The History of Hurricanes in Miami: A City Shaped by Storms

Miami, with its glittering skyline and sun-soaked beaches, is no stranger to hurricanes. For over a century, this city has stood at the crossroads of powerful storms sweeping in from the Atlantic and the Gulf. From early records in the 1900s to the present day, hurricanes have left their mark not only on the landscape but also on the people, culture, and identity of Miami.

The Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 remains one of the most catastrophic events in the city’s history. Striking as a Category 4 storm, it flattened neighborhoods, caused massive flooding, and left thousands homeless. Economically, it crippled the city for years and reshaped Miami’s early development. For many historians, this storm was the defining moment that showed just how vulnerable the city was to tropical weather.

Decades later, Hurricane Andrew in 1992 became another turning point. With winds exceeding 165 mph, Andrew tore through South Florida as a Category 5 storm, destroying over 63,000 homes and damaging countless others. It was a disaster that transformed state policies and building codes. Miami’s skyline today — with stronger, hurricane-resistant construction — is, in large part, a legacy of Andrew’s destruction.

More recent storms, including Hurricane Irma in 2017, reminded Miami that the threat remains as strong as ever. While advances in forecasting, evacuation planning, and infrastructure have improved survival rates, storms still disrupt lives, displace families, and challenge the city’s resilience. Miamians live with the annual rhythm of hurricane season, from June to November, knowing that preparation is essential.

The history of hurricanes in Miami is not only a tale of destruction, but also of resilience. Each storm brought tragedy, but also lessons, inspiring stronger communities and smarter planning. Miami’s story is one of survival — a city shaped by hurricanes, but never defeated by them.