Cozumel Hurricane Season: What to Know and How to Prepare

Decoding the Hurricane Season in Cozumel: A Cozumel Hurricane Guide

Hey there, fellow travelers! Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway to the beautiful island of Cozumel but worried about the hurricane season? Don’t fret! While Cozumel hurricanes can be powerful, they’re less common than you think. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, only about 11 storms are strong enough to get named each year, with just six becoming hurricanes and only two becoming major ones. Many of these storms never even make landfall.

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to address these queries, providing a month-by-month breakdown of Cozumel’s weather patterns, detailing the island’s history with hurricanes, and offering practical advice for those planning to visit during the Cozumel hurricane season.

What’s the Weather Like in Cozumel?

Cozumel enjoys a tropical savanna climate, which means it’s warm and sunny all year round. Temperatures average around a comfy 78.4°F (25.8°C). The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but don’t let that scare you. Hurricanes don’t hit Cozumel every year. The last big one was Hurricane Wilma in 2005! The #1 place locals view hurricane updates is on YouTube right here.

July 5, 2024, and Hurricane Beryl

Picture this: It’s July 5, and Hurricane Beryl roars like an uninvited party crasher, slamming into the coast just north of Tulum. Now, Cozumel’s sitting on the storm’s “dirty side” – trust me, that’s not where you want to be.

Even though Beryl wasn’t the biggest, baddest Cozumel hurricane on the block, she still packed a punch. Trees were doing cartwheels, and the power grid? Let’s say it took an extended siesta in many places.

Our vacation rentals? The lights were out for 72 hours. Sure, most of the island came back up and running before us, but some spots played hide-and-seek with electricity. The hard-working CFE guys do a great job but can not be everywhere. Power restoration in any spot might take up to a week with any hurricane, and it is uncertain which spot will be affected.

Some Facebook “keyboard warriors” were miffed when their owners asked them to reschedule. But let me tell you, if they’d stayed, they would have blown up Facebook faster than a beach ball, wondering when they could charge their phones again.

Here’s the kicker: our guests? Total champs. They got it. Our intention wasn’t to rain on their parade – we wanted them to have a memorable vacation for the right reasons. They skedaddled before the ferries and airports shut down like a clam at low tide.

So, here’s the deal: if you’re planning a summer fiesta in Cozumel, Mexico, do yourself a favor and get that vacation reimbursement insurance.

August 19th, 2021: Hurricane Grace

Hurricane Grace, a powerful Category 1 storm, made its presence known when it hit Mexico’s Caribbean coast just south of Cozumel early on a Thursday morning. The storm brought strong winds and heavy rain, leaving its mark on the picturesque Yucatan Peninsula. The storm came with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph, cutting off power for thousands and sending beachgoers back indoors as it churned its way across the region.

Cozumel, known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe, was shaken but not shattered. The center of Hurricane Grace made landfall at 4:45 a.m. CDT, catching the early risers with its intense wind and rain. As it swept through, tourists and locals alike hunkered down in their hotels, rental homes, and shelters, waiting out the storm. Many stayed away from the sandy beaches usually packed with sun-seekers, with stormy waves pounding the coast instead of the usual calm, turquoise waters.

In the hours after the storm, Cozumel and nearby areas saw blocked streets as fallen branches and trees littered the roads. Power lines had been yanked down in many places, leaving large community sections without electricity. The morning after Grace passed through, Cozumel looked like a different island, with its lush green landscape scattered and tangled from the storm’s force.

Most businesses remained closed as locals took stock of the damage. But the few opened stores saw long lines, with residents queuing up for essentials like tortillas and water. The hum of generators filled the air in places with power while others waited for electricity to return.

Despite the challenges, Cozumel’s resilient spirit shone through. Many locals came together to help clean up their streets, working side by side to clear debris and get the island back on its feet. The sense of community in times like these reminds visitors of the strength and warmth of the people who call this paradise home.

