Weather in Montego Bay in January

How January compares

January is the 12th warmest month of the year in Montego Bay and ranks 18th of 134 destinations we compare for January - see where else is hot in January. Against London's average high of 7.4°C in January, Montego Bay is 20.4°C warmer by day and 20.2°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in January

The typical January day in Montego Bay peaks at 27.8°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 29.4°C or more. About 96% of days top 25°C and 1 in 26 pass 30°C. Nights average 22.4°C; one night in ten drops to 21.2°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest January day here reached 31.4°C (2019-01-27) and the coldest night 18.1°C (2010-01-11).

Rain in January

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 11 days with 1 mm or more, 46 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest January was 2018 with 160 mm, the driest 2008 with 13 mm. Humidity averages 81%.

Sea temperature in January

The sea averages 27.1°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 26.7°C to 27.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in September (29.6°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.9 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.0 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:47 and sets about 17:55 local time in mid-January. Average cloud cover is 37%.

Is January a good time to visit Montego Bay?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Montego Bay on our scoring are February, January, March; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot by UK standards, with warm evenings

Montego Bay's coolest month is still firmly hot-weather territory. Days reach 25°C on 96% of occasions, so January is a strong choice if reliable warmth matters more than intense heat. Only 4% of days reach 30°C, although the 81% humidity means you should still pace yourself around midday. Loose, breathable clothes make more sense than heavy layers, and shade breaks are sensible when you are active. Nights average 22°C, so evenings generally call for light clothing rather than a winter jacket. Compared with London's average January high of 7.4°C, this is a substantial change in conditions, not merely a milder version of home.

Plan for sunshine, but keep room for rain

January offers about 6.9 hours of sunshine within 11 hours of daylight, leaving plenty of scope for time outdoors without suggesting every day will be clear. Rain is a real part of the month, so keep outdoor plans flexible and pack a light waterproof that will not feel too heavy in humid weather. The rainy-day figure does not tell you how long rain will last, so do not assume either brief showers or entire days indoors. Swimming remains a strong reason to go: the sea is warm enough that a dip should not feel bracing. This month suits travellers who can accept some wet weather in return for dependable warmth.