2026 Hurricane Season Preparedness

An Important Message for MGCCC Employees and Students

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins Monday, June 1 and runs through November 30. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College has comprehensive plans in place to address potential storms, storm surges, and flooding. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we encourage all employees and students to review and update their emergency contact information and personal preparedness plans.

Be Informed: 2026 Hurricane Forecast

Forecasters with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Weather Service are predicting a below-normal hurricane season for the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs Monday, June 1 to November 30, predicts a 35 percent chance of a near-normal season, a 10 percent chance of an above-normal season, and a 55 percent chance of a below-normal season.

The agency is forecasting a total of 8-14 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 3-6 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1-3 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5 with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA has a 70 percent confidence in these ranges. An average season has 14 named storms with seven hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. 

Despite the encouraging prediction, there is always a potential for hurricanes hitting the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It is critical for all members of the MGCCC community to remain vigilant and prepared.

Stay Connected During Emergencies

Clear and timely communication is essential during severe weather. MGCCC will share official updates through the following channels:

• Regroup Mass Notification System: Receive emergency messages via text, phone call, and email. To ensure you’re signed up, log in to MyGulfCoast, select General Information, and update your Emergency Contact Information.
• MGCCC Website & Social Media: Periodic updates will be posted at mgccc.edu, on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Public Media Outlets: In the event of evacuation, important information will be broadcast through local TV, radio, newspapers, and Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB). MPB radio frequencies are posted along evacuation routes across the state.

The college administration will continue to monitor tropical activity and issue updates when necessary throughout the hurricane season. Updates will be posted to the MGCCC website and shared through the college’s communication channels.

Personal Emergency Preparedness

Employees and students are encouraged to review their personal emergency weather plans. In addition to updating your contact information, take time to prepare a home emergency kit that includes:

• Water: At least 5 gallons per person (3- to 5-day supply)
• Non-perishable food: Enough for 3 to 5 days
• First-aid kit and manual
• Battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Water purification supplies (e.g., bleach, purification tablets)
• Prescription medications and medical supplies
• Baby supplies, if needed (formula, diapers, etc.)
• Personal hygiene items
• Cleaning wipes for sanitation
• Car emergency kit (food, flares, jumper cables, maps, tools, fire extinguisher, etc.)

Helpful Resources

For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit the following sites:

• NOAA Hurricane Preparedness
• Mississippi Public Broadcasting
• Weather Underground Hurricane Tracker
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes
• Mississippi Emergency Management Agency
• MDOT Traffic
• Red Cross Emergency Apps
• CDC Hurricane Safety Guide

MGCCC prioritizes the safety and well-being of our employees and students. Thank you for doing your part to prepare and stay informed this hurricane season.