2025 Atlantic season ends with 13 named storms

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season ended on November 30 with 13 named storms recorded, closing what officials described as another above-average year for the region’s weather systems.

The season was the ninth in the past decade to be considered either above normal or extremely active, according to the Department of Disaster Management (DDM).

Director of Disaster Management Jasen Penn said three of this year’s hurricanes — Erin, Humberto and Melissa — reached Category 5 strength, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour. A fourth system, Hurricane Gabrielle, became a Category 4, while Hurricane Imelda peaked at Category 2.

“This is only the second year on record with more than two Category 5 hurricanes,” Penn said, adding that “overall, approximately 3% of storms have strengthened to Category 5”.

Penn noted that researchers have found the total number of hurricanes has remained steady over time, but a higher percentage of them have intensified into “very destructive Category 4 or 5 hurricanes,” he said, adding, “This underscores the importance of preparedness for all of us”.

Four of the five hurricanes that formed this season became major hurricanes. An average Atlantic season typically sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. Accumulated Cyclone Energy — a measure used to estimate a storm’s potential for wind and surge damage — reached 133 this year, above the long-term average of 123.

Hurricane Erin caused the most significant local impact. The storm passed close enough to the territory to drop more than nine inches of rain on Road Town, triggering flooding in low-lying areas and causing mudslides in parts of Tortola. Officials had urged residents throughout the season to remain ready, noting that heavy rainfall has increasingly led to flooding across Tortola and Virgin Gorda in recent years.

Across the wider Caribbean, Hurricane Melissa caused the most severe destruction. The storm resulted in 106 deaths in Jamaica and Haiti and caused an estimated US$10 billion in damage, making it one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record.

The DDM reminded residents that tropical systems can form outside the official June to November window. The department urged the public to remain alert and continue updating household plans, emergency kits and shelter arrangements throughout the year.