The climate of Montego Bay
Located on the north coast of
Jamaica,
Montego Bay experiences a tropical savanna climate, designated as 'Aw' by the Köppen climate classification. This island city experiences persistent heat throughout the year, with monthly averages fluctuating between 29°C (84.2°F) and 32°C (89.6°F) for high temperatures and between 20°C (68°F) and 23°C (73.4°F) for low temperatures. Rainfall is also a constant presence in Montego Bay, with its quantity showing variations throughout the year.
There is an abundant span of daylight received in Montego Bay spanning a monthly average of 11 hours to 13.2 hours. Correspondingly, sunshine also proliferates, varying slightly from 6 to 8.3 hours per day in the year. The ultraviolet index is regularly high, cautioning the residents and visitors of the intense sun's rays throughout the year, with a monthly average varying between 8 and 12.
Rainfall, an integral aspect of this locale's weather, doesn't fail to make its appearance with average monthly volumes ranging from 74mm (2.91") to 261mm (10.28"). Heaviest rains occur in the latter half of the year, especially between
May and
October, with
September marking the highest average at 261mm (10.28"). Drier months are positioned at the start and end of the year, in
February and
December respectively.
The best time to visit Montego Bay
Considering the overall climate, the period between
February and
April would be ideal for a visit to
Montego Bay. The rainfall during these months, particularly in February, is the lowest in comparison with other months, ensuring less interruption to outdoor activities. Average high temperature during these months remains around 29°C (84.2°F) to 30°C (86°F), perfect for beach and outdoor activities. Ample daylight and sunshine hours also encourage exploration of the city's charm and scenic beauty.
The worst time to visit Montego Bay
If seeking the least accommodation in terms of rainfall,
September and
October might not be the best months to visit
Montego Bay. These months see the heaviest rainfall, with September topping the chart with an average of 261mm (10.28"). The high temperature is at its zenith during this period as well, with September and October seeing averages up to 31°C (87.8°F) and 32°C (89.6°F) respectively.
Spring weather in Montego Bay
Spring is a pleasant season in
Montego Bay, lasting from
March to
May. Average high temperatures during spring range from 30°C (86°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), while the lows range from 21°C (69.8°F) to 23°C (73.4°F). Rainfall starts to increase in this period, notably in May when the average reaches 255mm (10.04"). At the same time, the city receives more than 12 hours of daylight, ensuring sufficient time for leisurely pursuits.
Summer weather in Montego Bay
Summer, extending from
June to
August, in
Montego Bay is characterized by both heat and rainfall. The average high temperatures hit the highest of the year, reaching 32°C (89.6°F), with low temperatures of around 23°C (73.4°F). Rain in these months is substantial, with the volume varying from 204mm (8.03") to 209mm (8.23") approximately. Despite heavy downpour, daylight stays well above 12 hours and sunshine averages at about 8 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Montego Bay
Autumn in
Montego Bay stretches from
September to
November. This period experiences high temperatures around 31°C (87.8°F), slightly lowered from the summer months, and similar low temperature averages around 23°C (73.4°F). Rainfall in autumn is abundant, with the highest average of 261mm (10.28") registered in
October, making it the wettest month. Daylight decreases gradually, varying from 12.2 hours to 11.3 hours.
Winter weather in Montego Bay
Winter months of
December through
February in
Montego Bay observe moderate high temperatures averaging between 29°C (84.2°F) and 30°C (86°F) and low temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 21°C (69.8°F). A reduction in rainfall is noted, with December marking the least average at 87mm (3.43"). Sunshine and daylight hours slightly decrease in winter, averaging 7 hours and 11 hours respectively, still leaving ample daylight for outdoor activities. The cooler sea temperature of 26.9°C (80.4°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F) may make some water activities less enticing though.
Weather in January
The first month of the year sets the stage for characteristic
Montego Bay weather: warm temperatures, occasional showers and plenty of sunshine hours.
January sees a relatively cooler range of temperatures shifting between 20°C (68°F) to 29°C (84.2°F).
Weather in January »Weather in February
February maintains a pattern similar to the previous month, with minor fluctuations indicating the impending tropical warmth. There is a considerable increase in UV index to 10, a reminder to pack sunscreens for those planning to bask in the Caribbean sun.
Weather in February » Weather in March
With
March,
Montego Bay enters a transitional phase marking the crossover from mild winter to early summer. Compared to
February, changes are minimal but evident in the gradually escalating average temperatures and sea temperatures.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April witnesses a notable change in weather parameters. With an increase in average rainfall to 153mm (6.02"), it marks the beginning of a wetter phase for
Montego Bay. Yet, the showers do not overshadow the overall appeal of the area.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May stands out as the month with the most rainfall in
Montego Bay, 255mm (10.04") in total. This surge results in a higher number of rainy days, changing the dynamics of the city. Nevertheless, the city's charm remains unscathed, with temperatures continuing to stay within a comfortable warm range.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June ushers in a noticeable rise in warmth, while the increased rainfall from the previous month sees a reduction. With sea temperatures reaching 28.6°C (83.5°F), it's an ideal time for water sports or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches of
Montego Bay.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July sees the peak of summer temperatures, with the mercury rising to 32°C (89.6°F). As the hottest month in
Montego Bay, it presents the full tropical experience complete with balmy days and warm nights. The sea temperature elevates to 29°C (84.2°F), perfect for indulging in a wide array of water-based activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August follows the same high-temperature trend as
July but with marginally increased rainfall. Although the mid-summer heat continues, the additional rainfall brings a refreshing respite from the sun. Sea temperatures culminate to 29.7°C (85.5°F), making it the best month for underwater explorations.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Entering
September,
Montego Bay begins to experience a slow departure from the height of Caribbean summer. While temperatures remain high, subtle signs, such as a slight drop in temperatures and sea temperatures, hint towards the upcoming cooler months.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Arriving at
October,
Montego Bay weather commences a gradual decline from the peak summer conditions. Rainfall hits a high with 261mm (10.28"), making it the wettest month of the year. Despite these showers, the city's warmth and vibrancy prevail with each bright day.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November brings a quick shift in
Montego Bay's weather with a noticeable decrease in rainfall and a drop in temperatures. Undoubtedly, these changes indicate the arrival of the cooler months. That said, the city's mellow warmth doesn’t entirely fade away, maintaining its tropical charm.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December gives
Montego Bay a respite from high rainfall as it falls to a manageable 87mm (3.43"). It marks the onset of a notably drier and cooler phase, setting the stage for the upcoming year's weather patterns. Lower temperatures and sea temperatures continue the trend of transitioning towards more moderate conditions.
Weather in December » [Resources]