Hurricane Isaias has formed as the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, moving toward the US northern Gulf coast with wind speeds of 80mph. Forecasters expect the storm to reach Category 2 status before making landfall on Friday, bringing threats of flash flooding and river overflows. This season has been unusually quiet due to a strong El Niño event, resulting in the latest appearance of a season's first hurricane since 1905.

Key facts

  • Isaias is recorded with wind speeds of 80mph and a minimum pressure of 975mb.
  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts the storm will strengthen to Category 2.
  • Potential hazards include flash floods and isolated river flooding along the northern Gulf coast.
  • This marks the latest date for a first hurricane of the season since October 8, 1905.

Why it matters

The late arrival of the first hurricane underscores the influence of El Niño on Atlantic weather activity and represents a historical anomaly not seen since before the satellite era began in the 1960s.

The Guardian

Source: The Guardian — World — Read original story