Issued December 1st 2025


The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season concluded with notable contrasts, combining a relatively low number of storms with unusually high intensity, according to the latest assessment from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Despite fewer hurricanes overall, the season proved active in terms of storm strength and energy.
A total of 13 named storms developed, with 5 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). Despite the reduced storm count, the season’s Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) finished above the long-term average.

A notable feature of the season was the development of three Category 5 hurricanes, making 2025 only the second Atlantic season on record after 2005 to produce this many storms at the highest intensity. Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm of the year, ranked among the most intense hurricanes ever observed in the Atlantic Basin.
These periods of extreme intensity were made possible by short-lived but highly favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions. Exceptionally warm sea-surface temperatures, combined with reduced wind shear, created ideal environments for several storms to undergo rapid intensification.

St. Maarten experienced two slight storm impacts during the 2025 season:

  • Tropical Storm Erin passed approximately 107 miles northeast of the island in August, bringing minimal effects.
  • Tropical Storm Jerry passed about 90 miles north-northeast of St. Maarten in October, also producing limited impacts.
    The season began later than usual, with Tropical Storm Andrea forming on June 23, the latest first named storm since 2014. Despite the quiet start, activity increased sharply in the second half of the season, showing that a delayed beginning does not necessarily result in a low-impact year.

Key Messages
Intensity is not tied to the number of storm: Fewer storms can still produce an active and high-risk season.
Caribbean communities remain at risk: Even without U.S. landfalls, storms can significantly impact the region.
Rapid intensification remains a forecasting challenge: Continuous monitoring and readiness are essential for safeguarding St. Maarten.