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Contents
- The climate of Cancún
- The best time to visit Cancún
- The worst time to visit Cancún
- Spring weather in Cancún
- Summer weather in Cancún
- Autumn weather in Cancún
- Winter weather in Cancún
- 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 pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
White sandy beach and the clear blue waters in Cancún, Mexico
The climate of Cancún
Cancún, a Mexican city located on the Yucatán Peninsula, borders the Caribbean Sea. The city is subjected to a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate according to the Köppen climate classification, Aw being the predominant climate. This classification is based on the considerable fluctuation in temperature, humidity, and precipitation throughout the year.
Assessing the climate patterns, Cancún experiences a high average temperature, ranging from 26°C (78.8°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), while the lower average temperature fluctuates between 22.1°C (71.8°F) and 27°C (80.6°F). Humidity is consistently high throughout the year, maintaining approximately 76%. Rain patterns demonstrate variability, with the city receiving between 26mm (1.02") and 137mm (5.39") each month. A noteworthy aspect of Cancún's weather is the concentration of rainy days in October, amounting to 23.3 days.
The sea temperature, vital for the city's water-based activities, varies from 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F). Daylight and sunshine hours also play an integral role in attracting tourists, with Cancún receiving between 10.9 hours to 13.4 hours of daylight and 7.3 hours to 9.3 hours of sunshine daily. The UV index remains at a moderate level of 6 to 7 all through the year. The city is gifted with superior visibility of 10 km consistently year-round. Wind speed a crucial determinant for water sports, ranges from 13.1km/h (8.1mph) to 18.8km/h (11.7mph), with gusts reaching up to 27km/h (16.8mph).
Assessing the climate patterns, Cancún experiences a high average temperature, ranging from 26°C (78.8°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), while the lower average temperature fluctuates between 22.1°C (71.8°F) and 27°C (80.6°F). Humidity is consistently high throughout the year, maintaining approximately 76%. Rain patterns demonstrate variability, with the city receiving between 26mm (1.02") and 137mm (5.39") each month. A noteworthy aspect of Cancún's weather is the concentration of rainy days in October, amounting to 23.3 days.
The sea temperature, vital for the city's water-based activities, varies from 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F). Daylight and sunshine hours also play an integral role in attracting tourists, with Cancún receiving between 10.9 hours to 13.4 hours of daylight and 7.3 hours to 9.3 hours of sunshine daily. The UV index remains at a moderate level of 6 to 7 all through the year. The city is gifted with superior visibility of 10 km consistently year-round. Wind speed a crucial determinant for water sports, ranges from 13.1km/h (8.1mph) to 18.8km/h (11.7mph), with gusts reaching up to 27km/h (16.8mph).
The best time to visit Cancún
Between December and April, one finds the most comfortable climate to explore Cancún. These months are characterized by less rainfall, ranging from 39mm (1.54") to 67mm (2.64"), along with increased daylight reaching up to 13.2 hours and more sunshine hours, peaking at 9 hours. The air temperature ranges between a pleasant 26°C (78.8°F) and 27°C (80.6°F). Additionally, the sea temperature is warm enough for water activities, averaging from 26.5°C (79.7°F) to 27.7°C (81.9°F).
The worst time to visit Cancún
Often tourists steer clear of Cancún between the summer to early autumn, from June to October, due to the rise in relative humidity (78% to 77%), and the high rainfall recorded (up to 137mm (5.39") in October). Despite the longer daylight hours, with up to 13.4 hours in June, the increase in cloud cover (32% to 35%) and reduced sunshine hours pose drawbacks. Wind speed decreases to 13.1km/h (8.1mph) to 15.1km/h (9.4mph), reducing possibilities for wind-dependent water sports.
Spring weather in Cancún
Spring, spanning from March to May in Cancún, is characterized by a gradual increase in temperature, from 27.3°C (81.1°F) to 29.8°C (85.6°F). Rainfall is less frequent in the initial spring month, with 26mm (1.02") recorded in March, before increasing to 78mm (3.07") by May. Humidity also rises gradually throughout the season, from 73% in March to 76% in May. The hours of daylight and sunshine increase during spring, peaking at 13.2 hours and 9 hours respectively by May.
