• GDS-MON25_header.jpg

How to Prepare Your Business Based on the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season Predictions

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season may be shaping up to be less active than average. However, if history has taught us anything, it's that "less active" is never the same as "safe."

Colorado State University (CSU) released its initial Atlantic hurricane season predictions for 2026 on April 9, predicting:

  • 13 named storms

  • 6 hurricanes

  • 2 major hurricanes

That falls just below the 1991-2020 historical average. The primary driver behind this outlook is a powerful shift in the climate pattern. Specifically, the expected transition from current weak La Niña conditions into a moderate-to-strong El Niño by the peak of the season may have a significant impact on storm formation.

El Niño is anticipated to drive increased levels of vertical wind shear across the Atlantic Basin, essentially wiping away developing storms before they can organize and intensify. The weather experts might have said to expect a less-than-average season, but in reality, it takes only one storm to make this an active storm season, according to CSU researchers.

Optimism is not a preparedness plan, but caution should be part of it. Read on more to find out how Cotton Global Disaster Solutions (Cotton GDS) can help you stay ahead of the storms.

NEED HELP GETTING PREPARED? CONTACT US

GDS - Hurricane Terms Glossary

The Terminology You Need to Know Before a Storm Forms

Before the first tropical disturbance of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season potentially occurs, it can be extremely helpful to have a clear understanding of the jargon the weather forecasters are using. From tropical depressions to Category 5 hurricanes, each term carries a specific meaning and requires a specific response.

In our hurricane terminology infographic, we broke down 12 hurricane-related terms, providing you with a quick-reference guide your team can keep on hand throughout the season. Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning, or what the cone of uncertainty actually means, could make all the difference in how quickly your business acts when a storm threat looms.

DOWNLOAD NOW

The Mistakes That Could Cost Businesses the Most

Even the most well-intentioned organizations can get caught off guard this 2026 hurricane season, not because they didn't care, but because they didn't plan far enough in advance. In our guide on the Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During Hurricane Preparedness Season, we walk through the most common and costly errors businesses make when preparing for storm season, including:

  1. Waiting too long to initiate emergency protocols

  2. Underestimating the risk because of a quiet forecast

  3. Failing to account for supply chain and operational disruptions

  4. Neglecting vendor and contractor relationships before they're needed

  5. Treating preparedness as a one-size-fits-all checklist

This year's forecast makes mistake #2 especially dangerous. Below-average hurricane season predictions in 2026 are not a reason to underprepare. Get ready today with Cotton’s hurricane preparedness checklist for businesses so you can set your property on the path toward resiliency.

Non-Generic Preparation Guide for Your Industry

A hospital, a data center, a manufacturing plant and a retail operation will all face the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season very differently. Flooding affects them with unique impacts; power outages hit their operations on different timelines, and therefore, recovery looks different for each organization.

That's why generic preparedness plans often fall short. Cotton GDS’ guide on Tailored Hurricane Preparation for Your Industry explores the specific risks and recommended protocols for different industries.

Healthcare facilities might have a preparedness plan to accommodate continuous patient care and supply chain management operations, whereas the energy and industrial sectors will be more focused on building and location safety and logistics. At the end of the day, the businesses that recover fastest are the ones that are prepared with their unique operations in mind.

How Cotton GDS Supports Emergency Planning and Storm Preparation

Cotton GDS is trusted by commercial property owners and business leaders nationwide for our proven track record in emergency planning and storm preparation. With decades of experience responding to hurricanes and natural disasters, Cotton delivers rapid, reliable support before, during and after the storm.

Our team of experts helps businesses identify risks, implement custom preparedness strategies, and recover quickly with minimal disruption. From checklists to comprehensive recovery services, Cotton GDS stands ready 24/7 with the resources, scale and commitment you need to protect what matters most.

Start Your Hurricane Planning With Cotton Today

Every moment counts when a storm is approaching. That's why Cotton GDS offers more than just recovery — we ensure you're equipped with the resources to prepare long before landfall.

Visit Cotton’s Hurricane Resource Hub, download our hurricane preparedness checklist for businesses today or contact us directly to take control of your storm preparation throughout hurricane season. This year’s forecast may say "below average,” but your preparedness should always go above and beyond.

REQUEST A FREE BUSINESS CONTINUITY CONSULT NOW!