You have May marked on your calendar for your much needed Jamaican getaway. I’m sure you’ve started daydreaming about lying on the white sand beaches, sipping on cocktails and listening to the waves crash against the shore.
But before you start packing your swimsuits and sunglasses, let’s take a look at what’s the weather like in Jamaica in May.
Keep on reading to learn about the temperatures you can expect, how much rainfall to anticipate and more.
So let’s get started.
What Is the Weather Like in Jamaica in May? (An Overview)
May marks the beginning of Jamaica’s first rainy season, which typically lasts until June. Despite this, May is still a great month for tourism, despite the increased rainfall.
Being a tropical island, Jamaica experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, with May being no exception. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional downpours and thunderstorms during this month.
Here is a breakdown of what the weather will be like in May in Jamaica, including average temperatures and rainfall.
How Hot is it in Jamaica in May? (Average Temperature)
If you’re planning a trip to Jamaica in May, you’re in for a treat. As the island gets closer to summer, temperatures begin to creep up and the sun shines for longer hours. This means more time to enjoy the beach, go on hikes, and participate in other outdoor activities.
Let’s look at what temperatures you can expect:
- Minimum temperature: 75.2 degrees F (24.0 degrees C)
- Maximum temperature: 89.8 degrees F (32.1 degrees C)
- Average temperature: 82.4 degrees F (28.0 degrees C)
It’s important to keep in mind that the temperatures mentioned here are only averages. Although you can anticipate similar temperature ranges throughout the island, certain areas may experience hotter or cooler temperatures than others.
How Much Rain Does Jamaica Get in May?
May is the start of Jamaica’s first rainy season, and as such, it is typically the first month of the year to experience a significant amount of rainfall.
The Average rainfall in Jamaica in May is: 201 millimeters (7.9 inches)
May is one of the wettest months out of the year outside of the hurricane season. There are some days, where you will experience heavy rain showers. This can be a result of tropical thunderstorms that make their way over the island.
The good news is that for the most-part it won’t rain every day in May. Even on the days that it does rain, the showers are usually short-lived.
The amount of rain you experience also depends on what part of the island you’re staying. If you’re in Montego Bay, rainfall is less common than if you were in Portland.
Below is a table that highlights the average amount of rainfall in some of Jamaica’s popular tourist areas.
| Location | Average Rainfall (mm) | Average Rainfall (Inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Jamaica | 201 | 7.91 |
| Montego Bay | 189 | 7.44 |
| Ocho Rios | 158 | 6.22 |
| Negril | 274 | 10.79 |
| Portland | 292 | 11.50 |
| Kingston | 152 | 5.98 |
Is May Hurricane Season in Jamaica?
May isn’t hurricane season in Jamaica. However, even though the Hurricane season starts from June 1 and ends Nov 30, there’s still an extremely small chance that a hurricane could form closer to the end of May.
This is rare and would most likely only happen if there was an unusually long and intense tropical disturbance in the Atlantic basin.
The best way to stay up to date on weather conditions is by checking the news or a reliable weather site before your trip.
What to Pack for a Trip to Jamaica in May?
Now that you know what the weather is like in Jamaica in May, it’s time to start packing!
Here’s a list of items you should consider bringing for your trip:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or visor
- Comfortable shoes
- Sandals
While you know the regular items you should bring on any trip, it is good to pack rain gear just in case you experience a shower.
an small umbrella might be helpful if you’re out on a tour or exploring the island and a sudden downpour starts.
Conclusion
The weather in Jamaica in May is warm and sunny with some occasional showers. The average temperature is 80. degrees F (27. degrees C) and the average rainfall is 201 millimeters (79. inches). May isn’t hurricane season, but there’s still a small chance of a hurricane forming. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable shoes, and rain gear just in case. With a little bit of preparation, you’re sure to have a great time on your Jamaican vacation!
Check out our other articles for more information on what to expect during different times of the year.
Related Posts
- Weather in Jamaica in December
- Weather in Jamaica in January
- Weather in Jamaica in March
- Weather in Jamaica in April
