National Hurricane Center: America’s Hurricane Forecasting Authority
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is a division of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) responsible for monitoring tropical cyclones and providing forecasts, watches, warnings, and other information about hurricanes and tropical storms. Its mission is to help protect lives and property by providing timely and reliable information about hazardous tropical weather.
What Does the National Hurricane Center Do?
The NHC continuously monitors tropical weather systems, particularly in the North Atlantic and eastern North Pacific. Its specialists analyze satellite observations, weather models, aircraft data, ocean conditions, and other information to assess developing storms.
The center provides:
Hurricane and tropical-storm forecasts
Tropical Weather Outlooks
Watches and warnings
Storm-track forecasts
Wind-speed probabilities
Storm-surge information
Marine forecasts
Educational hurricane information
Hurricane Tracking
One of the NHC's most recognizable products is its forecast track, which helps communicate where a tropical cyclone could potentially move.
The center also provides information about the expected timing and potential impacts of tropical systems. However, forecasts can change as new weather observations become available.
The 2026 Hurricane Season
The NHC is currently monitoring tropical activity across the Atlantic, eastern Pacific and central Pacific basins. As of August 31, 2026, the NHC website reports active advisories in the eastern Pacific for Hurricane Karina and in the central Pacific for Tropical Storm Lowell. The Atlantic currently has no tropical cyclones.
Why the NHC Is Important
Hurricanes can produce several hazards, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, storm surge and dangerous ocean conditions. The NHC's forecasts help emergency managers, government agencies, businesses and communities prepare for potential impacts.
The organization also works with the National Weather Service and emergency-management authorities to communicate changing risks.
Where Is the National Hurricane Center?
The National Hurricane Center is located in Miami, Florida, on the campus of Florida International University. It operates as part of NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Prediction.
Conclusion
The National Hurricane Center plays a critical role in hurricane forecasting and public safety in the United States and surrounding regions. By monitoring tropical systems and issuing forecasts and warnings, the NHC helps communities understand potential hurricane threats and make informed preparations.