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Contents
- The climate of Kingston
- The best time to visit Kingston
- The worst time to visit Kingston
- Spring weather in Kingston
- Summer weather in Kingston
- Autumn weather in Kingston
- Winter weather in Kingston
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The brightly lit Kingston city, Jamaica
The climate of Kingston
Located in the heart of Jamaica, Kingston is characterized by a predominantly Tropical wet and dry, or Savannah climate, as classified under the Köppen climate classification. Across the span of a year, the city undergoes minimal variations in temperature, averaging between 30.2°C (86.4°F) to 32.8°C (91°F) in maximum climate and dropping to a minimum range of 21°C (69.8°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F). This constant warm climate underlines the tropical aspect of Kingston's weather.
A unique feature of this climate is its rainfall pattern. Generally, the city sees an increase in rainfall from April onwards, reaching its peak in October with a rainfall amount of 177mm (6.97"). This figure slowly declines through the subsequent months. The overall rainfall distribution ranges from 18mm (0.71") in the dry month of January to 177mm (6.97") in October. Alongside the increase in rainfall, the city also experiences more frequent rainy days, reaching up to 14 days in October, before falling back to 5 days by January.
The average relative humidity throughout the year is fairly stable, fluctuating within a small window from 70% to 79%. Kingston also benefits from ample daylight hours, varying from 11.1 hours in December to 13.2 hours in June. Skilled observers might even notice a predictable pattern in sea temperatures, which range from 26.9°C (80.4°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F), gradually increasing over the year and peaking around August and September.
A unique feature of this climate is its rainfall pattern. Generally, the city sees an increase in rainfall from April onwards, reaching its peak in October with a rainfall amount of 177mm (6.97"). This figure slowly declines through the subsequent months. The overall rainfall distribution ranges from 18mm (0.71") in the dry month of January to 177mm (6.97") in October. Alongside the increase in rainfall, the city also experiences more frequent rainy days, reaching up to 14 days in October, before falling back to 5 days by January.
The average relative humidity throughout the year is fairly stable, fluctuating within a small window from 70% to 79%. Kingston also benefits from ample daylight hours, varying from 11.1 hours in December to 13.2 hours in June. Skilled observers might even notice a predictable pattern in sea temperatures, which range from 26.9°C (80.4°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F), gradually increasing over the year and peaking around August and September.
The best time to visit Kingston
With its tropical setting and warm, consistent temperatures, Kingston is welcoming all throughout the year. However, for visitors looking to maximize their outdoor activities and avoid the high precipitation months, the ideal time is from February to April. During these months, rainfall is relatively low and sunshine hours remain generous, averaging at more than 8 hours per day, ensuring ample time for beach visits and outdoor adventures.
The worst time to visit Kingston
Though Kingston is a year-round destination, potential visitors should consider avoiding the period between September and November. This coincides with the highest recorded rainfall, peaking at 177mm (6.97") in October, coupled with up to 14 days of rainfall, which might hamper outdoor activities. Furthermore, relative humidity is at its highest during these months, which some may find slightly uncomfortable.
Spring weather in Kingston
March through May marks the spring season in Kingston. In these months, maximum temperatures fluctuate between 30.7°C (87.3°F) and 31.6°C (88.9°F), with minimum temperatures remaining between 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 23.6°C (74.5°F). While April sees an increase in average rainfall to 39mm (1.54"), May brings a jump in rainfall to 100mm (3.94"), marking the onset of the wet season. But these showers do not significantly impact the plentiful daylight during spring, with hours ranging from 12.1 to 13 hours.
Summer weather in Kingston
Kingston's summer, from June to August, continues to uphold its tropical identity with temperatures reaching their yearly peak. Highs range from 32.1°C (89.8°F) to 32.8°C (91°F), while minimum temperatures hover between 24.2°C (75.6°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F). Rainfall increases notably during these months, reaching 74mm (2.91") in June and culminating at 98mm (3.86") by August. Despite a dip in daylight hours from 13.2 to 12.7, there remains ample time to absorb the vibrant Jamaican culture.
Autumn weather in Kingston
Autumn, between September and November in Kingston, is marked by the highest rainfall levels of the year. In September, rainfall peaks at 114mm (4.49") and continues to rise, reaching a phenomenal 177mm (6.97") in October. Even as rainfall decreases to 65mm (2.56") by November, the charm of Kingston in autumn is only accentuated by these temporal showers. Amidst this, temperatures retain their warm trend, ranging from 31.7°C (89.1°F) to 32.1°C (89.8°F) for highs and 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 24°C (75.2°F) for lows.
Winter weather in Kingston
Winter months of December to February in Kingston are beautifully warm with high temperatures varying from 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 30.6°C (87.1°F) and lows ranging between 21.1°C (70°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F). Rainfall dramatically decreases to more conservative levels, ranging from 18mm (0.71") to 19mm (0.75") during these months. Daylight hours shorten slightly to between 11.2 to 11.6 hours, but there is ample sun and warmth for winter vacationers to enjoy their stay in this tropical paradise.