Summer weather in Cancún
The summer months extend from June to August. This period witnesses peak temperatures, reaching a high of 31°C (87.8°F), while the average low temperature touches 27°C (80.6°F). Humidity levels rise, averaging at 78% in June. Rainfall increases to 113mm (4.45") in June before decreasing to 85mm (3.35") in August. Despite the maximum daylight received during this period, up to 13.4 hours in June, sunshine hours dwindle to 8.6 hours.
Autumn weather in Cancún
September to November is the autumn season in Cancún, marked by decreasing temperatures, falling from 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), and an increase in rainfall, peaking at 137mm (5.39") in October. During these months, the daylight and sunshine hours also diminish from 12.3 hours to 11.1 hours and 9.2 hours to 8.4 hours, respectively.
Winter weather in Cancún
Winter, encompassing December to February, experiences a decrease in rainfall, standing at 63mm (2.48") in December, making it the driest month of the season. Temperature averages range from 26°C (78.8°F) to 26.9°C (80.4°F). Despite the shorter days, with daylight hours falling to 10.9 hours by December, Cancún still enjoys ample sunshine with 8.3 hours in the same month. The month of February offers the coolest sea temperature of reach 25.8°C (78.4°F).
Weather in January
Starting the year with a moderate climate, Cancún in January offers hospitable conditions. These initial weeks are marked by a slight relief from peak holiday tourism, allowing visitors to enjoy the various outdoor activities relatively free from extended waiting periods. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Leading on from the pleasant start of the year, February continues to provide a conducive climate. Cancún in February witnesses a marginal increase in all weather indices, marking a slow transition from the cooler early year period to the warmer months ahead. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As spring takes hold, March presents incrementally warmer weather in Cancún. Distinct shifts from the preceding month are observed with amplified daylight hours, offering extended exploration time for both beach-goers and sightseeing enthusiasts. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Cancún signifies the onset of slightly warmer weather, marking the exit of the spring season. This period observes an upward shift in the temperature range, coupled with an increased evaporation rate due to the higher temperatures. Weather in April »
Weather in May
The climate in May continues on the upward swing with a substantial rise in all weather parameters. This considerable surge, often results in discomfort among visiting tourists, particularly during the peak daytime hours. However, the higher temperatures provide perfect conditions for water-related activities including fishing, diving, and sailing. Cancún in May experiences a recorded high of 29.8°C (85.6°F), a minimum of 25.9°C (78.6°F) with significant rainfall of 78mm (3.07"), spread across 17.8 days. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in the climatic peak in Cancún with the height of summer temperatures. These heightened conditions persist into the early evenings, providing tourists with extended hours of warm weather for their activities. Despite the high humidity levels, the cooling sea breeze offers relief to the city. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Cancún maintains the dominant summer climate, with the temperatures hovering around their annual peak. Along with high temperatures, there is an equally high likelihood of rainfall during this month. However, this rainfall is typically brief and sporadic, seldom disrupting outdoor activities for extended periods. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August is typically the hottest month in Cancún, exhibiting the pinnacle of the annual temperatures. Despite the surge, the coastal location of Cancún helps in moderating the thermal build-up, courtesy of occasional sea breezes. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As Cancún transitions from the height of summer in August to more moderate conditions in September, there's a marginal reduction in temperatures. September is noted for the high precipitation levels often resulting in intermittent bouts of increased humidity. Weather in September »
Weather in October
The weather in October brings a continuation of the downscaling trend in terms of temperatures while retaining relatively high humidity levels. October is the wettest month of the year, often seeing concurrent spells of rain showers, making it a potentially unfavorable option for outdoor-focused tourists. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Marking the advent of winter, November showcases a visible decline in temperature readings as opposed to the preceding month. The distinct drop in temperature makes the environment suitably comfortable for exploratory activities. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Rounding off the year on a comfortably cool note, December affirms the onset of winter in Cancún. A clear decrease in temperatures, as compared to November, along with relatively lower rainfall sums up the weather for this month. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 9, 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 coldest month in Cancún?
