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For much of the year Jamaica’s weather is as near perfect as one could wish for - plenty of sunshine, not too hot and pleasant cooling breezes. But there are considerable variations throughout the year and across the island. Temperature-wise one month is much like another with maximum temperatures between 30 and 32 Celsius (86 to 90F). while minimum temperatures are rarely below 19 Celsius (66F).
With fairly stiff northeasterly trade winds ensuring relatively low humidity levels, it is rarely likely to feel uncomfortable. Annual rainfall is generally low, at least on the coast. But the Blue Mountains extend to over 2,300 metres and on their northern slopes there can be as much as 5,000 millimetres of rain each year. This contrasts with just 750 on the sheltered south coast.
 The one hazard which needs to be borne in mind is hurricanes. From June to November is hurricane season, with a peak in August and September.
The worst of these tropical cyclones can deposit as much as 500 millimetres of rain in two or three days. And wind speeds can be in excess of 250 kilometres per hour. But only two or three major hurricanes occur in the Caribbean each year. An island such as Jamaica can go several years without experiencing such a hurricane. So when is the best time to visit? Any time between December and April should see a good deal of fine, sunny weather perhaps punctuated by an occasional heavy shower. | 
Motorway gridlock special
