Dry, winter season

 Occasional surges of cooler air from continental North America, the leading edge of which is called a cold front is the main winter system affecting the Cayman Islands from late October through early April. These systems are the major producers of rainfall during the winter months although precipitation is not quite as long lasting or of the same amounts as with summertime systems. 

The stronger cold fronts tend to bring strong North to northwest winds and rough seas, especially along the Western and Northern Coasts of the Islands: Such fronts are locally called “Northwesters”. The forecasting of these fronts is of critical importance as they bring rough seas to coastal regions that are strongly linked to tourism, one of the major industries of the country. Spectacular wave action along the western coast and in the George Town Harbour of Grand Cayman is a side show associated with these cold air surges. Fifteen and twenty foot waves hammer the coastline leading to a halt in water-sports and diving. Vessels, which do not heed the weather forecast to move to safe harbour, are often damaged or destroyed by the very rough seas. The systems may also produce inclement weather in the form of heavy thunderstorms and gale force winds. After the passage of a strong cold front, temperatures can fall to the upper 60’s & low 70’s within 12 to 24 hours leading to pleasant days and nights. If you are used to an average temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit, like we are in the Caymans, such drops in temperature whilst welcome, can be quite cold.  The many heavy coats and sweaters that appear on the streets after the passage of a Northwester is a testimony to this.