Weather in January
January in Kingston, Jamaica brings mild weather conditions. Temperatures range from 21.1°C (70°F) at night up to daytime highs of 30.3°C (86.5°F). It is relatively dry, albeit with occasional bouts of moderate rainfall. A comparison to February reveals a stable temperature pattern with a slight increase in rainfall. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February continues the mild climate traits of January with minor fluctuations in Kingston's weather forefront. Despite a minimal difference in recorded temperatures, February sees a slight increase in rainfall to 19mm (0.75"). Weather in February »
Weather in March
March witnesses higher UV index levels, indicating more intense sunlight exposure in Kingston. The transition from February to March brings a noticeable rise in temperatures and UV index values, hitting a peak of 12. Rainfall levels ascend slightly, yet it is not a significant setback to outdoor activities. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers in a transitioning climate in Kingston; temperatures, rainfall amount, and relative humidity generally rise when compared to March figures. With rainfall measurements rising significantly to 39mm (1.54"), showers become more frequent, though light and short-lived. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May brings the onset of the rainy season in Kingston, with some of the highest rainfall measurements of the year. The increased rainfall at 100mm (3.94") is coupled with a hike in both daytime and night temperatures, signifying the escalation towards summer heat. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Kingston carries the traits of a tropical summer. While the soaring daylight hours and high relative humidity mark the warmth of summer, the decline in rainfall from the previous month is apparent. Moreover, June also presents a surprising minor drop in sea temperatures. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July displays an interesting shift in Kingston's weather pattern. Notwithstanding July's elevated temperatures reaching the year's peak at 32.8°C (91°F), the month showcases a noticeable drop in rainfall to 42mm (1.65") compared to June. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August brings minimal change to the established weather pattern in Kingston. The sea temperatures reach the year's peak at 29.4°C (84.9°F), offering perfect conditions for sea lovers. Even though temperatures remain consistently high, August marks a comeback for extensive rainy periods. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September’s weather features an increase in both rainfall and relative humidity in Kingston. Given the increased rainfall at 114mm (4.49"), September is characterized by frequent, albeit short-lived showers. Despite the increased rainfall, the day temperatures remain consistently high. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is identified as Kingston's wettest month with rainfall peaking to 177mm (6.97"). This spike in rainfall does not drastically affect temperature trends which hover around their annual highs. Sea temperatures are slightly lower than in September; however, they still offer conducive conditions for water activities. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November presents a welcome relief from the intense rains of October in Kingston. Even with a significant drop in rainfall to 65mm (2.56"), the humidity levels remain elevated, maintaining the tropical feel of the city. The sea temperatures remain warm, prevalent for water activities. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December rings in milder weather conditions in Kingston. Compared to the previous month, temperatures drop slightly giving a pleasant feel to the city's climate. It also showcases a marked decline in rainfall to 47mm (1.85"), marking December as a relatively drier month. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 24, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the driest month in Kingston?
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 5 days and typically collects 18mm (0.71") of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Kingston?
In Kingston, during the entire year, the rain falls for 93 days and collects up to 813mm (32.01") of precipitation.
When is the lowest UV index in Kingston?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 8, are months with the lowest UV index in Kingston, Jamaica.
What is the coldest month in Kingston?
February, recording an average high temperature of 30.2°C (86.4°F) and a low temperature of 21°C (69.8°F), is Kingston's coldest month.
What is the month with the coldest sea water in Kingston?
The month with the coldest seawater is February, with an average sea temperature of 26.9°C (80.4°F).
What is the month with the most sunshine in Kingston?
February and April, with an average of 8.6h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Kingston?
March through September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index in Kingston, Jamaica.
When are the longest days in Kingston?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 13h and 12min of daylight.
What part of the year is the hottest in Kingston?
Kingston's July weather, marked by an average high temperature of 32.8°C (91°F) and an average low temperature of 24.3°C (75.7°F), is the warmest in the year.
What is the least humid month in Kingston?
The least humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
When is the sea warmest in Kingston?
The month with the warmest seawater in Kingston, Jamaica, is September, with an average sea temperature of 29.5°C (85.1°F).
What is the month with the least sunshine in Kingston?
September has the least sunshine of the year in Kingston, Jamaica, with an average of 7.1h of sunshine.
What is the most humid month in Kingston?
October is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
What is the wettest month in Kingston?
October is the month with the most rainfall in Kingston. Rain falls for 14 days and accumulates 177mm (6.97") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Kingston?
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 11h and 6min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Kingston?
Kingston does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). EST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Kingston, Jamaica
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (32.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is February (30.2°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (24.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (21°C).
Average humidity
Kingston, Jamaica
The month with the highest relative humidity is October (79%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (70%).
Average rainfall
Kingston, Jamaica
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (177mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (18mm).
Average rainfall days
Kingston, Jamaica
- Average rainfall days in January:
5 days - Average rainfall days in February:
5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11 days - Average rainfall days in October:
14 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10 days - Average rainfall days in December:
6 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (14 days).
The months with the least rainy days are January, February and March (5 days).
Average sea temperature
Kingston, Jamaica
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is September (29.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (26.9°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Kingston, Jamaica
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
7h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 4min
The months with the most sunshine are February and April (Average sunshine: 8h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is September (Average sunshine: 7h and 6min).
Average UV index
Kingston, Jamaica
The months with the highest UV index are March, April, May, June, July, August and September (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 8).
Kingston, Jamaica
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