The Atlantic hurricane season is off to its slowest start on record in the satellite era, as a powerful El Niño continues to prevent storms from forming.
No hurricanes have developed so far this season, and only five weak tropical storms have formed. Storm activity is just seven per cent of normal for this time of year.
Experts say El Niño is creating strong wind shear, dry air and sinking winds that tear apart developing storms before they can strengthen. Even with record-warm ocean temperatures, those conditions have kept the Atlantic unusually calm.
Meteorologists warn people not to become complacent. A single hurricane can still cause major damage, as Hurricane Andrew did during another late-starting season in 1992.
While the Atlantic remains quiet, the eastern and central Pacific have been much more active, with dozens of named storms and above-average hurricane activity.
