Weather in Mexico in August

Is August a good time to visit Mexico?

August is considered low season for tourism in Mexico, because of the intense heat and humidity and the fact that it is right in the middle of the rainy season, with the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes on the Pacific and Yucatan coasts. If you don’t mind some heavy rain, however, and enjoy the heat, it’s a good time to take advantage of discounted accommodation offers at luxury resorts.The north of Mexico is scorching hot in August, and the central region has warm and wet weather.


Climate in Mexico in August

Monsoon-like rains characterize the weather in Mexico during August, particularly on the Mayan Riviera and Pacific Coast. Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula receives an average of 150mm of rain during August – not the wettest month of the year (which is September) but enough to up the humidity and ensure a heavy shower or two most days, usually in the evening.

On the Pacific Coast Acapulco is even wetter, with an average August rainfall of 312mm, falling in frequent, heavy and unpredictable showers.

Despite the rain the coastal resorts of Mexico are hot and humid during August, although breezes cool things down occasionally. The average maximum temperature for Cancun is 32°C (90°F), and the minimum 25°C(77°F), with humidity levels hovering around 78%. Conditions in Acapulco on the Pacific coast are similar.

Mexico City in elevated central Mexico is somewhat cooler, with an average maximum temperature for August of 24°C(75°F), and humidity of 64%. It rains here, too, in August, with an average rainfall of 152mm for the month.
 

Hurricanes and storms

Statistically the Caribbean, Pacific and Gulf coasts of Mexico are at risk of hurricanes and tropical storms in August, September and October, but since the chances of being hit by a storm during a holiday in Mexico are slim, many travelers decide to take the risk and take advantage of the special offers for flights and accommodation that tempt visitors to visit Mexico this time of year.

Most of the hotels and resorts have tried and tested plans in place for evacuation and safety in the event of being hit by a severe storm, and travelers are advised to have good travel insurance which covers evacuation costs, cancellation or cutting short your holiday.
 

What’s on Mexico in August

It may be the rainy season in Mexico in August, but that does not dampen the spirits of festive Mexicans, always ready to make merry. One of the major fiestas in August is the Huamantla Fair, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which sees the city streets of the town decorated with marvelous images created from flower petals and sawdust. The fair includes traditional dancing and a running of the bulls event.

A tasty event for visitors is the Fiestas de la Vendimia (Wine Festival) in Ensenada, Baja California, in early August, with wineries open for visits, tastings and plenty of fine dining and concerts on offer.
 

What to pack for a holiday in Mexico in August

The heat and humidity will drive you into the pool or ocean so a swimsuit is essential for a visit to Mexico in August. Loose, cool clothing in natural fibres will help you keep your cool, but you will also need a waterproof jacket or poncho on hand for those sudden, heavy showers – at the very least a good umbrella. Sunblock is always vital in Mexico, even when its wet, because the tropical sun is dangerous even behind the clouds.