Weather

Climate

St. Augustine has a semi-tropical climate with over three hundred days of sunshine a year. Summers (May through September) are typically hot, bright, and humid with afternoon thunderstorms common. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-90s F.

Spring (March through mid-May) and Autumn (October through late November) can be quite pleasant. with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s into the 80s F.

The winter months (December through March) are usually dry. Temperatures can be cooler than one would expect, genearlly ranging from the upper 30s through the 60s F, though sudden cold snaps can occur.

Always check the forecast when planning your visit!

 

Safety

Some types of severe weather may temporarily require us to close some or all of the park's operations.

High Heat Index
Summers in Florida can be dangerous, espcially for out-of-town visitors who are not used to the heat and humidity. The heat index inside the Castillo often exceeds 105°F and may limit some of our interpretive programs. Sunburn can occur quickly and can be quite severe. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, lightweight clothing, and reusable water bottles are all highly recommended when visiting in the summer.

Thunderstorms
When it rains in Florida, it usually pours! Our thunderstorms are beautiful, powerful and potentially dangerous. Typically short-lived, they can drop several inches of rain in a short period of time. The majority of Florida's thunderstorms come in the summer months, chiefly during the afternoon. Formed by the combination of humid air and hot temperatures, they create strong updrafts which form massive clouds filled with electrical and kinetic energy. Florida is often called the "Lightning Capital of the World" for good reason. When park staff hear thunder and see lightning, the Castillo's gundeck and ravelin will be closed for your safety.

Tropical Storms
June 1 through November 30 is hurricane season. Hurricanes and tropical storms can affect local weather conditions hundreds of miles from their center of rotation. Be sure to check the tropical weather forecast for the period you plan to visit.

A "Hurricane Watch" indicates the possibility that hurricane conditions could be experienced within 36 hours. A "Hurricane Warning" indicates that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less in a particular area. Park policy requires us to close the park when tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.