Last updated: January 18, 2025
Belize's climate is characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification of Am, indicating a tropical monsoon climate. Throughout the year, temperatures exhibit a notable range, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) occurring in February, while averaging around 27°C (81°F). The peak of the warm season is observed in June, when maximum temperatures can reach as high as 34°C (94°F). This tropical setting not only influences the local ecosystems but also plays a crucial role in shaping the lifestyle and cultural practices of its inhabitants.
In Belize, temperature patterns reveal a warm tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. The year begins with mild conditions in January, where averages hover around 25°C (77°F). As February approaches, a slight decrease in the minimum temperature to 16°C (61°F) is recorded, with averages remaining stable. The transition into spring sees temperatures rise gradually, peaking in April and May, where maximums reach 33°C (92°F). June marks the onset of hotter months, with temperatures escalating to an average of 28°C (83°F) and maximums hitting 34°C (94°F), providing a clear indication of the region's tropical heat. The warmth persists through July and August, before slightly cooling in October and November, culminating in December with mild temperatures again around 25°C (78°F). Throughout the year, the temperature remains predominantly warm, influenced by Belize's monsoon climate, creating an inviting environment for both residents and visitors.
Belize City's temperatures vary significantly, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in February and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in June, making it one of the warmer locations in the region monthly temperatures in Belize City. In contrast, San Pedro experiences milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in February to a maximum of 31°C (87°F) in September monthly temperatures in San Pedro. Similarly, Caye Caulker mirrors San Pedro's minimum of 19°C (67°F) in February, but its summer maximum reaches 30°C (87°F) in September monthly temperatures in Caye Caulker.
Belize experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, reflective of its tropical climate. The dry season commences in January with 85 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall, tapering off to 49 mm (1.9 in) in February and 47 mm (1.8 in) from March to April. This period sees fewer rainy days, notably April’s low of just 9 days, allowing for sunny and dry conditions that are characteristic of the early year. However, as May approaches, precipitation increases dramatically to 92 mm (3.6 in), signaling the onset of the rainy season, which peaks in June with 232 mm (9.1 in) over 23 rainy days, setting the stage for consistently wetter months.
From June onward, Belizean rainfall remains significant, particularly in the late summer and early fall. July, August, and September see precipitation levels of 140 mm (5.5 in), 166 mm (6.5 in), and 182 mm (7.1 in), respectively, with an uptick in rainy days, averaging around 25 days. October represents the climax of the rainy season, receiving a substantial 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain. This is followed by a gradual decline in precipitation during November and December, marking the transition back to drier conditions with 204 mm (8.0 in) and 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, respectively. Overall, Belize's climate showcases a robust wet and dry cycle, essential for its diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices.
In Belize, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend characterized by a steady increase as the year progresses from winter to summer. January starts off with 231 hours of sunshine, gradually climbing to 280 hours in February. By March, sunshine hours peak, reaching 321 hours, indicative of the transition from the cooler months into the warmer spring. This advance towards summer continues in April and May, where sunshine levels reach 320 and 330 hours respectively, marking these months as the sunniest of the year. The longer days and abundant sunlight during this period create ideal conditions for outdoor activities and tourism.
However, as summer shifts into fall, slight fluctuations in sunshine hours can be observed. June experiences a decrease to 285 hours, likely influenced by the onset of the rainy season, while July and August recover with 318 and 324 hours of sunlight, respectively. This resurgence exemplifies the tropical climate's unique ability to offer sunny intervals even amid rainy spells. By September, the sunlight tapers to 299 hours, followed by October's further decline to 285 hours. However, despite this downturn, November and December still manage to provide a respectable 278 and 292 hours of sunshine, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy a warm, inviting environment throughout the holiday season. Overall, Belize consistently offers ample sunshine, making it a year-round destination for sun-seekers.
The UV Index in Belize demonstrates significant fluctuations throughout the year, reflecting the intense tropical sunlight that characterizes the region. In January, the UV Index reaches 9, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the UV Index escalates to 11, indicating extreme exposure risk, with burn time reduced to 10 minutes. This pattern continues into March and April, where the UV Index peaks at 13 and 14, respectively, sustaining the extreme exposure category. May and June maintain similar levels, underscoring the need for sun protection measures during these months, especially with consistently high UV levels.
During the summer months, Belizeans and visitors encounter persistent extreme UV conditions, with the UV Index remaining steady at 13 from July through September, before dipping slightly in October to 12. Notably, November experiences a drop back to 9, classified as very high, and December follows with a UV Index of 8. Despite these reductions in the later months, the burn times stay remarkably low at 15 minutes or 10 minutes, emphasizing that sun safety is crucial year-round. These insights serve as a reminder for everyone enjoying the beautiful Belizean sun to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Belize exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, with little variation in the amount of light received each month. January and February see a stable 11 hours of daylight, providing a balanced environment for both residents and visitors. As the year progresses into March, daylight duration begins to increase, adding an extra hour, resulting in 12 hours that continue through April and May. This increase heralds the approach of summer, where longer days contribute to a vibrant atmosphere perfect for outdoor exploration and activities.
The peak of daylight is reached in June and July, where Belize enjoys 13 hours of daylight, ideal for making the most of its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. However, as summer transitions into fall, daylight duration begins to decline once again, returning to 12 hours in August and September. By October, the days shorten to 11 hours, a trend that continues through November and December. This slight fluctuation in daylight creates a rhythmic cycle that complements the region’s seasonal activities and celebrations, ensuring that Belize remains an appealing destination year-round.
Belize City experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in February to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in June, with April and May being the warmest months. Rainfall peaks from June to October, with October receiving the highest precipitation at 280 mm (11.0 in). Despite the rain, sunny days are abundant, especially in March and May, which see over 300 hours of sunshine. For more detailed climate information, visit Belize City climate.
Caye Caulker, Belize, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (83°F). The hottest months are typically May through September, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) in June and August. Rainfall is most abundant from June to October, peaking in October at 292 mm (11.5 in), while the driest months are February and April. Despite the rain, Caye Caulker experiences plenty of sunshine, particularly in March and May, which see over 330 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Caye Caulker climate.
The climate in Ladyville, Belize is characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) during the summer months, with highs reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in June. Rainfall is most significant from June to October, peaking in October with 280 mm (11.0 in) of precipitation. Conversely, January and February are drier months, with less than 100 mm of rain. For more detailed information on seasonal variations, visit Ladyville climate.
San Pedro, Belize experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), with peaks in the summer months of May to September reaching up to 31°C (87°F). Rainfall is significant, particularly from June to October, with October being the wettest month at 286 mm (11.3 in). Despite occasional heavy showers, the area enjoys ample sunshine, averaging up to 335 hours in May. For more information, visit San Pedro climate.
In conclusion, Belize's climate, characterized by tropical temperatures, substantial precipitation, high UV Index, and varying daylight duration, presents a unique and vibrant environment that appeals to a diverse range of visitors and locals alike. The distinct seasonal patterns, from the sunny dry months to the intensified rainfall during the rainy season, emphasize the importance of sun safety and preparation for outdoor activities. Moreover, the relatively stable daylight hours provide ample opportunity to enjoy the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural offerings throughout the year. Understanding these climatic and environmental nuances allows individuals to make the most of their time in Belize, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise.