Belize has a tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The country experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the latter falling between February and May, and the former from June to December. The wet season sees parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain, with the northern region generally receiving less rainfall than the extreme south. The dry season, on the other hand, brings milder temperatures and short bursts of rain. Even during the hottest summer months, coastal sea breezes and Belize's large tracts of jungle and rainforests provide cooling relief. Similarly, winters are cool but never extremely cold, with temperatures rarely dipping below 60°F (16°C).
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Average yearly temperature | 84° F (29°C) |
Yearly temperature range | 50°F - 95°F |
Average yearly humidity | 85% |
Seasons | Wet and dry, rather than four seasons |
Dry season | February to May |
Wet season | June to December |
Wettest months | May to October |
Hurricane season | September to October |
Winter | November to January |
Water temperature | 79°F - 83°F |
What You'll Learn
Belize's dry season falls between February and May
February is a great month to visit Belize, with very little rainfall and mild daytime temperatures of around 80°F (27°C). The nights are cooler, but still warm enough for t-shirts and sandals, rarely dropping below 70°F (21°C). The weather in February makes it a perfect time to explore the rainforest.
March is another pleasant month, with clear days and nights uninterrupted by rain. The temperature rises slightly, with averages of 83°F (28°C) during the day and 74°F (23°C) at night.
In April, temperatures continue to rise, marking the onset of the "Iguana Rains". These are short, cooling showers that appear along the coast, keeping temperatures pleasant and excess humidity at bay. Days can reach 85°F (29°C) and nights stay warm at 76°F (24°C).
May is another warm month, with temperatures climbing to an average high of 87°F (31°C) and lows of 79°F (26°C). There may be some light showers in the morning, and the occasional thunderstorm at night.
The dry season in Belize is a great time for tourists to visit, with plenty of warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds. The country experiences a tropical climate, with cooling breezes from the Caribbean Sea. The temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) and the average yearly temperature is 84°F (29°C).
The Blue Hole's Deadly Secrets
You may want to see also
The wet season runs from June to December
Belize's Weather During the Wet Season
The wet season in Belize runs from June through to December, bringing with it hot and humid weather. During this period, the country experiences heavy rainfall, with parts of Belize receiving up to 150 inches of rain. The wet season also overlaps with the hurricane season, which typically occurs between August and October.
The amount of rainfall varies across the country. For instance, the northern region of Corozal receives around 40-60 inches of rain annually, while the southern region of Punta Gorda receives approximately 160-190 inches. This variation is due to the influence of trade winds from the Caribbean coast, which can impact the coastal regions, particularly the Cayes, where tropical breezes provide natural air conditioning.
Despite the wet season bringing heavy rainfall, it is not uncommon to experience sunny days with warm temperatures. The average temperature during the wet season ranges from 82°F (28°C) to 86°F (30°C). However, the frequent afternoon showers and trade winds help to maintain cooler temperatures.
The wet season in Belize offers a unique opportunity to experience the country's natural beauty. The rainforests come to life, and the short bursts of rain provide a refreshing break from the heat. It is also a great time to take advantage of cheaper airfare and accommodation rates, as it falls outside of the peak tourist season. However, travellers should be aware of potential challenges, such as swollen rivers, muddy roads, and closures of certain caves due to safety concerns.
Overall, the wet season in Belize provides a mix of rainfall and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. It is a great time to explore the country's natural attractions and take part in outdoor activities, such as fishing, diving, and snorkelling, while also enjoying the quieter atmosphere before the peak tourist season.
Maya Civilization's Rich Legacy in Belize
You may want to see also
The temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C)
Belize has a comfortable tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84° F (29°C). Even in winter, the temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C). The country experiences coastal sea breezes and benefits from large areas of jungle and rainforest, which provide cooling relief in the hottest months. The climate is so mild that Belize has two seasons, rather than four: the wet and the dry.
The dry season in Belize falls between February and May. During this time, there is significantly less rainfall than the rest of the year, and when rain does come, it is usually in mild, short bursts. The dry season is the main tourist season, with February being the driest month. The temperature peaks in April and May, with highs of 87°F (31°C) and 89°F (32°C) respectively.
The wet season runs from June to December, with parts of the country receiving up to 150 inches of rain. This period is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather. The wet season is considered the off-season for tourism, but it is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of cheaper accommodation. The wettest months are September and October.
