What are the physical characteristics of Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico, an unincorporated territory of the United States, is an archipelago located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 1,000 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. It is the smallest and most easterly island among the Greater Antilles, which also include Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic), and the Cayman Islands. Puerto Rico consists of the main island, which is shaped like a rectangle, and several smaller islands, including Vieques, Culebra, and Mona. Here are the physical characteristics of Puerto Rico:

1. Size and Topography:

- The main island of Puerto Rico is approximately 100 miles (160 km) long and 35 miles (56 km) wide at its widest point.

- It has an area of approximately 3,515 square miles (9,104 square km).

- The highest point in Puerto Rico is Cerro de Punta at 4,390 feet (1,338 meters) above sea level.

- The terrain is mostly mountainous with a rugged central mountain range that runs from east to west.

2. Coastline:

- The coastline of Puerto Rico is approximately 275 miles (442 km) long.

- It features both rocky cliffs and sandy beaches, including world-famous beaches like Flamenco Beach in Culebra and Ocean Park Beach in San Juan.

- Puerto Rico has several bioluminescent bays, which emit a glow at night due to the presence of microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates.

3. Climate:

- Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year.

- The average temperature in San Juan, the capital city, ranges from 75°F (24°C) in January to 84°F (29°C) in August.

- Puerto Rico experiences a rainy season from May to December and a dry season from January to April.

4. Vegetation and Wildlife:

- Puerto Rico is home to a diverse range of plant species, including tropical rainforests, coastal mangroves, and dry forests.

- The island has several national forests and wildlife refuges, including the El Yunque National Forest, which is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System.

- The fauna of Puerto Rico includes various species of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and whales.

5. Geographic Regions:

- Puerto Rico is divided into four geographic regions:

- The Northern Coastal Plain: This region is characterized by flat terrain and sandy beaches.

- The Central Mountain Range: This region features rugged mountains and includes the island's highest point, Cerro de Punta.

- The Southern Coastal Plain: This region has gentle slopes and is home to many sugarcane fields.

- The Eastern Coast Region: This region is less developed and features lush rainforests and unspoiled beaches.

Puerto Rico's physical characteristics make it a diverse and beautiful island with a unique combination of landscapes and ecosystems, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its natural wonders.