While Hurricane Grace might have momentarily halted the fun, Cozumel and the surrounding Riviera Maya are no strangers to storms. The area is well-prepared for such events, and as always, life slowly but surely returns to normal after the winds die down and the clouds break. The island did bounce back, as it has many times before, offering visitors a chance to experience its beauty, calm, and welcoming nature again.

If you plan a visit after any storm, rest assured that Cozumel’s charm isn’t quickly diminished. Like the palm trees that bend with the wind but don’t break, this island and its people will continue to stand tall, ready to welcome you back to its sunny shores.

The Two Hurricanes in 2020

In 2020, Cozumel faced not one but two hurricanes—Hurricane Delta and Hurricane Zeta—both of which made an impact within just a few weeks of each other. As if the challenges of COVID-19 in 2019 weren’t enough, 2020 came with its own surprises, reminding everyone on the island that Mother Nature can be unpredictable.

The first to hit was Hurricane Delta, a Category 2 storm that made landfall on October 7th. With wind speeds reaching up to 110 mph, Delta was a force to be reckoned with. As it barreled toward Cozumel, islanders and tourists alike hunkered down, preparing for the storm. The usually sunny skies of Cozumel turned dark, and the waves that gently lapped the shores grew fierce. While the storm caused some structural damage and power outages, Cozumel’s strong infrastructure and well-prepared residents helped to minimize the impact. Trees were knocked over, and streets were flooded, but the island’s resilient community always worked together to get things back to normal.

Just as the island began catching its breath, along came Hurricane Zeta on October 26th. Though Zeta was a less intense Category 1 storm, with winds of around 80 mph, it still packed a punch. By this time, Cozumel was in the swing of storm prep, with locals battening down the hatches, boarding up windows, and securing anything that could blow away.

The back-to-back hurricanes in October 2020 left a mark on Cozumel. In a year already complicated by the global pandemic, the people of Cozumel proved once again that they can weather any storm—literally and figuratively. Despite the challenges, the island remained a safe and welcoming destination for visitors, with most businesses bouncing back quickly after each storm passed.

Wilma’s 2005 Visit: Cozumel’s Unbreakable Spirit

Twenty years ago, Cozumel faced its toughest visitor ever: Hurricane Wilma, the largest recorded Atlantic hurricane. She arrived with a bang and stayed for over 60 hours, leaving a trail of destruction. But today, Cozumel stands tall, showcasing an incredible recovery story.

On October 20, Wilma ramped up to a Category 5 beast with winds over 155 mph (250 km/h). She didn’t just pass by—she parked herself over the island on October 21, unleashing her full fury.

It wasn’t just the powerful winds that wreaked havoc; it was her refusal to leave. Islanders, always ready for hurricanes, hunkered down as authorities issued warnings. Most tourists were evacuated, and those who stayed found refuge in safe shelters.

The aftermath was intense: uprooted trees, toppled power lines and cell phone towers, overturned cars, washed-away piers, and shattered windows on oceanfront properties. The island’s landscape changed overnight—roads collapsed, new rivers formed, and Cozumel’s coastline needed a new map. The island was without power for seven days (longer in other areas), and food was scarce, so it was not a time for tourists to be there.

How to Prep for Your Cozumel Vacation During Hurricane Season

So, should you skip Cozumel during hurricane season? Absolutely not! Follow these simple tips to ensure a smooth trip.

1. Check Cancellation Policies

Before you book anything, make sure you know the cancellation policies of your hotel, resort, or rental. Each place is different:

Some places will automatically cancel and refund your booking if a hurricane is on its way.
Others might wait to see if the storm will hit your area.
Some places might not offer any refunds at all.
Knowing these policies upfront can save you a lot of hassle and money if you need to change your plans.

2. Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is your best friend during hurricane season. Even if your destination has a solid cancellation policy, insurance protects you. Here’s why it’s important:

Insurance can cover your lost travel time if a storm hits your home airport and cancels your flight.
If you feel unsafe traveling even though the resort says it’s okay, insurance can help you get your money back.
It also covers unexpected costs, like staying extra nights or rebooking flights.
With travel insurance, you can book your trip with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered.

