December weather forecast
Highgate, Jamaica

December, the first month of the winter in Highgate, is still a warm month, with an average temperature fluctuating between 21.5°C (70.7°F) and 28.9°C (84°F).

Temperature

Highgate observes an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 28.9°C (84°F) in December, barely different from 29.7°C (85.5°F) in November. Throughout December, a steady low-temperature average of 21.5°C (70.7°F) is noted.

Heat index

During December, the heat index is estimated at a sweltering 35°C (95°F). Incorporate special precautions, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is substantial. Sustained activity could cause heatstroke.
The standards for the heat index are set for locations in shade and under light breezes. Uninterrupted exposure to the sun may boost the heat index values by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', shows a temperature sensation when both heat and moisture conditions are combined. Additional factors encompassing metabolic differences, the level of physical activity, and clothing can impact the individual's perception of temperature. Consider that direct sun exposure can intensify the felt heat, adding potentially 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are quite important for children. Young ones regularly neglect the requirement for rest and fluid replenishment. Thirst is a late stage of dehydration - so, it is necessary to keep hydrated, particularly during extended periods of physical exertion.
The innate cooling system of the human body revolves around perspiration, with the evaporation of sweat being central to this process. Under high air temperature coupled with high humidity (high heat index), the body's perspiration is reduced, intensifying the sensation of heat. Overheating risks increase with rising body temperatures, especially if heat release isn't efficient.

Humidity

The months with the highest humidity are October through December, with an average relative humidity of 81%.

Rainfall

In Highgate, Jamaica, during December, the rain falls for 19.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 42mm (1.65") of precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 265.1 rainfall days, and 806mm (31.73") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year in Highgate, with an average of 11h and 6min of daylight.
On the first day of December in Highgate, sunrise is at 06:23 and sunset at 17:30. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:39 and sunset at 17:42 EST.

Sunshine

With an average of 6.7h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.

UV index

January through April, September, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the lowest UV index. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: The UV index of 6 in December translates into these instructions:
Employ safeguards and advocate sun safety protocols. Shielding against skin and eye damage is crucial. Avoid direct Sun exposure and seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the period of highest UV radiation. Remember, however, that not all shade structures offer full protection. Using UVA and UVB-protective sunglasses and sun-protective clothing is effective against UV radiation.