Climate, temperatures, and the rainy season
in Mexico

The Seasons in Mexico

Generally speaking, the Mexican year is divided into two distinct seasons. The dry season, which runs from October to May, is by far the best time for travelers. The skies are clear, the days are sunny, and humidity is low: it’s the ideal time to explore colonial cities, archaeological sites, Pacific beaches, or the trails of Chiapas.

Conversely, the rainy season, from June to September, brings showers that are often brief but intense, usually in the late afternoon. This period, though more humid, also has its charms: nature bursts into green, rivers come back to life, and tropical landscapes are more vibrant than ever. Traveling in the summer simply requires a bit more flexibility in planning your days, opt for morning excursions and plan a break in a covered area in the late afternoon.

Temperatures and Weather in Mexico

MEXICO’S CLIMATE MONTH BY MONTH

CLIMATE CHARACTERISTICS BY AREA

IMPORTANT NOTES

MEXICO CITY WEATHER

The Rainy Season in Mexico

The rainy season lasts from June to mid-October across most of Mexico, marking a significant climatic transition. Contrary to popular belief, showers typically occur in the late afternoon and last only about an hour, giving way to mornings that are often sunny. This period is characterized by higher temperatures around 30°C and rains that can be quite heavy, sometimes making travel difficult. The risk of hurricanes is particularly high between August and October-November, especially on the Yucatán Peninsula and along the coasts, with weather phenomena that can cause strong winds and flooding. Despite these challenges, the rainy season transforms Mexico’s landscapes into lush green oases, offering more affordable rates for adventurous travelers willing to cope with this unpredictable weather.

Tropical Cyclones

Certain regions, particularly the coasts, are vulnerable to tropical cyclones. The Yucatán Peninsula, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southern Pacific coast may be affected between June and November. Although major storms, such as Hurricanes Gilbert (1988), Wilma (2005), and Kenna (2002), remain rare, Mexican authorities now have effective warning systems in place. Generally, trips are not disrupted, provided you stay informed.

Winds and Rain

The prevailing winds, the famous trade winds blowing from the northeast, also play a crucial role. Full of humidity, they enter via the Gulf of Mexico and dump their rain on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Madre and Chiapas. But once they cross the mountains, these winds reach the already arid highlands, which explains the relative dryness of the country’s center. This is particularly true in the “Bolsones” region in the north, where the distance from the sea, combined with the effect of the mountain ranges, creates near-desert conditions. Summers there are scorching, winters sometimes freezing, and rainfall is almost nonexistent. To the west, the Pacific slope receives less humidity than the Caribbean coast. However, during the summer, Pacific cyclones can bring sporadic rains, especially in the southern part of the country. In contrast, Baja California and northwestern Mexico remain among the driest areas on the continent.

Current temperature and wind chart for Mexico

Overall, it is estimated that 49% of Mexico’s territory has a dry climate, 23.2% has a temperate climate (humid or sub-humid), and 27.7% has a hot and humid climate. Areas located between 400 and 1,500 meters in elevation are often the most pleasant to live in and visit, offering a nice balance between warmth and coolness.