Gulf Coast Weather

Florida's Gulf Coast enjoys a sub-tropical climate, and the region, sitting along the Gulf of Mexico is one of the warmest places in the United States. The area is known for its year-round sunshine, and attracts many visitors from all over the world, especially from the UK and the northern states of the US (especially the retirees known as 'snowbirds' who flock south for the winter), who are looking to escape cold wet weather. The Gulf Coast has two seasons - a dry season during the winter months, and a wet season in the summer.

 

Winter is the most popular time to visit the Gulf Coast, when the days are warm and sunny, the humidity is at its lowest and there is limited rainfall. Average temperatures during the winter months range from 17C - 20C with up to 9 hours of sunshine each day. Spring and autumn sees temperatures of between 21C - 25C, still with plenty of sunshine, and cooler evenings. The Gulf Coast sees prominent easterly winds all year long, helping to temper the heat along the water and create ideal conditions for water sports and sailing. Water temperatures tend to be warmer along the southern coast, with the sea in St. Petersburg reaching 16C - 20C during the winter months, and temperatures in Naples reaching 18C - 21C.

 

Temperatures heat up in June, with average temperatures rising to 27C and the sun shining for 10 hours each day. Humidity levels are at their highest during the summer, often up to 100%, and water temperatures can reach 29C in July. Summers are the wettest, with daily rainfalls possible, but these are generally short but heavy, sometimes just lasting 20 minutes, and often in the form of thunderstorms. Tampa Bay is considered the Lightning Capital of the US, with visitors advised to stay inside during storms, and definitely off the local golf courses. Tropical storms hit the Gulf Coast on average every 2 years, and the hurricane season runs from June to October.