Mexico City

Climate Characteristics of Mexico City

General Overview

Mexico City is located at an altitude of approximately 2,240 meters (7,350 feet) above sea level, giving it a Subtropical Highland Climate. Contrary to Mexico's scorching image, the capital's weather is mild and temperate year-round, with significant differences between day and night and between the dry and rainy seasons.

Summer and Rainy Season (May to October)

Summer in Mexico City coincides with the rainy season. Daytime temperatures range from 24°C to 27°C (75-81°F), but unlike coastal areas, there is no oppressive humidity. Rain usually falls in the afternoon or evening in intense but brief showers, after which the skies clear. July and August are the wettest months.

Winter and Dry Season (November to April)

Winter is the driest and clearest season. Days are pleasant and sunny (around 21°C/70°F), but nights and early mornings can be very chilly, sometimes approaching freezing, especially in January. Interestingly, the hottest months are March and April, just before the rains begin, when temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F).

Special Phenomena

Due to its location in a mountain-surrounded valley and its high elevation, the city occasionally suffers from air pollution, particularly in late winter (February-March) when there is little wind or rain to clear the air. Snow is extremely rare in the city itself but common on the surrounding volcanic peaks.

Weather in Mexico City by Month

January

The coldest month. Sunny and pleasant days (21°C/70°F) but very cold nights (average 6°C/43°F). Almost no rain.

February

Starts to warm up slightly (23°C/73°F daytime). Skies are very clear, and it is one of the driest months of the year.

March

The beginning of spring and the warm season. Temperatures climb to 26°C (79°F) during the day. Nights become less chilly but remain fresh.

April

The hottest and driest month. Temperatures reach 27°C (81°F) or more during the day. First rain showers may start toward the end of the month.

May

Warm (27°C/81°F) and the start of the rainy season. Afternoon showers become more frequent, helping to cool the city.

June

Temperatures drop slightly to 25°C (77°F) due to increased cloud cover. Rain falls frequently, mostly in the evenings.

July

Peak of the rainy season and the wettest month. Daytime temperatures are around 23°C (73°F). Rains are intense but usually do not last all day.

August

Similar to July. Very rainy with comfortable temperatures of 23°C (73°F) during the day and pleasant nights (12°C/54°F).

September

Still very rainy. Daytime temperatures are around 23°C (73°F). This month has significant cloud cover and fewer hours of direct sun.

October

Transition to the dry season. Rainfall decreases significantly, and daytime temperatures remain pleasant (23°C/73°F). Nights begin to cool down.

November

Dry and sunny. Daytime temperatures are around 22°C (72°F), and nights become cooler (8°C/46°F). Visibility improves greatly.

December

Dry and clear. Pleasant days for touring (21°C/70°F) but very cold nights (6°C/43°F). The second coldest month of the year.