The climate of Port Antonio
The city of
Port Antonio, beautifully nestled in
Jamaica, is marked by a tropical wet and dry climate according to the Köppen climate classification. As expected from a location within the Aw zone, this locale enjoys a wide variety of weather phenomena that change throughout the year. Temperatures tend to fluctuate from a low of 18°C (64.4°F) up to highs of 31°C (87.8°F). Rainfall and the number of rainy days per month also reveal interesting patterns in this tropical location. From a moderately wet 75mm (2.95") in
March up to a considerable volume of 352mm (13.86") in
November, precipitation levels vary significantly. Nevertheless, with a year-round warmth and a climate that shifts from wet to dry, Port Antonio exemplifies a quintessential tropical setting.
When analyzing daylight hours, they range from 11.1 hours in
December to 13.2 hours in
June, showing a clear indication of the tropical latitude. Sea temperatures, on the other hand, display modest fluctuation from 26.8°C (80.2°F) to 29.8°C (85.6°F), providing agreeable conditions for water-based activities.
Notably, the UV index sustains high values throughout the year, peaking at an index of 12 from March to
September. This certainly emphasises the necessity of sun protection for residents and travelers alike. Sunshine hours maintain a steady average of between 6 to 8 hours per day, reflecting the city's tropical locale.
The best time to visit Port Antonio
Looking at the overall weather patterns, the finest time to visit
Port Antonio would be from
January to
March. These months enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F), providing an enjoyable climate for outdoor activities. Rainfall during this period is relatively low, ranging from 75mm (2.95") to 185mm (7.28") with 6 to 7 rainy days per month. This reduced chance of precipitation makes sightseeing and exploration more pleasant. Moreover, sea temperatures remain inviting, hovering around 26.8°C (80.2°F) to 27.1°C (80.8°F). Tourists can also benefit from a substantial amount of daylight, around 11.2 to 12.1 hours, and ample sunshine of 7 to 8 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Port Antonio
On the contrary, the less favorable time to visit
Port Antonio happens to be in the latter part of the year. Specifically,
October and
November present weather conditions that might challenge outdoor activities. During these months, temperatures remain relatively warm, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). However, rainfall increases substantially, reaching up to 352mm (13.86") in November with 16 rainy days in October. This considerable amount of precipitation can hinder outdoor plans. Although sea temperatures stay warm, between 29.4°C (84.9°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), and daylight hours are consistent, the high probabilities of rain and saturated conditions might make this period less appealing for visitors.
Spring weather in Port Antonio
Spring in
Port Antonio can be described as classically tropical, with temperatures ranging from 19°C (66.2°F) to 30°C (86°F). The number of rainy days during this season fall between 6 to 7, and rainfall measures from 75mm (2.95") to 148mm (5.83"). Although these months experience considerable rainfall, it does not outweigh the pleasant weather conditions. Sea temperatures gradually increase from 27.1°C (80.8°F) to 27.7°C (81.9°F). Meanwhile, daylight hours extend, reaching up to 12.6 hours per day by
May with sunshine hours peaking at 8 hours per day.
Summer weather in Port Antonio
Summer months lend themselves to a somewhat predictable tropical climate. Temperatures during this period range from 22°C (71.6°F) to 31°C (87.8°F).
June and
July’s rain volumes exceed 200mm (7.87"), recording 12 to 13 rainy days per month. The weeks of summer sport the lengthiest days of the year, with daylight hours varying from 13 to 13.2 hours per day. Sea temperatures during these sun-drenched months vary from 28.4°C (83.1°F) to 29.6°C (85.3°F), perfect for water activities.
Autumn weather in Port Antonio
Autumn in
Port Antonio tends to be markedly wet. Temperatures during this season display consistency, with lows of 22°C (71.6°F) and highs of 30°C (86°F). The number of rainy days remains high in autumn, with figures ranging from 14 to 16 days. Correspondingly, the city sees substantial levels of rainfall, notably reaching a high of 337mm (13.27") in
October. However, the sea remains warm with temperatures falling between 29.8°C (85.6°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), and daylight still lasts between 12.2 hours and 11.3 hours per day.
Winter weather in Port Antonio
Winter months in
Port Antonio present a slightly cooler climate, with temperatures varying from 19°C (66.2°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). Rainfall begins to decrease in these months, from 279mm (10.98") in
December to 185mm (7.28") in
February. Rainy days also become less frequent, seeing only 8 to 7 days in the latter winter months. Sunshine hours remain comforting at about 6 to 7 hours per day while daylight hours recede slightly from 11.3 to 11.1 hours. Sea temperatures during the winter season range from 29°C (84.2°F) to 28.2°C (82.8°F), maintaining their pleasant warmth.
Weather in January
Expect
January weather in
Port Antonio,
Jamaica to commence with warmth. A daily high temperature revolves around 29°C (84.2°F), with nights cooling down to approximately 18°C (64.4°F). Adverse weather conditions tend to be less severe as compared to the heavy downpours that will follow in the year.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Subtle changes occur in the weather during
February. Variations in temperature are minimal, but rainfall slightly reduces. The increase in daylight hours paired with consistent sunshine makes for pleasant weather. Sea temperatures, however, begin to fall, albeit marginally.
Weather in February »Weather in March
A noticeable shift happens in
Port Antonio's weather in
March. The decrease in rainfall and rise in sunshine hours emphasize the dryness of the season. A daily increase in sunshine and daylight hours results in extended periods to enjoy the sandy beaches.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Port Antonio witnesses a weather transition from dry to wet. There is an increased likelihood of rainfall amid consistent temperature levels. Enjoyment of outdoor activities sustains owing to extended daylight and stable sunshine durations.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May ushers in the wet season in
Port Antonio with the annual highest rainfall of 276mm (10.87") spread over an increased number of rainy days. Despite the weather challenges, daylight and sunshine durations remain favorable for outdoor activities.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Weather in
June continues to maintain rhythms similar to
May. The frequency and intensity of showers slightly reduce however. Daylight hours reach their peak while sea temperatures continue to rise. Despite the bit of cloud cover introduced by rain, sunbathing remains favorable.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Patterns within the
Port Antonio weather system shift in
July. The increased rainfall correlates with an increase in the number of rainy days. A slight rise in temperatures offers the warmest month of the year with temperatures reaching up to 31°C (87.8°F) during the day.
Weather in July »Weather in August
The weather in
August mirrors that of
July. Despite persistent rainfall, there are plenty of sunshine hours. A minimal drop in sea temperatures should not deter beach enthusiasts. The UV index remains unchanged suggesting continued intensity of solar radiation. July and August are characterised by peak temperatures, with an average high of 31°C (87.8°F).
Weather in August »Weather in September
Entering into
September,
Port Antonio experiences significant weather transformations. Temperature variations are minimal, but rainfall begins to increase. The month endorses less sunshine hours and reduced daylight. Despite the shorter days, enjoyment of the sea can continue due to high sea temperatures.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October weather continues with the trend of increased rainfall. Heavy rainfall commences an overall wet condition in the environment. Changes in daylight and sunshine hours are minor but in favor of less sunshine. Tourists can savour the sea that maintains high temperature.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The rainy season in
November reaches its peak with the annual highest rainfall, recorded at 352mm (13.86"). A decrease in sea and daylight and sunshine hours denotes transitioning into cooler months. Offsetting the downside of rains is a remarkable fall in temperature.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Port Antonio weather in
December marks the commencement of the dry season again. The drastic reduction in rainfall and cooler temperatures indicate a transition to less humid conditions. Despite fewer daylight and sunshine hours, outdoor activities remain enjoyable.
Weather in December » [Resources]