map is based on the most recent hurricane forecast probability data from Colorado State University (CSU), using its Tropical Cyclone Impact (TC Impact) methodology. The map shows the forecast probability that at least one tropical storm or hurricane will impact each state during the current Atlantic hurricane season.

How to check hurricane risk by state

  • Click on any state on the map to open a detailed pop‑up
  • The main percentage shows the probability that at least one named storm (tropical storm or hurricane) will affect that state this season
  • A separate figure shows the chance of a hurricane, indicating storms that reach hurricane strength
  • These probabilities are updated based on the latest available 2026 seasonal forecast data

Use this information to compare relative hurricane risk across states and better understand how storm activity could affect travel to specific destinations during hurricane season.

Traveling During Hurricane Season: What to Know Before You Go

Hurricane season—when tropical storms can seriously disrupt travel—runs from June through November. If you’re planning travel to the Atlantic or Gulf Coast, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, or another hurricane-prone destination, understanding seasonal risk is an important part of trip planning.

According to experts at Colorado State University (CSU), the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to bring lower overall activity compared with recent years. While no forecast can predict where storms will form or make landfall, early projections help travelers better understand risk and plan ahead.

One way travelers prepare is by purchasing travel insurance with assistance services before a storm is named. Travel protection plans from Generali Global Assistance may provide coverage for certain hurricane-related events, depending on the plan and circumstances.

Use the US Hurricane Risk Map above to see the probability of hurricanes or tropical storms affecting states most at risk during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

,,
I've used Generali before and a hurricane interrupted our trip and Generali made reimbursement quick and easy.
Rebecca M. from Texas

What’s Different In 2026

For the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, CSU researchers are projecting somewhat below-average activity, marking a shift from the higher-intensity conditions seen last year.

2026 Atlantic Hurricane Forecast: By the Numbers

CSU’s initial forecast calls for:

  • 13 named storms
  • 6 hurricanes
  • 2 major hurricanes

By comparison, the long-term Atlantic average (1991–2020) includes:

  • 14 named storms
  • 7 hurricanes
  • 3 major hurricanes

While some regions may see fewer storms overall, a single hurricane can still cause significant travel disruption, which is why individual preparedness remains important.

Why 2026 Hurricane Risk Is Forecast to Be Lower

The Biggest Factor: El Niño Conditions

The primary reason for the lower-risk outlook is a developing El Niño pattern in the Pacific Ocean, which is expected to strengthen during the peak of hurricane season.

El Niño typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity by:

  • Increasing vertical wind shear, which disrupts storm formation
  • Making it harder for storms to organize and intensify
  • Shortening the lifespan of developing tropical systems

CSU researchers expect El Niño to be the dominant climate influence in 2026, reversing many of the favorable conditions that supported last year’s more intense storms.

How Hurricanes Can Disrupt Travel Plans

All of our plans may provide coverage for certain events caused by hurricanes, tropical storms, tropical cyclones, and typhoons before the storm is named that can wreck your vacation. Check travel protection plans and prices for your trip now, or keep reading to see why it’s especially important for trips impacted by hurricane season.

Trip Cancellation Coverage for Hurricanes

If you’re forced to cancel your trip, how much of that prepaid trip cost could you get back? Trip Cancellation coverage may help you recoup losses for approximately 20 different types of covered events that could cause you to cancel your travel plans.

You may be eligible for coverage related to storms if coverage was purchased before storm was named and:

  • Your destination is under a mandatory evacuation order
  • Your accommodations are rendered uninhabitable due to a hurricane*
  • Your primary residence becomes uninhabitable, forcing you to cancel your trip*

Trip Interruption Coverage During Storm Disruptions

If your trip is interrupted—for example, due to a canceled or significantly delayed flight caused by storms—it can disrupt the rest of your itinerary.

Trip Interruption coverage may help reimburse:

  • Unused, non-refundable trip costs
  • Additional transportation expenses needed to return home early or rejoin your trip

Some scenarios that may be covered include:

  • A government order to evacuate issued after you arrive at your destination
  • A hurricane that reroutes your flight, significantly delaying your arrival
Hurricane Isaac Near Landfall (NASA)

Medical and Evacuation Coverage During Hurricanes

You may not want to think about a medical emergency in the midst of a hurricane, but that’s a very real possibility. Whether you’re traveling stateside or internationally, the emergency medical provisions in a Generali Global Assistance travel protection plan can help.

If you’re injured in a hurricane while traveling, your medical expenses may be covered. If your injuries are severe enough that you have to be evacuated to the nearest suitable hospital, that may also be covered – up to $1 million per person with the Premium Plan.

Before a storm is forecast near your next trip, consider getting travel protection. Seeing your plan and price options only takes a minute.

10872502604

*Disclaimers
This is for losses occurring within 30 calendar days after the event renders the destination Uninhabitable

Get travel protection with coverage for hurricanes
Average Customer Rating:
Reviews