NOAA in May forecast a “below‑normal” 2026 Atlantic hurricane season but cautioned that uncertainty remains and urged preparedness, the agency said. The season runs June 1 to Nov. 30, and NOAA projected 3 to 6 total hurricanes and 1 to 3 major hurricanes — Category 3 or stronger with winds above 110 mph.
NOAA storm data show most Mississippi counties were affected by a tropical storm or hurricane during the past 10 years, although the Coast faces the greatest risk, the agency said. NOAA also announced in June that an El Niño had developed and is expected to suppress some Atlantic hurricane activity, but officials said that does not eliminate the need to prepare.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and FEMA offered supply and safety guidance. MEMA recommends a disaster kit with 3 to 7 days of nonperishable food, 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation, flashlights, batteries, a first‑aid kit, prescription medicine, cash and copies of important documents. FEMA publishes a similar checklist, officials said.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation detailed evacuation routes and contraflow plans and urged residents to fill gas tanks, have cash on hand, plan lodging and not rely solely on phone GPS during evacuations, MDOT said. State officials also advised making pet plans in advance; county emergency directors and MEMA post shelter information during storms, and the American Red Cross assists with shelter operations.
Officials warned that nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm, NOAA said, and urged precautions such as avoiding floodwaters and downed power lines, using flashlights instead of candles, operating generators at least 20 feet from homes and leaving immediately if a gas leak is suspected. Agencies recommended residents sign up for Wireless Emergency Alerts, download the FEMA or MEMA apps and keep a weather radio to stay informed.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
