Geography of Puerto Rico

Topographic map of Puerto Rico

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Puerto Rico geography

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Geography of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, an island territory of the United States, is located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. It is part of the Greater Antilles, a group of islands that includes Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola (shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic). The geography of Puerto Rico is diverse, featuring mountains, coastal plains, and river valleys, which contribute to its rich biodiversity and complex ecosystem.

Location and Size

Puerto Rico is situated to the east of the Dominican Republic and west of the Virgin Islands. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 18°15′N latitude and 66°30′W longitude. The territory encompasses an area of about 9,104 square kilometers (3,515 square miles), making it the smallest of the Greater Antilles. The main island is accompanied by several smaller islands, including Vieques, Culebra, and Mona.

Topography

The island's topography is dominated by the Cordillera Central, a mountain range that runs east to west across the center of the island. The highest point is Cerro de Punta, which reaches an elevation of 1,338 meters (4,390 feet). The mountains give way to coastal plains in the north and south, while the interior of the island features lush river valleys.

Climate

Puerto Rico enjoys a tropical climate with relatively little temperature variation throughout the year. The average temperature is around 26°C (79°F). The island experiences a wet and a dry season; the wet season runs from April to November, while the dry season occurs from December to March. Puerto Rico is also susceptible to hurricanes, which can affect the island between June and November.

Hydrology

The island is rich in water resources, with numerous rivers and lakes. The longest river is the Rio Grande de Loiza, which flows from the central mountain range to the northern coast. Puerto Rico's lakes are mostly man-made, created for water supply and irrigation purposes. The largest reservoir is Lago de Cidra.

Biodiversity

Puerto Rico's diverse landscapes support a wide range of flora and fauna. The island is home to several unique species, including the Puerto Rican parrot and the coqui frog, which has become a national symbol. The El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System, is renowned for its biodiversity and is a significant conservation area.

Environmental Issues

The geography of Puerto Rico faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, and the impact of natural disasters such as hurricanes. Coastal erosion and coral reef degradation are significant concerns due to their impact on marine biodiversity and the economy, particularly tourism and fishing.

Conclusion

The geography of Puerto Rico is characterized by its diverse landscapes, from the high peaks of the Cordillera Central to the coastal plains and beautiful beaches. This diversity supports a rich array of ecosystems and species, making the island a unique place of natural beauty and ecological importance. However, it also faces environmental challenges that require ongoing conservation efforts.

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