Isaias strengthens to become the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season | Hurricane Isaiah

Isaias became the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season, with winds of 80 mph and a minimum pressure of 975 mb. It is expected to become a Category 2 hurricane as it approaches the northern U.S. Gulf Coast on Friday, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Due to the strong El Niño phenomenon, the Atlantic hurricane season has been particularly calm. The first hurricane of the season has not formed this late since October 8, 1905, a date before the era of satellites (1960s) for hurricane tracking, which led to the discovery of more hurricanes that did not make landfall.

Isaias is expected to make landfall Friday evening local time, bringing about 75 to 150 mm of precipitation to the Gulf Coast. There may be up to 250mm in places, with a possibility of flash flooding and isolated river flooding.

NOAA also said there was an increasing likelihood of life-threatening storm surges along parts of the northern Gulf Coast and destructive hurricane-force winds over parts of the Florida Panhandle, southern Alabama and Mississippi. A hurricane warning was issued and people were asked to prepare for extended power outages and to obey any evacuation orders issued.

In Zimbabwe, a state of disaster was declared on Tuesday in the southeastern province of Masvingo after a severe hailstorm caused extensive damage to homes and critical infrastructure.

Preliminary assessments revealed that the roofs of 8,500 houses had been torn off. Another 15,300 people reported broken windows, leaving many exposed to the elements as the rainy season begins.

The country’s electricity infrastructure has been severely affected, disrupting drainage and sewage systems, raising concerns for public health.

In Australia, a rare tornado struck the town of Ulladulla, about 230 km south of Sydney, on October 3. Tornadoes are relatively rare in Australia, where there are around 50 each year. This Ulladulla tornado damaged properties and downed trees.