The weather in Jamaica can vary greatly across the island because
of its size and changes in altitude. Temperatures along the coast
average between 71º and 88 degreesº F year round and are sometimes
cooled by northeast tradewinds. Winters can bring some chilly nights
and early mornings, but typically less rainfall occurs during this season.
The exception here would be in the mountains and on the northeast side
of the island.
The temperatures inland can vary greatly from those on the shore,
and typically decrease about 1ºF for every 300 feet increasein
elevation.The areas around Port Antonio and the Blue
Mountains are usually the chilliest as well as the wettest. Average
rainfall for the entire island is about 80 inches per year. There
are two "rainy seasons"-- May and October-November.
As "tourist seasons" go, mid-December to mid-April is considered
"high season" and the remaining months comprise Jamaica's "off-season."
As to be expected, travel and accomodations costs are considerably lower
during the off-season.
Croal
Island Associates