Last updated: January 18, 2025
St. James, Jamaica, is characterized by a tropical savanna climate (Köppen-Geiger class Aw), which showcases a vibrant range of temperatures throughout the year. Winter months see a mild minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, while the average temperature hovers around a warm 27°C (80°F). The region experiences significantly warmer conditions during the height of summer, peaking at a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in August. This distinct climatic pattern contributes to St. James' rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, making it a unique location for both residents and visitors.
St. James, Jamaica, presents a consistent and warm temperature pattern throughout the year, characterized by a gradual increase from the cooler, drier months of January to March, where minimum temperatures range from 18°C (65°F) to 19°C (66°F) and averages stabilize around 25°C (77°F). As spring transitions into summer, temperatures begin to rise, with April marking a noticeable warm-up, reaching maxima of 34°C (94°F). The peak of summer is noted from June to August, when both minimum and average temperatures hold steady around 23°C (73°F) and 28°C (82°F), respectively, while maxima frequently reach 35°C (95°F) or higher. As autumn approaches in September, temperatures slightly decline but remain warm, culminating in max temperatures averaging 34°C (94°F), before settling into the milder winter months of November and December, which still boast comfortable averages of 26°C (79°F). This seasonal warmth creates an inviting climate, ideal for outdoor activities and the lush tropical conditions that define the region.
In Jamaica, Montego Bay and Anchovy share similar temperature ranges, with both locations experiencing a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January and a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in June, as detailed in their respective climate profiles: monthly temperatures in Montego Bay and monthly temperatures in Anchovy. In contrast, Cambridge has a slightly warmer climate, starting from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) in January and reaching up to 34°C (93°F) in June, as outlined here: monthly temperatures in Cambridge.
Precipitation in St. James, Jamaica, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with variations in both intensity and frequency throughout the year. The wet season typically begins in April, where rainfall starts to increase significantly, reaching 109 mm (4.3 in). May marks the peak of this rainy period, delivering 219 mm (8.6 in) of rain over approximately 23 days, showcasing the region's tropical character. Following May, rainfall remains substantial in June and July, contributing an average of 130 mm (5.1 in) and 137 mm (5.4 in), respectively, while the number of rainy days continues to hover between 20 to 23.
As the year progresses into late summer and early autumn, precipitation remains high, with August experiencing 159 mm (6.2 in) and September reaching 192 mm (7.5 in). This trend continues into October, bringing an additional 199 mm (7.8 in). Notably, November marks a reduction in rainfall, dropping to 128 mm (5.0 in) over 20 days, while December sees a further decrease to 48 mm (1.9 in), culminating the year with significantly less wet weather. The cyclical pattern of precipitation in St. James not only defines its lush ecosystems but also emphasizes the importance of adaptability for both agriculture and daily life in the region.
In St. James, Jamaica, sunshine duration displays a remarkable seasonal trend, with hours steadily increasing from winter into summer. January begins the year with 247 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 300 hours in February. March marks a significant uptick, reaching 343 hours, highlighting the transition into the sunnier spring months. As the year progresses, April and May maintain high sunshine levels, with 341 hours and 329 hours respectively, before June solidifies the summer's grip with 331 hours of radiant sunshine. This upward trajectory continues into the heart of summer, with July peaking at an impressive 348 hours, showcasing St. James as a sun-drenched paradise.
As the season shifts towards the autumn months, sunshine hours begin to taper off but remain generous. Despite a slight reduction, August still provides 334 hours, while September and October experience a gradual decline to 314 hours and 303 hours respectively. Notably, November sees the most significant decrease, recording 287 hours, while December rebounds slightly to 309 hours. Overall, St. James enjoys a wealth of sunshine year-round, with distinct peaks during the summer months, making it an attractive destination for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The UV Index in St. James, Jamaica, indicates a persistent risk of harmful solar radiation throughout the year, peaking during the summer months. January starts with a UV Index of 9, categorized as "very high," which already signals the need for sun protection, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As February rolls in, the index rises to 11, entering the "extreme" exposure category, and remains at this elevated level through the spring and summer. From March through September, the UV Index consistently records a value of 13, requiring vigilance as the burn time shrinks to just 10 minutes, underscoring the intensity of the sun during this period.
As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 12 in October as the days grow shorter, yet it still remains within the "extreme" exposure zone. The trend continues into November and December, where the index decreases to 9 and 8 respectively, both categorized as "very high," allowing for slightly longer safe exposure times of 15 minutes. Overall, the UV Index in St. James emphasizes the importance of sun safety measures, especially from March to September, when sun protection is essential for avoiding skin damage under the strong tropical sun.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in St. James, Jamaica, reveals a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, characterized by a consistent range that aligns with seasonal changes. In the early months of January and February, the region enjoys 11 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities. As March approaches, daylight begins to increase, reaching 12 hours, and this duration continues into April and May, creating a perfect environment for springtime adventures and exploration under the vibrant Caribbean sun.
The longest days occur during the summer months of June and July, where residents and visitors experience 13 hours of daylight, making these ideal times for outdoor festivities. As August rolls in, daylight begins to taper off slightly, settling back to 12 hours for several months before reducing to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This ebb and flow of daylight highlights the tropical nature of St. James, where the relatively consistent hours of sunlight throughout the year foster a warm and inviting atmosphere for relaxation and recreation.
The climate in Anchovy, Jamaica is characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in April through July. Rainfall peaks during May with 240 mm (9.4 in), while February typically experiences the least precipitation at 42 mm (1.7 in). The area enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in March and July, boasting up to 349 hours of sun. For more details, visit Anchovy climate.
Cambridge, Jamaica, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in the cooler months to around 28°C (82°F) in the summer. Rainfall is highest from May to October, with May recording the most precipitation at 195 mm (7.7 in), while January and February are relatively drier. The region enjoys ample sunshine, with July boasting the most hours at 349. For more details, visit Cambridge climate.
Maroon Town, Jamaica experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in the summer months of June through August. Rainfall peaks between May and October, with May receiving the highest precipitation at 202 mm (7.9 in), while January and February are relatively drier. Sunshine hours fluctuate throughout the year, with July boasting the most at 346 hours. For detailed climate information, visit Maroon Town climate.
Montego Bay, Jamaica, enjoys a warm tropical climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Monthly average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) from June to September, with maximum temperatures peaking at 33°C (91°F) in April through July. Precipitation varies significantly, with May experiencing the highest rainfall of 240 mm (9.4 in), while drier months like February average just 42 mm (1.7 in). The region basks in abundant sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts 349 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Montego Bay climate.
In conclusion, St. James, Jamaica, emerges as a captivating destination defined by its favorable climate, vibrant sunshine, and significant UV exposure. The region experiences a rich tapestry of weather patterns, with warm temperatures and ample daylight supporting the lush landscapes and outdoor activities that attract visitors year-round. However, the consistently high UV Index serves as a reminder of the importance of sun safety, particularly during the extreme exposure months from March to September. Overall, St. James offers a unique blend of natural beauty and climatic warmth, making it an ideal setting for both relaxation and adventure while encouraging responsible enjoyment of its sunny delights.