Atlantic Hurricane Season

Atlantic Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30, with the peak season from mid-August to late October. 75% of the forty tropical storm systems that have impacted the New England region in the past century have struck during the months of August and September.

Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage to coastlines and several hundred miles inland. They produce winds exceeding 155 miles per hour as well as tornadoes and microbursts. Additionally, hurricanes can create storm surges along the coast and cause extensive damage from heavy rainfall. Floods and flying debris from the excessive winds are often the deadly and destructive results of these weather events.

Harvard University monitors and plans for a variety of severe weather events including hurricanes. For information on a current severe weather event, visit Harvard University Emergency or your school/department's website.

In addition, information on preparing, responding, and recovering from hurricanes and other severe weather events can be found at EH&S Severe Weather.