Jamaica Weather

Jamaica climate

Jamaica's tropical maritime climate delivers warm temperatures year-round, with coastal areas averaging between 24°C and 33°C. The Blue Mountains rise to over 2,200 meters in the east, creating dramatically cooler conditions at elevation and serving as a rain catchment that makes the northeastern slopes among the wettest areas in the Caribbean, receiving over 5,000mm of annual rainfall.

The island experiences two rainy seasons — a primary one from May to June and a secondary one from September to November, the latter coinciding with the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. Jamaica has been struck by several significant hurricanes throughout its history, making storm tracking essential during the June-November hurricane season. The south coast is generally drier and sunnier than the lush, rain-fed north coast.

Kingston on the south coast sits in a rain shadow and experiences drier conditions than Montego Bay and Ocho Rios on the north coast. Afternoon sea breezes moderate temperatures along the coast, while nights in the Blue Mountains can be surprisingly cool. The consistent northeast trade winds keep humidity manageable and create excellent conditions for outdoor activities throughout the dry season.