The temperature in Belize varies so little throughout the year that it is hard to differentiate between hot and cold seasons. The daily temperature range is around 10°C, from the hottest part of the day to the coolest part of the night. The coolest months are November to February, with an average temperature of 75°F (24°C). The hottest months are May to September, with an average of 81°F (27°C).
Location is a factor when it comes to temperature in Belize. The uplands, such as the Mountain Pine Ridge and the Maya Mountains, are cooler than the rest of the country, with temperatures falling by about 3°C for every 1000ft rise in altitude. The mountains can be relatively cold, and blankets will be needed at night. The coastal regions also experience variations due to trade winds from the Caribbean coast.
Belize City Family Adventure
You may want to see also
The average yearly temperature is 84°F (29°C)
Belize has a very comfortable tropical climate with an average yearly temperature of 84°F (29°C). The coastal sea breezes, large tracts of jungle, and rainforests provide cooling relief even in the hottest summer months. The temperature rarely falls below 60°F (16°C) in winter, while in summer the mercury sits at around 86°F (30°C). The humidity is also fairly consistent at around 85%.
Belize has two seasons—the wet and the dry—rather than four, due to its consistent year-round temperatures. The dry season falls between February and May, with significantly less rainfall than the rest of the year. When it does rain during this season, it is usually in mild, short bursts. The wet season, from June to December, sees parts of the country receive up to 150 inches of rain. The heavy, wild storms associated with the Caribbean typically occur in the late afternoon.
The wet season is also hurricane season, and while Belize does not attract many major direct hits, it does experience severe tropical weather. However, the country has an effective early warning network and safety procedures in place.
The dry season is the main tourist season, with the wet season being the off-season. However, the mild nature of Belize's climate means visitors can enjoy the country year-round.
The temperature in Belize varies so little throughout the year that the distinction between hot and cold seasons is not very meaningful. The daily temperature range is around 10°C from the hottest part of the day to the coolest part of the night. In the uplands (Mountain Pine Ridge and the Maya Mountains), temperatures fall by about 3°C for every 1000 ft rise in altitude.
Belize's Best-Kept Secret: The Perfect Months to Visit
You may want to see also
The wettest months are from May to October
Belize's Weather: The Wet Season
Belize has a tropical climate, with comfortable temperatures throughout the year. The average yearly temperature is 84° F (29°C), with the mercury rarely falling below 60°F (16°C) in winter, and sitting at around 86°F (30°C) in summer. Even in the hottest summer months, coastal sea breezes and the country's large tracts of jungle and rainforest provide cooling relief.
Belize has two seasons: the wet and the dry. The wettest months are from May to October, with the country receiving between 50 and 180 inches of rainfall during this period. The northern region typically receives less rainfall than the extreme south. The wet season is also hurricane season, which peaks in September and October.
During the wet season, temperatures can sometimes be high, but trade winds bring cooler and more humid air. There is still plenty of sun during these months, especially in the northern parts of the country.
The wet season is also when the rainforests of Belize truly come to life. The short bursts of mid-afternoon rain serve to cool the country, and rivers begin to swell. However, the wet season can also bring challenges. Dirt roads become muddy, and some remote roads may become inaccessible. Heavy rainfall can also make some caves dangerous and, therefore, closed to the public. Southern Belize is especially precarious during the wet season, receiving two to three times as much rain as the rest of the country.
When to Visit During the Wet Season
Despite the rain, the wet season is a great time to visit Belize. You can take advantage of the quieter tourist season, with fewer crowds and more affordable prices for flights and accommodation. The early months of the wet season, especially May and June, are a wonderful time to travel to Belize and take advantage of these lower prices. The only downside is that it falls outside the lobster season, so you'll miss out on this local specialty.
Belize vs Jamaica: Size Comparison
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The average yearly temperature in Belize is 84° F (29°C), with a mean annual temperature of 79°F (26°C).
The rainy season in Belize starts in June and ends in October. However, the wettest months are from May to October, with the country receiving up to 180 inches of rainfall during this period.
The dry season in Belize runs from November to May, with the driest months being February and March.
Summer high temperatures in Belize typically exceed 94° F (34°C), with the overall climate being hot and humid. The summer months are also part of the rainy season, with frequent rainfall and thunderstorms.