Last updated: January 18, 2025
Clarendon, Jamaica, is characterized by its Köppen-Geiger climate class Aw, which signifies a tropical savanna climate. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) during January, while the average temperature hovers around a warm 27°C (80°F) year-round. The peak temperatures occur in July, reaching a sweltering maximum of 36°C (98°F). This climatic profile highlights the diverse and vibrant weather patterns that shape the ecological and social fabric of Clarendon.
In Clarendon, Jamaica, temperature patterns exhibit a clear progression throughout the year, marked by warm and humid conditions typical of a tropical savanna climate. The year begins with cooler months, as January and February feature minimum temperatures around 17-18°C (63-64°F) and average temperatures stabilizing at 25-26°C (77-78°F). Moving into spring, temperatures gradually rise, with April experiencing highs of 33°C (92°F) and a slight increase in minimums. As late spring transitions into summer, particularly from May to August, the region reaches its peak warmth, with average temperatures climbing to 28°C (82°F) and maximums consistently hitting 36°C (97-98°F). The onset of autumn in September sees a brief return to cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures around 21°C (71°F), before stabilizing again in October and November. By December, temperatures begin to cool slightly, rounding out the year with temperatures returning to the lower ranges seen earlier, but maintaining an overall balmy climate that characterizes this tropical locale.
In Rocky Point, the climate varies throughout the year, with January temperatures averaging a minimum of 22°C (71°F) and July reaching a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Such temperature fluctuations contribute to the area's diverse seasonal experiences, making it an interesting location for visitors and residents alike. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures in Rocky Point, you can check monthly temperatures in Rocky Point.
Precipitation in Clarendon, Jamaica, follows a distinctive pattern characterized by gradual increases and peaks throughout the year. The months of January and February receive the least rainfall, with only 28 mm (1.1 in) and 25 mm (1.0 in), respectively, suggesting relatively dry conditions early in the year. As spring approaches, March experiences a notable increase in precipitation to 41 mm (1.6 in), followed by a significant jump in April to 68 mm (2.7 in). The rainy season intensifies in late spring and summer, peaking in October, when the region receives a substantial 179 mm (7.0 in), marking it as the wettest month.
The number of rainy days also reflects this seasonal variability, with rainfall frequency escalating as the year progresses. January has the fewest rainy days at 6, increasing to 8 in February and reaching 11 days by April. The summer months witness a marked increase in both rainfall and frequency, particularly in September with 18 days of rain, contributing to the cumulative total of 129 mm (5.1 in). The rainy season starts to wane in November, with 15 days of rain and a reduction to 113 mm (4.4 in) before December returns to drier conditions with just 8 days of precipitation.
In Clarendon, Jamaica, sunshine duration displays a compelling seasonal trend, with notable increases from winter to summer. Beginning in January, the year kicks off with 249 hours of sunshine, gradually rising as winter transitions into spring. February sees a marked increase to 302 hours, and by March, the duration peaks at 346 hours. This upward trend continues into April and May, maintaining substantial sunshine levels, with 343 hours and 328 hours, respectively. The summer months then take center stage, with July boasting the highest sunshine duration at 351 hours, showcasing the region's sunny disposition during the peak vacation season.
As summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to decline, ushering in the autumn months. While August remains robust at 339 hours, September witnesses a decrease to 318 hours. This decline continues through October and November, where sunshine hours drop below 300 hours for the first time since winter. December rebounds slightly to 313 hours, but the overall trend indicates a consistent reduction in sunlight as the year closes. These patterns reveal not only the vibrant sunlight that graces Clarendon during the warmer months but also the gradual seasonal transition that affects daily life and activities in this tropical locale.
The UV Index in Clarendon, Jamaica, presents a significant health consideration, reflecting a very high to extreme exposure category throughout the year. In January, the UV Index starts at 9, classifying it as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, February experiences an alarming rise to 11, indicating extreme levels of UV radiation, which can lead to skin damage in as little as 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. The trend continues unabated into March and April, with the UV Index peaking at 13 and 14, respectively, both categorically extreme and demanding vigilant sun protection measures.
Summer months maintain this intensity, as the UV Index holds steady at 13 from May through September, affirming that the sun’s rays are consistently hazardous, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. While October sees a slight decrease to 12, the danger remains high, transitioning back to a very high classification of 9 in November and further dropping to 8 in December. The data indicates that, despite seasonal fluctuations, Clarendon residents and visitors must remain proactive in shielding themselves from UV radiation year-round, particularly during the peak months when outdoor activities are most prevalent.
UV Risk Categories
In Clarendon, Jamaica, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, characterized by relatively stable hours of sunlight. January and February each enjoy 11 hours of daylight, offering a solid foundation for the first quarter of the year. As spring approaches, March marks an increase in daylight to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April and May, maintaining that same duration. This gradual extension lays the groundwork for the summer months, where daylight reaches its peak at 13 hours in June and July, allowing for extended opportunities for outdoor activities and tourism.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to contract once again. August sees a return to 12 hours, followed by a steady decline back to 11 hours by October, maintaining that duration through November and December. This cyclical rhythm reveals how Clarendon balances short and long days while maintaining an enjoyable climate year-round. The relatively steady daylight duration ensures that residents and visitors alike can plan their activities with a dependable amount of sunlight throughout the seasons.
Rocky Point, Jamaica, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Monthly average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) in winter to about 29°C (84°F) during summer. Rainfall peaks in October with 188 mm (7.4 in), while the driest months are January and March, receiving only around 19-23 mm (0.7-0.9 in). The area basks in sunshine, particularly from March to July, boasting over 300 hours per month. For more detailed climate information, visit Rocky Point climate.
In summary, Clarendon, Jamaica, showcases a diverse and vibrant climate characterized by warm temperatures, significant precipitation, high UV exposure, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. With tropical savanna conditions, residents and visitors experience a marked increase in warmth and sunshine as they move from the cooler winter months into the sweltering summer season. The region's precipitation patterns highlight a distinct rainy season, elevating the need for sun protection during months of high UV indices. Despite these variations, the steady daylight duration provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities and engagement with the lush natural environment. As such, understanding Clarendon's climatic characteristics can inform better health, agricultural, and recreational practices, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all who partake in this beautiful locale.