2019 Hurricane Season: Mexico Travel Tips

It’s 2019 hurricane season in Mexico. While some areas of Mexico are more likely to be at risk of damage from these powerful storms than others, Puerto Vallarta is generally well protected from powerful storms due to the surrounding Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and Banderas Bay. The natural border of mountains and Banderas Bay has kept Puerto Vallarta safe over the years.  In Mexico, hurricane season generally begins in June and lasts through the end of November, with the most storms forming during the months of August through October. Below you can read more about more the 2019 hurricane season in Mexico, and trave tips to stay safe while travelling.

Hurricane Season: June Through November

Hurricanes and tropical storms affect weather patterns on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Gulf Coast, and the Pacific coast. On the Pacific Coast of Mexico where Puerto Vallarta is located, hurricanes are slightly less common. The greatest activity of hurricanes occurs during the months between August and October, and on average the entire hurricane season lasts from June through November.  In addition to coastal towns, inland destinations can be affected by substantial rains that cause flooding and mudslides in the aftermath of a storm. Flooding and mudslides can potentially cause damage to structures and human life, too. However, in general inland areas are less likely to be damaged by storms than coastal towns.

What to Know About Travel to Mexico during Hurricane Season

Travel to Mexico during hurricane season is still a good idea due to several factors. Although there is no way to fully predict the weather or natural disasters, travel to Mexico is generally safe all year long. There are advantages to vacationing in Mexico during the summer and fall as opposed to the winter or spring when tourism peaks. Summer is low season for tourism, so you can expect fewer crowds which many people enjoy during their vacation to Mexico. Also, airfare and hotel fares are reduced during the summer and fall months as a result of less tourist activity. If you search for plane tickets and hotels online to travel to Mexico during summer and fall, you have a good chance of obtaining a great deal and enjoy savings on your trip.

Remember, while the chance that you will encounter a hurricane during your vacation is minimal, here are some tips you can take.

Tips and Advice:

• Purchase travel insurance that will include coverage in case you need to cancel or end your trip early because of storm related danger.  
• When making your accommodation reservations, ask if the resort has a hurricane policy or guarantee. If they do, check the terms to understand how their policy will affect your vacation and reservation if a storm hits.
• Register your vacation with your country’s embassy since they can offer assistance if needed during a natural emergency. 
• Follow the weather prior to and during your trip. Check the National Hurricane Center Website for current tropical storm and hurricane conditions as well. 
• Share a detailed copy of your trip itinerary with friends and family before you leave for your vacation to Mexico. Also, scan and email copies of important documents such as passport, drivers license, flight tickets and hotel reservations to yourself so you can easily access them if needed.

Enjoy Discounted Rates on Hotels and Airfare

One perk of taking a vacation to Mexico during hurricane season is that you can enjoy discounted rates on hotels and airfare. There are less crowds so you won’t have to wait in line at your favorite restaurants or tourist attractions, too.  Also, thanks to technology, hurricanes rarely strike by surprise which provide advance warning needed in order to prepare for a storm situation. Before and during your vacation to Mexico, watch weather forecasts and take note if there are any hurricane warnings.  In the unlikely event a hurricane does occur during your vacation to Mexico, resort personnel are trained to keep you safe. Make sure to follow all directions and instructions from the staff members.  Lastly, carry your personal documents in a resealable waterproof bag to keep them dry. As an extra precaution, keep your cell phone charged and conserve power by only using it for essential calls and messages.

Whether you travel during hurricane season, we hope you have a great and safe vacation in Mexico!