Hurricane Season in the Caribbean and Central America
Every year, from late spring into autumn, the Atlantic and the Caribbean become the stage for some of nature's most powerful phenomena: hurricanes. For millions of people in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico and across Central America, understanding hurricane season is not a curiosity but a matter of safety. This guide explains when it happens, how the strength of these storms is measured and what to do to stay prepared.
When the season runs
The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from 1 June to 30 November, although systems occasionally form before or after those dates. The most active stretch is usually between August and October, when the sea is at its warmest. That warmth is the fuel: hurricanes need oceans above about 26-27 °C to form and strengthen.
The most exposed areas are the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic coast of Central America. That is why countries such as Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Mexico watch each season with particular care.
Tropical storm or hurricane
Not every tropical storm becomes a hurricane. What sets them apart is the sustained wind speed:
- Tropical depression: winds up to 62 km/h. An organised but still weak system.
- Tropical storm: winds of 63 to 118 km/h. It is given a name and can bring heavy rain and flooding.
- Hurricane: sustained winds of 119 km/h or more. This is the most dangerous stage.
It is worth remembering that most casualties are not caused by wind but by water: torrential rain, flooding and the storm surge, the rise in sea level that floods the coast.
The Saffir-Simpson scale
Hurricanes are sorted into five categories based on wind speed:
- Category 1: 119-153 km/h. Minor damage to roofs, trees and power lines.
- Category 2: 154-177 km/h. Considerable damage; possible prolonged power outages.
- Category 3: 178-208 km/h. A major hurricane; serious structural damage.
- Category 4: 209-251 km/h. Severe damage; areas potentially uninhabitable for weeks.
- Category 5: more than 252 km/h. Catastrophic devastation.
From Category 3 upward a storm is called a 'major hurricane'. But be careful: a Category 1 hurricane with very heavy rain can cause more deaths by flooding than a higher category with stronger wind.
Watch versus warning
Authorities issue two types of alert that it is vital not to confuse:
- Watch: tropical storm or hurricane conditions are possible in your area, usually within the next 48 hours. This is the time to review your plan and supplies.
- Warning: these conditions are expected in your area, usually within the next 36 hours. This is the time to act: protect yourself or evacuate if the authorities advise it.
How to prepare
Preparation begins long before the first storm forms. Some key steps:
- Keep an emergency kit with water (at least 3 litres per person per day for several days), non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, a first-aid kit and important documents in a waterproof bag.
- Agree a plan with your family: where to meet, evacuation routes and who to contact.
- Reinforce windows and doors, bring loose objects indoors and trim dangerous branches before the season.
- Keep your phone charged and have a battery radio so you can receive information if the power fails.
- Always follow civil protection instructions. If they order an evacuation, do not wait.
Throughout the season, check the forecast on Meteo Info Online and stay tuned to official bulletins. Getting ahead by a few days can make the difference between riding out the storm calmly and facing it against the clock.