Tropical Depression 9 Expected to Become First Atlantic Hurricane of 2026
US forecasters have warned that Tropical Depression 9, currently forming in the Gulf of Mexico, is expected to strengthen into the first Atlantic hurricane of 2026 within the next two days. The National Hurricane Center anticipates the storm will reach tropical storm strength by early Wednesday and pass north of the Yucatan Peninsula before approaching the US northern Gulf Coast on Friday.
The storm's path threatens offshore oil and gas production facilities, as well as onshore refineries, which could further tighten energy markets and drive up gasoline and diesel prices. The affected offshore areas produce 15% of US crude oil and 5% of natural gas, while the forecast landfall area includes six major refineries operated by companies like Shell, Valero Energy, Marathon, PBF Energy, and Chevron. Shell has already begun evacuating non-essential workers from its offshore assets in the region.
Meanwhile, the storm has caused significant damage in the Caribbean, particularly in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where heavy rains have led to flooding, landslides, and blocked roads. The National Hurricane Center noted that another tropical wave is forming off Africa's west coast, adding to the unusual quietness of this year's Atlantic hurricane season due to a strong El Niño.
The last time the first Atlantic hurricane formed this late in the season was October 8, 1905. The current hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and no hurricanes have been reported so far this year.