No Atlantic Threat for Northeast FL & SE GA

DUVAL COUNTY — Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia residents face no immediate tropical threats, despite the Atlantic hurricane season continuing through Nov. 30. The season's peak, Sept. 10, passed without significant local impact.

Meteorologists are monitoring system '99-L,' a low-pressure area over the far Northeast Atlantic. The National Hurricane Center noted potential for tropical or subtropical development due to increased thunderstorms in the area. However, forecasts predict the system will drift slightly south and west, with minimal to no impact on land.

This season has seen unusually low activity. The Accumulated Cyclone Energy index remained at a record low through Sept. 16, measuring tropical system strength and duration. Additionally, 2026 has set a record for the satellite era, which began in 1966, with no Atlantic hurricanes recorded through and beyond Sept. 11.

Strong wind shear across much of the Atlantic Basin, particularly south of 20 degrees North latitude, is a contributing factor. This condition is characteristic of the current strong Pacific El Niño.

Longer-range models suggest a potentially more active period late this month into early October. These models indicate the Gulf of Mexico and the Southwest Atlantic may become more favorable areas for development.

Residents should maintain hurricane preparedness. Resources include the First Alert Hurricane Preparation Guide and local guides from the City of Jacksonville and the state of Georgia. Taping windows is not recommended; residents should close curtains and blinds instead. The forecast cone of uncertainty shows average forecast error, not storm width or precise damage areas.