Last updated: January 18, 2025
Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, exhibits a tropical monsoon climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Am. The city's temperature profile is characterized by a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in February, climbing to an average of 26°C (80°F) throughout the year, and peaking at 31°C (88°F) in October. This warm climate, dominated by high humidity and substantial rainfall, fosters a rich biodiversity and supports vibrant ecosystems, making Mayagüez a unique location for studying tropical weather patterns and their environmental impacts.
The temperature patterns in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, reveal a warm tropical climate with only slight variations throughout the year. From January to March, the minimum temperatures hover around 22-23°C (72-73°F), while average highs consistently reach 28°C (84°F). As spring transitions into summer in April and May, temperatures gradually increase, with averages rising to 26°C (78°F) and 29°C (85°F), respectively. The peak of summer, particularly in July and August, sees maximum temperatures soaring up to 31°C (88°F), coupled with consistent averages of 28°C (82°F). As the year progresses into the fall, temperatures moderate slightly, with averages around 27-28°C (81-82°F), and the cooler months of December and January return to 23-24°C (74-75°F) for minimums, illustrating a distinct but mild seasonal fluctuation typical of a tropical monsoon climate.
In Mayagueez, temperatures vary throughout the year, with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in February and a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in October. For more detailed information, you can check the monthly temperatures in Mayagueez here: monthly temperatures in Mayagueez.
Precipitation patterns in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, demonstrate a clear seasonal trend, with notable variations throughout the year. The year begins relatively dry, with January receiving just 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain over approximately 4 days, gradually increasing to 21 mm (0.8 in) by February. As spring approaches, March and April show a rise in rainfall to 38 mm (1.5 in) and 39 mm (1.5 in), respectively. May marks the transition to the wetter summer months, with precipitation reaching 49 mm (1.9 in) as rain events become more frequent.
The peak of the rainy season occurs in September, when Mayagüez witnesses a significant increase in precipitation, receiving 141 mm (5.5 in) over 18 days. Following September, October and November experience substantial rainfall as well, with 71 mm (2.8 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in), respectively. By December, precipitation decreases to 19 mm (0.8 in), concluding the year on a drier note. Overall, the rainfall distribution reflects the typical tropical monsoon climate, highlighting the crucial role of seasonal variations in the region's hydrology.
Sunshine duration in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, showcases a clear seasonal progression, marked by increasing hours of daylight as winter transitions to summer. Beginning the year, January records 261 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises in February to 307 hours. March and April see even more pronounced increases, jumping to 347 hours and 352 hours, respectively. This upward trend continues into May, with a peak of 361 hours, facilitating longer and sunnier days as the region embraces the summer months.
As summer progresses, sunshine duration remains relatively consistent, with 361 hours in both July and May, followed closely by 352 hours in June and August. Interestingly, September experiences a slight decline, offering 316 hours, yet it still retains ample sunshine. The year concludes with November reflecting 298 hours and December rebounding slightly to 320 hours. Overall, the sunshine pattern indicates robust daylight months during late spring and summer, while the cooler months of late autumn and winter present shorter days, contributing to an inviting tropical atmosphere year-round.
The UV Index in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, reflects the region's strong solar intensity, particularly evident during the peak months of the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers a very high level of 9, indicating a potential burn time of just 15 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, February presents an increase to 11, categorized as extreme, with recommended precautions intensifying. The trend continues upward, peaking in May at 14, where the UV Index remains extreme. The months of March, April, June, July, August, and September consistently record 13, emphasizing the critical need for sun protection as the risk of harm from sun exposure remains exceptionally high throughout these months.
As the year progresses into autumn, the UV levels begin to decrease, with October showing a slight dip to 12, still within the extreme range. November and December feature a return to very high UV Index values of 9 and 8, respectively, with shorter burn times returning to 15 minutes. The overall analysis underscores the importance of vigilance against UV exposure in Mayagüez, especially during the high and extreme months from February to September, urging residents and visitors alike to adopt sun-safe practices year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, exhibits a relatively stable pattern, characterized by slight variations throughout the year. Both January and February enjoy 11 hours of daylight, establishing a consistent start to the year. As spring unfolds in March, daylight begins to increase, reaching 12 hours and sustaining this length through April and May. The onset of summer in June brings an extended duration of 13 hours, allowing residents to bask in longer days filled with sunlight.
As the summer months roll into July, daylight maintains its peak at 13 hours, before gradually decreasing to 12 hours in August and September, indicating a transition toward autumn. By October, the daylight duration diminishes to 11 hours, a pattern that persists through November and December. This overall trend emphasizes the tropical climate's relatively consistent daylight hours, ensuring that Mayagüez experiences a vibrant and sunlit environment year-round, with only modest fluctuations tied to the changing seasons.
Mayagueez, Puerto Rico experiences warm and humid weather in May, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), and an average temperature of 26°C (80°F). This month sees a total precipitation of 49 mm (1.9 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. Enjoying around 361 hours of sunshine, May offers ample time for outdoor activities despite the occasional rain. Overall, the climate is tropical, characterized by warmth and humidity throughout the month. For more detailed information, visit Mayagueez climate.
In conclusion, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, presents a captivating climate characterized by its tropical monsoon classification, with warm temperatures, substantial rainfall, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. The distinct seasonal trends in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, and UV Index highlight the region's unique environment and climatic dynamics. With consistently high UV levels, particularly from February to September, and prolonged daylight hours during the summer, residents and visitors must prioritize sun safety and hydration. This comprehensive understanding of Mayagüez’s climate not only enhances appreciation for its natural beauty but also emphasizes the importance of adapting to its conditions for personal health and well-being.