Last updated: January 18, 2025
St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, exemplifies the tropical savanna climate classification (Koppen-Geiger: Aw), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, climbing to an average of 27°C (80°F) throughout the year. The peak temperatures occur in July, reaching a maximum of 37°C (99°F), highlighting the warmth that defines this vibrant locale. This climate not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the agricultural practices and lifestyle of its inhabitants.
In St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, temperature patterns exhibit a warm tropical climate characterized by gradual increases throughout the year. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums dip to 18°C (65°F) and average around 25°C (78°F). As spring approaches, temperatures rise steadily, with April marking a shift to higher averages nearing 26°C (79°F). The summer months of May to July see the most significant warmth, reaching maximums of 35°C (95°F) in May and peaking at 37°C (99°F) in July. Following this peak, temperatures begin to moderate slightly in August and September, before settling into a cooler autumn phase by November and December, where averages return to around 26°C (79°F). This cyclical pattern highlights the stable warmth typical of the region, with slight variations emphasizing the transition from cooler to significantly warmer months.
Santa Cruz experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January seeing a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and the peak heat occurring in July with a maximum of 34°C (93°F). For more detailed information on monthly temperatures in Santa Cruz, visit the link: monthly temperatures in Santa Cruz.
St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, experiences a diverse precipitation pattern that is closely tied to seasonal changes, with notable rainfall primarily occurring from late spring into autumn. The year starts relatively dry, with January and February receiving only 22 mm (0.9 in) and 21 mm (0.8 in), respectively. As the months progress, March sees a significant increase to 43 mm (1.7 in), paving the way for the wettest months. May marks the onset of the rainy season, delivering 124 mm (4.9 in) and extending into the summer months, with June and July capturing 63 mm (2.5 in) and 71 mm (2.8 in), respectively.
The peak of precipitation occurs in the autumn months, with October receiving up to 148 mm (5.8 in), contributing to an overall trend of increased rainfall and frequency of rainy days. September and October are particularly notable, recording 125 mm (4.9 in) and 21 days of rain, respectively. This transition from dry to progressively wetter conditions culminates in a very wet October before drying out again in November and December, where totals drop to 92 mm (3.6 in) and 26 mm (1.0 in), respectively. This seasonal shift highlights the tropical savanna climate's distinct wet and dry phases in St. Elizabeth.
St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, basks in abundant sunshine, with a notable increase in hours as the year progresses from winter to summer. Beginning with January's 247 hours, there is a gradual climb in sunshine, reaching 301 hours in February and peaking in March with 345 hours. This trend continues into the spring, where April achieves 342 hours, and May records 328 hours. The sun-drenched months of late spring and early summer lay the groundwork for the sunniest period of the year, as July boasts an impressive 349 hours of sunshine, just slightly eclipsed by the consistent 336 hours in August.
As the summer transitions into fall, sunshine hours remain relatively abundant but begin to taper off in September with 316 hours. The trend of decreasing hours continues into the months of October and November, where the totals fall to 302 hours and 289 hours, respectively. December makes a slight recovery with 311 hours, yet it remains lower compared to the peak summer months. Overall, St. Elizabeth experiences a clear seasonal pattern in sunshine duration, highlighted by vibrant summers that foster a warm and inviting environment, yielding a rich contrast to the relatively gloomier late fall months.
In St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, the UV Index presents a striking pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's intense sunlight exposure. January starts the year with a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress into February, the UV Index climbs even higher to 11, reaching extreme levels for the first time this year. The peak intensity occurs in March and April, with recorded values of 13 and 14, respectively, where the burn time shortens to a mere 10 minutes. This extreme exposure demands vigilance, as sunscreen application and protective clothing are essential during these peak months.
As summer unfolds, St. Elizabeth maintains a consistent UV Index of 13 from May through September, sustaining the extreme risk level with a quick burn time of 10 minutes. Even as the season begins to wane in October with a slight dip to 12, the exposure remains noteworthy. By November and December, the UV Index decreases to 9 and 8, respectively, yet both still fall within the very high category, thus extending the need for sun protection. This annual cycle underscores the necessity for residents and visitors alike to remain cautious and proactive in sun safety practices, particularly during the hottest and brightest months of the year.
UV Risk Categories
In St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, daylight duration showcases a consistent pattern throughout the year, reflective of its tropical location. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, maintaining a steady rhythm that aligns with the winter months. As spring approaches, March sees a slight increase, resulting in 12 hours of daylight, which continues through April and May. This gradual transition sets the stage for longer days as the summer solstice approaches.
The peak daylight duration occurs in June and July, where residents and visitors enjoy 13 hours of sunlight, a prime time for outdoor activities and exploration. However, as August rolls in, daylight hours taper back to 12, maintaining that level through September. The trend continues into the fall months, with daylight returning to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This cyclical pattern not only emphasizes the predictability of daylight in St. Elizabeth but also offers residents the opportunity to enjoy a nearly year-round abundance of sunshine.
Santa Cruz, Jamaica, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures range from 25°C (78°F) in January and February to a peak of 28°C (83°F) during the summer months. Rainfall varies significantly, with May experiencing the highest precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in), while January and February are drier with only 16 mm (0.6 in). Despite some rainy periods, Santa Cruz boasts abundant sunshine, particularly in March with 346 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Santa Cruz climate.
In summary, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, presents a fascinating climate characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and notable seasonal variations in precipitation and UV exposure. With a tropical savanna climate, the region experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, highlighting peaks of warmth and rainfall that shape the local ecosystem and lifestyle. The evident patterns in daylight duration further enhance the appeal of St. Elizabeth, allowing for prolonged periods of sunlight and outdoor activities throughout the year. Understanding these climate dynamics is essential for residents and visitors alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and environmental intricacies of this vibrant region in Jamaica.