The weather in Punta Gorda, Belize, is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 90s Fahrenheit. The summers are short and overcast, while the winters are also short, but warm and mostly clear. Thunderstorms are common, and the area experiences a lot of rainfall, especially during the wet season from May to December. The dry season, from December to mid-April, is considered the best time to visit Belize if you want to enjoy warm, sunny weather. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, May and early June are recommended. So, if you're planning a trip to Punta Gorda, be prepared for some hot and humid weather, with a good chance of afternoon thunderstorms and rain!
What You'll Learn
Punta Gorda's weather in May
Punta Gorda, Belize, is a great place to visit in May if you're looking to enjoy warm weather. The summer season is just getting started, and while it's not the hottest month of the year, you can still expect temperatures to reach as high as 33°C.
The average daily high temperature in Punta Gorda during the summer months is above 88°F, and the summer itself is short and hot. The hottest month is actually June, with an average high of 89°F, so you can expect a similar temperature in late May. The average low for the year is 69°F, but this is unlikely to be reached in May, with the temperature rarely dropping below 64°F.
The good news for visitors is that May is still considered part of the dry season, which ends in mid-April. This means you can expect less rain than in the winter months, with April typically seeing the least rainfall of the year. However, the wet season begins on May 23rd, so if you're visiting later in the month, you may experience some rain.
In the first few weeks of May, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a small chance of slight rain. The maximum temperature will be a very warm 33°C, while the minimum will be a still-balmy 25-26°C. As the month goes on, you can expect more cloud cover and a higher chance of rain, with occasional thunderstorms.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds, May is a great time to visit Punta Gorda. The dry season, from December to mid-April, is the most popular time for tourists, so you'll find the town much quieter in May.
Belize Weather in Late February
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The temperature in Punta Gorda
In contrast, the cool season in Punta Gorda runs from November 28 to February 10, with average daily highs below 83°F. January, the coldest month, has an average high of 81°F and a low of 69°F. Despite being the cool season, the temperature remains warm, and winters are typically short and wet, with mostly clear skies.
During my last search in late May, the temperature in Punta Gorda was forecasted to be in the low to mid-80s °F, with passing clouds and showers. However, in the following days, the temperature was expected to rise to the low 90s °F, with a mix of sunshine and cloud cover.
The best time for warm-weather activities in Punta Gorda is typically from mid-December to mid-March, coinciding with the dry season. If you prefer fewer crowds, visiting in May and early June is recommended, as this period sees slightly lower temperatures and fewer tourists.
Belize's November Weather
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Thunderstorms and rain in Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, Belize, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Thunderstorms and rain are common occurrences in the region, particularly during the wet season, which typically lasts from May to December.
During the wet season, the weather in Punta Gorda can be unpredictable, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. These storms can bring strong winds, lightning, and even hail, making outdoor activities challenging. The rain typically comes in short, intense bursts, with downpours that can last for a few hours, followed by periods of sunshine. The humidity is also high during this season, making the air feel thick and oppressive.
The thunderstorms in Punta Gorda are often accompanied by dramatic cloud formations. Dark, rolling clouds can fill the sky, creating an impressive display of nature's power. The sound of thunder echoes across the landscape, and the lightning illuminates the skies. While these storms can be captivating, they can also be dangerous, with the potential for flash floods and strong winds causing damage.
Despite the frequent thunderstorms and rain, Punta Gorda still experiences warm temperatures throughout the year. Even during the wet season, the temperatures rarely dip below 64°F (18°C), making it a pleasant escape from colder climates. The warm temperatures and tropical climate support lush vegetation, with vibrant greenery and an array of exotic flowers.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Punta Gorda offers a range of activities, even during the wet season. The rain can bring a sense of adventure to activities like river tubing, offering a unique and exhilarating experience. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the south of Belize, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering the chance to spot jaguars and explore the diverse wildlife of the region.
Belize Weather in May: Sunny and Warm
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Best time to visit Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, Belize, is a great destination to visit all year round, but there are some times of the year that are better than others depending on what you are looking for.
The summers in Punta Gorda are short and hot, with temperatures rarely falling below 64°F. The hottest month is June, with an average high of 89°F and a low of 76°F. The weather is usually overcast during this time, with occasional rain showers. If you're looking for warm weather and don't mind the clouds, this is a good time to visit.
The "dry season" in Belize is from December to mid-April, and this is the best time to visit if you want to go river tubing. During this period, you can expect clearer skies and less rain, with temperatures still warm and comfortable. The tourism score is highest during this time, specifically from mid-December to mid-March.
If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Punta Gorda in May and early June. The weather during these months can be pleasant, with a mix of sunshine and clouds, and slightly cooler temperatures. However, there is a higher chance of slight rain during this period.
The winters in Punta Gorda are short and warm, with temperatures rarely falling below 69°F. This is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy clear skies and drier weather, as the rainy season typically lasts from May to December.
Overall, the best time to visit Punta Gorda depends on your preferences. For warm weather and the driest conditions, go between mid-December and mid-March. If you want to avoid the crowds and don't mind a slight chance of rain, May and early June are good options.
Belize Weather in March: Sunny and Warm
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Punta Gorda's climate and seasons
Punta Gorda, Belize, has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The weather is typically warm to hot and humid throughout the year, with occasional rainfall.
Summers in Punta Gorda are short, hot, and overcast. The hottest month is typically June, with average temperatures ranging from 76°F to 89°F. The summer months can also experience isolated thunderstorms and occasional rain showers.
Winters, on the other hand, are short, warm, and wet, with more clear days than in summer. The coolest month is January, with temperatures ranging from 69°F to 81°F. While winters are generally drier than summers, there can still be occasional rainfall and isolated thunderstorms.
The dry season in Punta Gorda typically lasts from December to mid-April, making it a popular time for tourists to visit. The wet season, from May to December, sees an increase in rainfall and humidity, with September typically being the wettest month.
Throughout the year, the temperature in Punta Gorda rarely dips below 64°F or rises above 94°F, contributing to the consistently warm and humid climate. The humidity can make the heat feel more oppressive, especially during the summer months.
The clearest month in Punta Gorda is typically January, with a higher likelihood of clear skies or partial cloudiness. In contrast, June is often the cloudiest month, with a high percentage of overcast or mostly cloudy days.
Belize Weather in September: Sunny and Warm
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Frequently asked questions
The summers in Punta Gorda are short, hot, and overcast. The hottest month is June, with an average high of 89°F.
Winters are short, warm, wet, and mostly clear. The coldest month is January, with an average low of 69°F.
Today, the weather in Punta Gorda is forecast to be 95°F, with isolated thunderstorms, and overcast skies.