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For much of the year Jamaica’s weather is as near perfect as
one could wish for - plenty of sunshine, not too hot and pleasant
cooling breezes. But there are considerable variations throughout
the year and across the island.
Temperature-wise
one month is much like another with maximum temperatures between
30 and 32 Celsius (86 to 90F). while minimum temperatures are rarely
below 19 Celsius (66F).
With fairly stiff northeasterly trade winds ensuring relatively
low humidity levels, it is rarely likely to feel uncomfortable.
Annual rainfall
is generally low, at least on the coast. But the Blue Mountains
extend to over 2,300 metres and on their northern slopes there can
be as much as 5,000 millimetres of rain each year. This contrasts
with just 750 on the sheltered south coast.
The one hazard
which needs to be borne in mind is hurricanes. From June to November
is hurricane season, with a peak in August and September.
The worst of these tropical cyclones can deposit as much as 500
millimetres of rain in two or three days. And wind speeds can be
in excess of 250 kilometres per hour.
But only two
or three major hurricanes occur in the Caribbean each year. An island
such as Jamaica can go several years without experiencing such a
hurricane.
So when is the
best time to visit? Any time between December and April should see
a good deal of fine, sunny weather perhaps punctuated by an occasional
heavy shower.
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