When is Hurricane Season In Puerto Rico? Peak Timing and Earliest Hurricane on Record

It’s an unincorporated territory where the residents understand that hurricanes are a part of their island living. There are a couple of minor storms each year and several have been notable over the years. Learn when hurricane season is in Puerto Rico, including the peak times and the earliest hurricane on record for the island!

Hurricane Season in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a dream environment for those who relish tropical weather. The weather is warm throughout the year, but this U.S. territory also faces the possibility of hurricanes every year. The hurricane season starts in June and runs through November. Peak season, however, is from August through September.

Where Do Hurricanes Normally Hit in Puerto Rico?

The western and eastern regions of Puerto Rico are the most likely to get hit by the impact of hurricanes. Hurricane Fiona hit the southwestern region of Puerto Rico, specifically Punta Tocon. The winds reached 85 miles per hour and the hurricane was classified as Category 1. Hurricane Maria was worse, classified as Category 4. Winds reached 155 miles per hour when it reached Yabucoa.

How Often Do Hurricanes Hit Puerto Rico?

On average, hurricanes make landfall in Puerto Rico about four times each year. It’s an island that sits right on the hurricane belt, which is why the region is so susceptible to these natural disasters. With global temperatures continuing to rise, the risk of hurricanes in Puerto Rico continues to rise with a higher likelihood of increased frequency and intensity.

What Part of Puerto Rico is the Safest From Hurricanes?

No matter the category of the hurricane, it can impact the whole of Puerto Rico. The island is small, so it doesn’t take much for the entire territory to experience the intensity of a hurricane. However, hurricanes often approach from the east, which could make the west coast a safer location. It ultimately depends on the path of the hurricane but with the size of the island, all locations are at risk, especially during the peak months of hurricane season.

Earliest Hurricane on Record in Puerto Rico

The very first recorded hurricane in Puerto Rico occurred on August 16, 1508, during the peak hurricane season. It was Hurricane San Roque that made landfall in Guayanilla. It didn’t affect the entire territory and remained mostly within the southwest coast of Puerto Rico. There have been many more hurricanes since this earliest recorded one, some much more severe than others.