Northeast Florida Safe from Tropical Storms: Mike Buresh

Duval County residents can relax regarding hurricane threats, as current tropical activity poses no direct danger to Northeast Florida or Southeast Georgia. Meteorologist Mike Buresh reported that while the Atlantic hurricane season is active, storms are remaining far from local shores and the St. Johns River.

The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs through Nov. 30, has seen a notable lack of hurricanes making landfall in the region. This year, 2026, has set a record for the satellite era with no Atlantic hurricanes recorded through Sept. 11. Strong wind shear has dominated the Atlantic Basin, a condition often linked to strong El Niño conditions currently present in the Pacific.

While the Atlantic is quiet locally, other ocean basins are active. Hurricane Nolo impacted Hawaii's Big Island in the Central Pacific, though major damage was avoided as the storm tracked south. The Pacific remains active with conditions meteorologists are monitoring.

Local preparedness remains the focus. Residents are reminded that the Atlantic hurricane season peaks around Sept. 10. Resources like the First Alert Hurricane Preparation Guide, the City of Jacksonville Preparedness Guide, and the Georgia Hurricane Guide offer readiness advice for all local residents.

Taping windows is not recommended; closing curtains and blinds is a more effective measure. Residents should understand the forecast cone of uncertainty, which represents average forecast error, not the storm's width or exact path of damage.