Pacific Basin Experiences Unusual Surge in 2026 Tropical Cyclone Activity

• As of September 28, 2026, the northeastern and central Pacific basins recorded 20 named storms, significantly exceeding the 1991–2020 average of 13.5 by that date.
• Hurricane Polo caused landfall-related impacts in Mexico, while Hurricane Nolo delivered heavy rainfall and flooding to the Hawaiian Islands.
• The region's accumulated cyclone energy is currently more than double the standard norm.

Significant Storm Impacts

• Hurricane Polo: Reached Category 5 status on September 22 before weakening to a Category 2 storm during its landfall in Baja California Sur on September 28; it later made a second landfall near Guaymas.
• Hurricane Nolo: Dropped over 12 inches (30 cm) of rain on Maui and the Island of Hawaiʻi, causing landslides and road closures.
• Other Systems: Tropical Storm Rachel and Post-Tropical Cyclone Odalys contributed to treacherous conditions along the Mexican coast and the southwestern United States.

Meteorological Context

• El Niño Influence: Since June, ongoing El Niño patterns have increased equatorial Pacific water temperatures and reduced wind shear, creating favorable conditions for rapid storm intensification.
• Data and Support: NASA’s Disasters Program is coordinating with FEMA to provide mapping and satellite data to support local recovery and response efforts, particularly in Hawaii.