January is the month when Cancún sees the average lowest temperatures, with a high of 26°C (78.8°F) and a low of 22.1°C (71.8°F).
How many days does it rain in Cancún?
In Cancún, during the entire year, the rain falls for 224.7 days and collects up to 886mm (34.88") of precipitation.
What is the month with the coldest sea water in Cancún?
With an average sea temperature of 25.6°C (78.1°F), January is the month with the coldest seawater in Cancún, Mexico.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Cancún?
The month with the least sunshine in Cancún is January, with an average of 7.7h of sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Cancún?
The months with the lowest UV index in Cancún are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the least humid month in Cancún?
The least humid month is March, with an average relative humidity of 73%.
What is the driest month in Cancún?
The month with the least rainfall in Cancún is March, when the rain falls for 14.3 days and typically collects 26mm (1.02") of precipitation.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Cancún?
March through October, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Cancún.
What is the most humid month in Cancún?
The most humid month in Cancún, Mexico, is June, with an average relative humidity of 78%.
When are the longest days in Cancún?
The month with the longest days in Cancún is June, with an average of 13h and 24min of daylight.
What are the months with the most sunshine in Cancún?
July and August, with an average of 9.3h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
What time of the year is the hottest in Cancún?
August stands out as Cancún's warmest month, with temperatures ranging between an average high of 31°C (87.8°F) and a low of 27°C (80.6°F).
What month is the sea warmest in Cancún?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Cancún, Mexico, with an average sea temperature of 29.4°C (84.9°F).
What is the wettest month in Cancún?
The month with the most rainfall in Cancún is October, when the rain falls for 23.3 days and typically aggregates up to 137mm (5.39") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Cancún?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 10h and 54min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Cancún?
Cancún does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). EST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
Cancún, Mexico
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (87.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (78.8°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (80.6°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (71.8°F).
Average pressure
Cancún, Mexico
- Average pressure in January:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.9"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.9"Hg - Average pressure in November:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.02"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.05"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are September and October (29.9"Hg).
Average wind speed
Cancún, Mexico
- Average wind speed in January:
10.9mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
11.7mph - Average wind speed in April:
11.4mph - Average wind speed in May:
10.4mph - Average wind speed in June:
9.9mph
- Average wind speed in July:
8.1mph - Average wind speed in August:
8.2mph - Average wind speed in September:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in December:
10.4mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (11.7mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (8.1mph).
Average humidity
Cancún, Mexico
The month with the highest relative humidity is June (78%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (73%).
Average rainfall
Cancún, Mexico
- Average rainfall in January:
2.64" - Average rainfall in February:
1.54" - Average rainfall in March:
1.02" - Average rainfall in April:
1.69" - Average rainfall in May:
3.07" - Average rainfall in June:
4.45"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.4" - Average rainfall in August:
3.35" - Average rainfall in September:
3.58" - Average rainfall in October:
5.39" - Average rainfall in November:
3.27" - Average rainfall in December:
2.48"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (5.39").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (1.02").
Average rainfall days
Cancún, Mexico
- Average rainfall days in January:
19.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
18.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
19.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
21.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
21.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
23.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
20.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
20.7 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (23.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is April (12.3 days).
Average sea temperature
Cancún, Mexico
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (85°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is January (78.1°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Cancún, Mexico
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
8h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
8h and 2min
The months with the most sunshine are July and August (Average sunshine: 9h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 7h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Cancún, Mexico
- Average sunshine days in January:
6.1 days - Average sunshine days in February:
8.2 days - Average sunshine days in March:
11.1 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.7 days - Average sunshine days in May:
9 days - Average sunshine days in June:
7.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
8.4 days - Average sunshine days in August:
6.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
5.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
4.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
4.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
4.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is April (11.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (4.6 days).
Average UV index
Cancún, Mexico
The months with the highest UV index are March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Cancún, Mexico
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 40).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 23).
Average visibility
Cancún, Mexico
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Cancún, Mexico
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