Today Is The Official Start of Hurricane Season: What The Experts Are Saying
R. Peevy • June 1, 2026
Hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 30
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — Hurricane season officially begins June 1 and last until November 30. So what kind of season are the expert predicting? While some past predictions missed their mark (Sally), hurricane forecasting has made tremendous strides in recent decades.
Currently, NOAA's outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season predicts a 35% chance of a near- normal season, a 10% chance of an above-normal season, and a 55% chance of a below-normal season.
Many locals have experienced at least one major storm and they can be a good source of information for hurricane preparations. In the next few paragraphs will we provide some essential references and local tips about storm prep.
GET YOUR HURRICAN DECAL:
Whether you live in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, the first preparation item is to have a current Hurricane Decal securely affixed to the driver‑side window. Police Chief Dan Netemeyer explains the process for Gulf Shores residents below:
STAY TUNED TO OFFICIAL WEATHER OUTLETS:
Gulf Shores News has a dedicated page for hurricane updates ( gulfshoresnews.com/hurricane-center ), but the source with the most up-to-date storm information will typically be the NOAA station in Mobile.
BASED ON WEATHER UPDATES HAVE AN EVACUATION PLAN:
Most hurricanes turn East upon coming ashore, but not always. Make sure you have thought out a place for relocation if it becomes necessary.
REVIEW IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS:
Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space.
BE TECH READY:
Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
GATHER SUPPLIES FOR A TRIP:
Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, cloth face coverings, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. Make sure to communicate your plans to family and friends.
PREPARE YOUR HOME:
Declutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, consider hurricane shutters. Make sure to secure anything that could fly away in high winds.
HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR:
Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.
CASH:
Have physical cash on hand, as ATMs and credit card machines will not work during power outages.
Local weather outlets should keep you informed about direction and intensity. Make sure to heed their advice, and that of local officials. For further assistance in storms preparations you may want to visit the government's READY website.
Recent Posts
