Tijuana

Climate Characteristics of Tijuana

General Overview

Tijuana enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Unlike other parts of Mexico, the climate here strongly resembles that of Southern California—mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures, so the city rarely suffers from extreme heat or freezing cold.

Summer and Warm Months (June to September)

Summer in Tijuana is hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 28°C (77-82°F) but can occasionally climb above 30°C (86°F) during periods of warm easterly desert winds. A common summer phenomenon is "morning fog" rolling in from the ocean, cooling the city until the afternoon.

Winter and Rainy Season (December to March)

Winter is when most of the annual rainfall occurs, though the amount is relatively moderate. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (around 18°C to 20°C / 64-68°F), but nights can be cool, dropping to 7°C or 8°C (45-46°F). Sunny days are frequent even in the middle of winter.

Special Phenomena

One of the most recognized phenomena in the region is the "Santa Ana winds"—very hot and dry winds coming from the desert that can cause sudden and extreme temperature spikes, primarily in late summer and autumn.

Weather in Tijuana by Month

January

A relatively cool and rainy month. Temperatures of 18°C (64°F) during the day and 7°C (45°F) at night. Many days are sunny despite being a winter month.

February

Similar to January. Temperatures around 19°C (66°F) daytime. It is one of the wettest months of the year (though rain is not continuous).

March

Start of spring. Temperatures rise to 20°C (68°F) daytime. Precipitation starts to decrease and skies clear.

April

Very pleasant and clear. Daytime temperatures of 21°C (70°F) and fresh nights (11°C/52°F). Excellent time for city tours.

May

Temperatures climb to 23°C (73°F) daytime. Ocean morning clouds ("May Gray") often appear.

June

Start of the dry summer. 24°C (75°F) daytime average. Morning cloudiness is also common this month ("June Gloom"), clearing by noon.

July

Hot and sunny. Temperatures of 26°C (79°F) daytime and 17°C (63°F) at night. Almost no chance of rain.

August

The warmest month. Average of 28°C (82°F) daytime (with hotter days possible). Completely dry weather and blue skies.

September

Still very hot (27°C/81°F daytime). Toward the end of the month, hot desert winds may blow.

October

Pleasant and mild autumn. 25°C (77°F) daytime and 14°C (57°F) at night. Temperatures begin to drop and humidity is very low.

November

Dry and clear. Temperatures drop to 21°C (70°F) daytime, and nights become cooler (10°C/50°F).

December

Wintry and mild. 19°C (66°F) daytime and 7°C (45°F) at night. Start of the rainy season.