Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, August 18, 2026 – Puerto Vallarta began Tuesday under mostly cloudy skies. At 7:05 a.m. local time, the temperature was 26°C (78°F), with humidity at 93% and an apparent temperature of 31°C (87°F), according to current observations for the city.
The temperature is forecast to reach 34°C (93°F) before falling to about 25°C (77°F) overnight. The city forecast places the chance of rain at 55%, with a thunderstorm possible during the afternoon and another chance during the evening.
Conditions can vary across Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay, especially when storms form over the mountains or along the coast.
Rain Timing and Flood Risk
The morning should offer the most reliable dry period. Hourly guidance places the main thunderstorm risk between early and late afternoon, although the timing may shift.
The federal weather outlook places western Jalisco under a regional forecast of 50 to 75 millimeters (2 to 3 inches) of rain between 8:00 a.m. Tuesday and 8:00 a.m. Wednesday. That total covers a broad area and does not mean every Puerto Vallarta neighborhood will receive that amount.
Where heavier downpours develop, lightning, reduced visibility and temporary flooding are possible. Drivers should use caution on low-lying streets and avoid entering water when its depth cannot be determined.
Heat, Wind and Coastal Conditions
Humidity will remain the main comfort issue. Around midday and early afternoon, temperatures of 32°C to 34°C (90°F to 93°F) could feel closer to 37°C to 39°C (99°F to 102°F).
City winds are expected to remain modest, generally near 10 km/h (6 mph), with gusts around 21 km/h (13 mph). Stronger, short-lived gusts may occur near thunderstorms.
The federal forecast also calls for long-period swell of 1.5 to 2.5 meters (5 to 8 feet) along the Jalisco coast. Conditions inside Banderas Bay may be lower, but swimmers should follow the flag posted at each beach. Boat tours and other marine activities remain subject to local port and crew decisions.
Best Hours for Outdoor Plans
Morning is the better window for errands, exercise and outdoor work. Heat will build quickly despite the cloud cover, making water, shade and breaks important by late morning.
Carry rain protection after lunch and reconsider exposed beach or water activities if thunder is heard. Check updated radar, beach flags and official notices before afternoon or evening plans, as storm timing and coastal conditions can change.
