Climate in Haiti

Haiti has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -4°C in the coldest regions to highs of 38°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 50mm in drier regions to 392mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 193cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain cold, making Haiti a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Haiti vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The North is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 38°C and an annual average of 26°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southwest, where winter lows drop to -4°C and an annual average of 1°C. This 25°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Haiti they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 28°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Gonaïves in the Département de l'Artibonite averages 26°C annually, while Les Cayes in the Sud averages 1°C.

Haiti sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 50mm to 392mm per year. The South receives the most rainfall, at approximately 392mm annually. The North is the driest, with around 50mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Southwest sees the most snowfall, with up to 193cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Travellers should pack rain gear when visiting wetter areas, while drier regions offer more favourable conditions throughout the year.