Havana Weather Guide: Tropical Climate & Seasonal Patterns

Havana is defined by a tropical savanna climate, where the rhythm of life is closely tied to distinct wet and dry seasons. Positioned on the northwestern coast of Cuba, the city's weather is a balance between intense Caribbean sun and the refreshing influence of the Atlantic trade winds.

Seasonal Trends

The Dry Season (November–April)
This is widely considered the most comfortable time of year. Daytime temperatures typically range from 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F) with significantly lower humidity than the summer months. The skies are generally clear, and rainfall is infrequent, often occurring as short-lived showers that pass quickly.

The Wet Season (May–October)
During this period, Havana becomes hot and oppressive. Temperatures frequently climb above 30°C (86°F), and humidity levels can reach 80% or higher. Rainfall peaks in June and September, typically manifesting as intense, short-lived afternoon thunderstorms. This season also coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 – November 30), with August and September being the highest-risk months for tropical storms.

Daily Weather Cycle

In Havana, the day often begins with clear skies and a gentle breeze. As the sun climbs, the temperature rises rapidly, reaching its peak between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. In the summer, this heat often triggers convective activity, leading to heavy but brief downpours in the late afternoon. Evenings are generally warm, though during the dry season, the "cooling down" effect is more pronounced as the city benefits from the terral (land breeze) at night.

Local Phenomena and Microclimates

• Cold Fronts (Frentes Fríos): From December to February, Havana is occasionally affected by cold fronts moving south from the United States. These events can drop temperatures to a surprisingly chilly 15°C (59°F) and are often accompanied by strong northwest winds and coastal flooding along the Malecón.
• The Malecón Microclimate: The iconic seawall acts as a weather boundary. Locations directly along the coast benefit from the constant sea breeze (el virazón), which makes the air feel cooler than in the densely packed streets of Centro Habana or Old Havana, where the colonial architecture can trap heat.
• Surdes: Occasional southerly winds, known as surdes, can bring exceptionally dry and hot air to the city, usually occurring just before the arrival of a cold front.

Historical Context and Local Adaptation

Havana has a long history of managing weather extremes, notably hurricanes and coastal surges. The city’s infrastructure, such as the historic Albear Aqueduct, was designed to manage the fluctuations between drought and heavy rainfall.

Locals have adapted to the heat through architectural and social habits. Many homes features high ceilings and large shutters to encourage cross-ventilation. During the peak afternoon heat, the city often slows down, with residents seeking shade and social activity resuming in the late afternoon and evening when the temperature begins to dip. In the winter, despite being a tropical city, locals are quick to don sweaters and light jackets the moment the temperature drops below 20°C (68°F), a testament to how sensitive the population is to even minor shifts in their otherwise consistent warmth.

What It Feels Like

Beyond the thermometer, Havana weather is about the "real feel." In summer, the high humidity creates an "oppressive" sensation where the air feels heavy and thick. In contrast, the dry season feels crisp and energizing. The sea breeze is perhaps the most critical component of Havana's climate; it provides a salty, cooling relief that makes exploring the city on foot much more manageable during the sun-drenched midday hours.