Hurricane of 1899, Impact on Dominica

The Hurricane of 1899, known historically as the San Ciriaco Hurricane, was one of the most destructive Atlantic storms of the late 19th century, leaving a significant impact on Dominica. Striking the island in August 1899, the hurricane was part of a massive system that devastated much of the northeastern Caribbean. Its long duration and immense strength made it particularly destructive, with heavy rains, high seas, and sustained hurricane-force winds that battered communities along Dominica’s coasts.

Impact on Dominica

Dominica faced widespread destruction as the hurricane damaged homes, plantations, and public buildings. Coastal settlements, particularly on the east coast exposed to the Atlantic Ocean, bore the brunt of the storm surge and rough seas. Banana and cocoa plantations suffered severe losses, crippling the island’s agricultural exports for months. Fishing villages saw boats destroyed, and many families were displaced due to flooding and wind damage.

The storm disrupted essential infrastructure, damaging roads, bridges, and ports, which hampered relief and recovery efforts. Historical accounts describe rivers bursting their banks and landslides in hilly areas, isolating villages from assistance. While exact casualty numbers for Dominica remain uncertain, regional reports confirm that San Ciriaco claimed thousands of lives across the Caribbean.

Regional and Historical Context

Originating east of the Lesser Antilles, the hurricane passed directly through the island chain, with Dominica among the islands severely affected. It continued to Puerto Rico, where it caused catastrophic loss of life, and later tracked toward the Bahamas and the southeastern United States. Lasting nearly a month, it remains one of the longest-lived Atlantic hurricanes on record.