The September weather in Jamaica has a reputation for being hot, humid, and downright stormy, but the reality is more balanced. Living here, I’ve seen Septembers with barely a handful of rainy afternoons and plenty of sunshine.
Yes, it’s the wettest month, but showers are usually quick bursts that cool things down, not all-day washouts.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly what to expect, from temperatures and humidity to rain patterns, hurricane risk, and even what it feels like on the ground.
And if you want the bigger picture, check out my full guide on year-round weather in Jamaica.
Quick Overview: September Weather at a Glance
September in Jamaica is hot, humid, and yes, it’s our wettest month. But don’t let the “rainy season” label fool you. Most days are still bright and sunny, with quick, refreshing showers that come and go before you’ve even finished a drink (unless a weather system is close by).
It’s also peak hurricane season, though direct hits are rare and most years pass without much fuss.
This is what you can count on the weather in September:
- Temperatures: Highs around 31 °C / 88 °F, lows near 25 °C / 77 °F.
- Rainfall: ~14 wet days; brief but heavy tropical downpours are common.
- Hurricane Risk: One of the most active months — keep an eye on forecasts.
- Sunshine: ~6–7 hours daily, often mixed with cloud cover.
- Sea Temperature: Balmy waters at 29–30 °C / 84–86 °F.
- Daylight: Around 12 hours, with sunsets just after 6 PM.
How Hot (and Humid) Does It Get in September?
So, yes, September comes with rain, but don’t get it twisted. Jamaica is still a tropical island, and it’s going to be HOT. The showers help cool things off, but the heat doesn’t disappear.
Daytime highs push into the low 90s°F (33°C), with nights rarely dipping below 76°F (24°C). Add humidity hovering near 85–90%, and you’ll understand why Jamaicans say “di place sticky bad” this time of year.
The upside? Those afternoon rain showers are like nature’s air conditioning, they cool things down just enough to make evenings manageable.
Common Questions About the Heat in September
I get asked these all the time, so let me break down the most common questions travelers have about handling the September heat
What temperatures should I expect?
Daytime: 86–90°F (30–32°C) | Nighttime: 75–80°F (24–27°C).Coastal spots feel cooler with sea breezes; Kingston holds heat more.
How does humidity affect comfort?
Humidity hits 70–80%, making it feel like 95°F (35°C) at midday. Mornings and evenings are less muggy, especially by the coast.
When’s the best time for activities?
- Perfect: Mornings and late afternoons
- Manageable: Early hiking (Blue Mountains), beach time with shade breaks
- Avoid: Midday sun (11 AM–3 PM) for long outdoor activities
Will I sleep comfortably?
Nights are cooler, but you’ll want A/C or a good fan. Most hotels have A/C, use it. I’ve slept with just windows open in breezy Negril, but not everywhere you’ll have the same results.
Average Temperatures in September
The Average Temperature in Jamaica in September
| Temperature Metric | Degrees Fahrenheit | Degrees Celsius |
|---|---|---|
| Average Temperature | 81.98°F | 27.8°C |
| Maximum Temperature | 90.14°F | 32.3°C |
| Minimum Temperature | 73.16°F | 22.9°C |
Source: Jamaican Meteorological Service (20-year Mean Temperatures 1996-2015), archived at Wayback Machine.
How Rainy is September in Jamaica?
We’ve already said it, September is one of Jamaica’s rainiest months, and yes, the showers do come.
That’s because the Caribbean basin is alive with tropical waves, thunderstorms, and the occasional depression passing nearby. But don’t picture endless downpours, most showers are quick bursts, and some years it hardly rains at all.
In reality, there’s often more sunshine than rain, and if you can handle a little unpredictability, you’ll enjoy plenty of beach time without the high-season crowds.
Common September Rain Questions
September rain is the big question mark for most visitors; here are the ones I get asked the most
Will it rain every day?
Not likely, I’ve seen years where it only rained a handful of afternoons, and even then it was never all-day.
Will it mess up my beach plans?
Mornings are golden; I always tell visitors to swim or snorkel early, because showers usually roll in later and pass quickly.
Will it feel cold and dreary?
Never, Jamaican rain is warm, almost like a tropical rinse, and the sun often returns right after.
How long do the showers last?
Most are done in 20–30 minutes.
What if there’s a storm nearby?
You might see more showers for a day or two, but in my experience direct hurricane hits are rare.
How should I plan my day?
If there is rain in the forecast, think of it as built-in downtime. Do activities in the morning, then use an afternoon shower as your cue to grab a drink, nap, or relax until the sun’s back
And if you’re the type who hates sitting still, here are my favourite things to do when it rains in Jamaica.
Average Rainfall Across Jamaica in September
| Parish | Average Rainfall (mm) | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Jamaica | 202 | 8.0 |
| Montego Bay | 222 | 8.7 |
| Ocho Rios | 103 | 4.1 |
| Negril | 254 | 10.0 |
| Port Antonio | 243 | 9.6 |
| Kingston | 206 | 8.1 |
Hurricane Season in September: Should You Worry?
Unfortunately, September is the peak of hurricane season in Jamaica. This is the part that makes travelers nervous, and fair enough.
But here’s what I always point out: a direct hit by a hurricane in September is extremely rare. .
The last time it happened was way back in 1988, when Hurricane Gilbert crossed the island. That was over 35 years ago, and we haven’t had a direct September strike since.
What most visitors experience instead is the ripple effect of tropical systems passing nearby. That usually means heavier afternoon showers or a gray day or two, not a full-blown hurricane.
What This Means for Travelers
- Direct hits are rare: On average, less than one per decade.
- Typical impacts: Passing systems that bring short-lived heavy rain and wind.
- Your best plan: Stay weather-aware, get travel insurance, and keep your itinerary flexible.
The truth? Most people who visit in September never see anything more dramatic than a quick downpour that clears in time for dinner, and at worst, you might get a day or two of heavier rain if a system passes close.
How September Weather Shapes Your Jamaica Experience
Beach & Water Activities
- Sea temps: 84–86°F (29–30°C)—warm and welcoming all month.
- Snorkeling/diving: Best early in the day when the water is calm.
- Fishing: Good for mahi-mahi and wahoo, though seas can be choppier with passing systems.
- Sunset sails: September skies can be stunning after rain, with fiery clouds and calm seas.
Adventure Activities
- Best times: Early mornings (cooler, drier) and late afternoons.
- Great options:
- Hiking in the Blue Mountains (misty and refreshing).
- Chasing waterfalls like Dunn’s River or YS Falls—powerful this time of year.
- Rafting the Martha Brae or Rio Grande during lush, green September.
Packing Smart for Jamaica in September
If you’re packing for September, think light, breathable, and flexible:
- Cotton or linen clothes (skip the heavy fabrics).
- A couple of swimsuits, you’ll live in them.
- High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (cloudy skies still burn).
- Mosquito repellent (they love the damp air).
- A light rain jacket or travel umbrella.
- Sandals + one pair of sturdy shoes for hiking.
- Reusable water bottle, hydration is key in the sticky heat.
Before You Go: Compare Jamaica’s Weather by Month
Still on the fence about September? Compare it with the months around it so you can pick your sweet spot:
- Weather in Jamaica in July
- Weather in Jamaica in August
- Weather in Jamaica in October
- Weather in Jamaica in November