3. Have an Evacuation Plan

While visiting new places is exciting, safety should always come first. If a hurricane does head your way, you need to know how to get out quickly and safely:

Research the best routes to leave the area. Know which airlines and ferries will take you inland or how to catch a last-minute flight off the island.
Check local resources to see what evacuation plans are in place.
If getting out seems tricky, you might want to pick a different spot for your vacation.

Being prepared means you can enjoy your trip without worrying about what-ifs.

Month-by-Month Breakdown of Cozumel’s Weather

Let’s dive into a month-by-month look at what you can expect weather-wise:

January: Cool and comfy, with highs around 82°F (27.8°C) and lows at 68°F (20°C). Rain is minimal, so it’s a great time to visit.
February: Similar to January but with the added excitement of Cozumel’s Carnival! Highs at 84°F (28.9°C) and lows at 68°F (20°C), with a bit more rain.
March is warmer and drier, with highs at 85°F (29.4°C) and lows at 68°F (20°C). It’s one of the driest months, perfect for outdoor fun.
April: Temps rise a bit more, with highs at 87°F (30.6°C) and lows at 72°F (22.2°C). Rain starts to pick up, but it’s still a fantastic time to visit.
May: The rainy season starts with more showers, which are usually short. Highs are 86°F (30°C), and lows are 73°F (22.8°C).
June: Hurricane season starts, and it’s pretty rainy—highs at 87°F (30.6°C) and lows at 74°F (23.3°C). Stay alert for weather updates.
July: Warm and wet with highs at 87°F (30.6°C) and lows at 74°F (23.3°C). Keep an eye on hurricane warnings.
August: The hottest month with highs at 89°F (31.7°C) and lows at 74°F (23.3°C). Rain decreases a bit, but you need to stay weather-aware.
September: The wettest month with highs at 87°F (30.6°C) and lows at 74°F (23.3°C). It’s peak hurricane season, so be prepared.
October: Still part of hurricane season but with less rain. Highs at 86°F (30°C) and lows at 73°F (22.8°C). Keep those weather apps handy.
November: The end of hurricane season with highs at 83°F (28.3°C) and lows at 71°F (21.7°C). Outdoor activities become more enjoyable.
December: Arguably the best time to visit! Highs at 82°F (27.8°C) and lows at 68°F (20°C) with minimal rain. Perfect for escaping winter chills.

Perks of Visiting During Hurricane Cozumel Season

Guess what? There are some great benefits to visiting Cozumel during hurricane season. Airfares and hotel rates are lower, and the island is less crowded. That means you enjoy all the attractions without the usual hustle and bustle.

Stay Smart, Stay Safe, and Have Fun!

Cozumel is a fantastic destination, even during hurricane season. You can have a wonderful and safe vacation by staying informed and prepared. Remember, the chances of a hurricane hitting directly during your trip are slim, but having an evacuation plan ensures you can relax and enjoy every moment on this beautiful island.

Pack your bags, grab sunscreen, and prepare for a fantastic Cozumel adventure!

Why Book With Us?

Book through this website; we guarantee you’ll get the lowest price online. You’ll be dealing directly with us, the owners and we never charge booking fees so that you can save up to 30% of the cost over sites like Airbnb. Book our Mini-Resort Here.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is hurricane season in Cozumel?

Hurricane Season Cozumel runs from June 1 to November 30. The peak of hurricane activity occurs between August and October.

Are hurricanes common in Cozumel?

Cozumel is in a hurricane-prone area. On average, a hurricane passes within 60 nautical miles of Cozumel about once every 2-3 years

Is Cozumel affected by the hurricane season?

While Cozumel isn't guaranteed to be hit by a hurricane each year, the possibility does exist. Many visitors still enjoy Cozumel during hurricane season, often taking advantage of lower prices, but it's important to stay informed about weather conditions and have flexible travel plans.