Last updated: January 18, 2025
Portland, Jamaica, is characterized by its tropical savanna climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. The region experiences a warm climate throughout the year, with minimum temperatures averaging around 20°C (67°F) in January. The average temperature hovers at a comfortable 26°C (79°F), making it a pleasant destination. During the peak of the summer, particularly in September, temperatures can soar to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), reflecting the intensity of tropical heat. This climatic profile underscores the vibrant ecological diversity and the appeal of Portland as a year-round destination for both locals and tourists alike.
In Portland, Jamaica, temperature patterns exhibit a notable seasonal progression throughout the year. The year begins with relatively mild conditions in January, where minimum temperatures reach 20°C (67°F) and maximums peak at 29°C (84°F). As winter transitions into spring, temperatures gradually increase; by April, the minimum rises to 21°C (70°F) and maximums reach 30°C (86°F). Late spring into summer sees the warmest temperatures, with July and August averaging around 27°C (81°F) and soaring maximums of 32°C (90°F). This peak warmth continues into September, where temperatures can reach a high of 33°C (92°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to moderate, with October and November showing a gradual decline, culminating in December with a return to milder averages of 25°C (78°F). Overall, Portland enjoys a warm tropical climate with distinct seasonal shifts characterized by gradual warming and cooling trends.
Port Antonio and Hope Bay share similar temperature ranges, with minimums of 20°C (69°F) in January and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F) by September, as detailed in their respective climate data monthly temperatures in Port Antonio and monthly temperatures in Hope Bay. Buff Bay, while also starting at a minimum of 20°C (67°F) in January, experiences a slightly higher maximum temperature of 33°C (92°F) in September, as shown in the link to its climate data monthly temperatures in Buff Bay.
Precipitation in Portland, Jamaica, fluctuates throughout the year, exhibiting distinct wet and dry periods. The wet season typically begins in April, marked by increasing rainfall that peaks in October with 230 mm (9.0 in), making it the month's wettest. This trend continues into November, where 178 mm (7.0 in) of rain falls, as well as into December with 104 mm (4.1 in). The months preceding the wet season, particularly January and February, see less rainfall, with averages of 80 mm (3.2 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in) respectively, signaling a drier climate.
Throughout the year, the frequency of rainy days also exhibits variation, with October experiencing the most precipitation days at 25 days. In contrast, July and August, despite being part of the wet season, see slightly lower rainfall, recording 62 mm (2.4 in) and 133 mm (5.2 in) respectively, over 16 and 20 days. Overall, Portland's precipitation patterns illustrate a clear seasonal cycle, with the rainfall concentrated in a few summer months, heavily influencing the region’s lush tropical landscape.
In Portland, Jamaica, sunshine duration varies significantly throughout the year, showcasing a clear seasonal trend. Beginning in January, the region experiences 249 hours of sunlight, gradually increasing each month as winter transitions into spring. February sees an uptick to 303 hours, followed by March which reaches 345 hours—the increasing daylight sets the stage for a vibrant spring. The peak sunshine months occur in the summer, with July leading at 354 hours, closely followed by August at 342 hours. This seasonal spell of abundant sunshine not only enhances the tropical landscape but also invites tourists to capitalize on the warm and inviting climate.
As the year progresses into the autumn months, sunshine hours begin to wane slightly, with October recording 307 hours and a further decline in November to 291 hours. The trend then stabilizes in December with 312 hours, providing a modest recovery before entering a new year's cycle. Overall, Portland's sunshine patterns illustrate a clear relationship between seasonal change and daylight availability, underscoring the region's appealing climate that attracts both visitors and supports its lush biodiversity.
The ultraviolet (UV) index in Portland, Jamaica, presents a notable seasonal pattern, highlighting the region's high exposure to solar radiation throughout the year. In January, the UV index starts at 9, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress toward spring, February experiences a sharp increase to 11, marking the beginning of extreme exposure, while March peaks at 13. From March through August, the UV index remains consistently high, peaking at 14 in April, emphasizing the critical need for sun protection during these months, as burn times are exceptionally short, averaging around 10 minutes.
As summer transitions into autumn, the UV index gradually decreases, although it still remains in the extreme category throughout September and October at 12. By November, the index dips back to 9, and further declines to 8 in December, returning to a very high exposure level. These patterns underscore the importance of taking precautions against UV radiation year-round, particularly during the extreme months when sun exposure can quickly lead to skin damage. Understanding these trends is vital for both residents and visitors to safely enjoy the sunny climate of Portland.
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In Portland, Jamaica, daylight duration exhibits subtle variations throughout the year, aligning closely with the tropical climate's seasonal patterns. Beginning in January and February, the region enjoys about 11 hours of daylight, which provides a balanced exposure to sunlight during the cooler winter months. As spring approaches in March, daylight hours increase to 12 hours, a trend that continues into April and May, allowing residents and visitors to engage in outdoor activities under generous sunlight.
The summer months of June and July see the longest daylight duration, reaching 13 hours as days stretch into the warmest time of the year. However, as the year progresses into late summer and early autumn, daylight gradually decreases again, returning to 12 hours in August and September. By October, daylight hours taper back to 11 hours, a pattern that remains consistent throughout November and December. This cyclical variation in daylight duration not only impacts daily life but also highlights the rhythmic nature of the tropical environment in Portland, enriching the overall experience for those in the area.
Buff Bay, Jamaica, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. January to March sees average temperatures of 24°C (76°F), while the peak heat occurs from July to September, averaging around 27-28°C (81-82°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in October and November with 185 mm and 162 mm, respectively. Sunlight is plentiful, especially from March to July, where residents enjoy over 340 hours of sunshine monthly. For more details, visit Buff Bay climate.
Hope Bay, Jamaica, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 24°C (76°F) in January to 32°C (89°F) in September. Rainfall varies, with the wettest months being May and October, receiving 142 mm and 222 mm respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 354 hours in July, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Overall, visitors can expect a pleasant and inviting atmosphere year-round. For more details, visit Hope Bay climate.
Manchioneal, Jamaica, experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in August, with peak highs reaching up to 30°C (87°F) in September. Precipitation varies significantly, with October being the wettest month at 262 mm (10.3 in), while sunshine hours are abundant, peaking at 355 hours in July. This combination of warmth and rainfall contributes to the lush environment of the region. For more detailed information, visit Manchioneal climate.
Moore Town, Jamaica, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Throughout the year, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) in September, with average monthly temperatures remaining around 24-27°C (76-81°F). The wettest months are May and October, receiving 157 mm (6.2 in) and 256 mm (10.1 in) of rainfall, respectively. Despite the precipitation, the area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts 355 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Moore Town climate.
Port Antonio, Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall throughout the year. Daily temperatures typically range from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in September, with averages consistently around 24-27°C (76-81°F). The wettest months are October and May, where precipitation can reach up to 222 mm (8.7 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in), respectively. Despite the rain, Port Antonio benefits from abundant sunshine, averaging over 300 hours in most months, especially from March to July. For more details, visit Port Antonio climate.
In conclusion, Portland, Jamaica, presents a captivating climate characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and variable precipitation throughout the year. The distinct seasonal patterns reveal a vibrant interplay of light, warmth, and moisture that shapes both the local ecosystem and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. Understanding factors such as UV index, daylight duration, and rainfall trends is essential for residents and visitors alike to fully appreciate the region's tropical allure while taking necessary precautions to enjoy the outdoors safely. This rich climatology not only enhances the natural beauty of Portland but also contributes to its appeal as a year-round destination for those seeking sun, adventure, and a glimpse of the island's lush biodiversity.