What may be less known are the effects hurricanes have on the coastal ecosystem, particularly the coral reef. Typically, in the Caribbean, the hurricane season starts in June, reaching its peak in mid-August, and lasting through late October. A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone that develops over tropical waters, gathering heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters. Hurricanes reach the shores of countries, such as Belize, with the help of easterly trade winds and temperate westerlies. Fortunately, the presence of the barrier reef helps to reduce the strength of extremely powerful waves that accompany hurricanes, decreasing the impact experienced on the shoreline.
Opinions vary in regards to the effect of hurricanes on the reef.
Some believe that tropical storms may provide a benefit to the reef ecosystem, clearing the reef of dead organisms and even enhancing bio-diversity. In some instances, segments of branching corals that were broken off and scattered by waves settle, reproduce, and start new colonies. Substrates that have attached to reefs are sometimes cleared by strong storms, leaving new surfaces for coral larvae to grow on. There are even reports in Florida that areas affected by black band disease have been cleared of the disease, leaving behind healthy coral. Still, others believe that the effects are much more significant and often very destructive.