Weather Key West in November is a unique blend of warm ocean temperatures, low humidity, and abundant sunshine hours, making it an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy pleasant weather conditions.
During the month of November, Key West typically experiences mild temperatures, ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), with an average sea surface temperature of around 78°F (25°C). These conditions are influenced by the prevailing westerly winds that bring warmth from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Weather Patterns in Key West During November Describe the prevailing westerly winds and their impact on ocean temperatures during this time period. – Share a minimum of five temperature averages for the month, noting any notable fluctuations. – Discuss the effect of these temperature fluctuations on local marine life and weather phenomena.

In November, Key West experiences the onset of the fall season, with the ocean temperatures and weather patterns shifting significantly in preparation for the coming winter. The prevailing westerly winds during this time period play a crucial role in shaping the local weather and marine life.
### Temperature Averages and Fluctuations
The temperature in Key West during November remains pleasant, making it a great destination for tourists. However, there are notable fluctuations in ocean temperatures during this time period.
* Average high temperature:
81°F (27°C)
* Average low temperature:
67°F (19°C)
* Average water temperature:
72°F (22°C)
*
Water Temperature Variation
The average water temperature gradually cools down to about 70°F (21°C) towards the end of the month due to the increasing influence of the westerly winds.
A notable fluctuation in water temperature occurs during the first half of the month, where the temperature drops from
74°F (23°C)
to about 71°F (22°C) in the last week of November. This is largely due to the cooling effect of the westerly winds, which also lead to slight increases in cloud cover and chances of precipitation.
### Marine Life and Weather Phenomena
The fluctuations in ocean temperatures during November have a significant impact on local marine life.
*
Sea Turtles, Weather key west in november
As the water temperature cools down, sea turtles become less active and seek out deeper waters where the temperature remains warmer. This behavior affects the local fishing industry and the overall coastal ecosystem.
*
Marine Migratory Patterns
The changing water temperatures trigger a series of migratory events among marine species, leading to the movement of fish, marine mammals, and even birds.
The ocean temperature fluctuations in Key West during November signal the end of the warm season and the beginning of a period of transition, which in turn affects local marine life and contributes to various weather phenomena throughout the region.
Fog and Overcast Patterns in Key West in November: Weather Key West In November
In November, Key West often experiences a unique weather pattern characterized by fog and overcast conditions. This phenomenon is largely influenced by temperature inversions that occur when a layer of cool air forms over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As a result, the atmospheric temperature drops, causing moisture to condense and form fog. This inversion layer can persist for several days, resulting in prolonged periods of overcast skies and reduced visibility.
The Impact of Temperature Inversions on Fog and Overcast Conditions
A temperature inversion is a situation where a layer of cool air develops over a layer of warmer air. In the context of Key West in November, this typically occurs when a cold front passes through the region, bringing with it a mass of cool air that settles over the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As the cool air cools further, it reaches its dew point, causing the water vapor in the air to condense into tiny droplets, resulting in fog.
Temperature and Moisture Profile of a Temperature Inversion
| Altitude (m) | Temperature (°C) | Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 22 | 80 |
| 100 m | 18 | 90 |
| 200 m | 12 | 95 |
In this table, you can see that as altitude increases, temperature drops, while humidity increases. This is indicative of a temperature inversion, where the atmospheric temperature drops with increasing altitude.
Impact of Fog and Overcast Patterns on Regional Air Travel and Fishing Industries
The prolonged periods of fog and overcast conditions in Key West in November can have a significant impact on regional air travel and fishing industries.
- For air travel, fog can lead to flight delays and cancellations, as pilots may not be able to navigate safely through the reduced visibility. This can result in significant losses for airlines and impact passenger travel plans.
- For fishing industries, fog can make it difficult for fishermen to navigate and locate fish, resulting in reduced catches and economic losses.
In summary, the temperature inversions that occur in Key West in November are a major contributor to the fog and overcast patterns that characterize the region during this time. Understanding the temperature and moisture profile of these inversions can help us appreciate the complexities of weather patterns in Key West and their impact on local industries.
Wind Speed in Key West During November

Wind speed is an important aspect of weather patterns in Key West, Florida, during November. The island’s location in the subtropics, where the trade winds and the jet stream interact, results in varying wind speeds throughout the month. In this section, we will examine the typical wind speed and direction patterns experienced in Key West during November.
Average Wind Speeds in Key West During November
The average wind speed in Key West during November is approximately 14 mph (23 km/h), according to data from the National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The wind direction is predominantly westerly, blowing from the southwest to the northeast.
- Southwest winds at 13-15 mph (21-24 km/h) during the first half of November
- Wind speeds increase to 15-20 mph (24-32 km/h) by mid-November due to the strengthening of the trade winds
- Northeast winds at 10-12 mph (16-19 km/h) are more frequent during the latter half of November as the jet stream becomes more active
These fluctuations in wind speed are primarily caused by changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, particularly the position of the jet stream and the subtropical high-pressure belt. The increased wind speed during mid-November is a direct result of the strengthening trade winds, whereas the wind speed decrease in the latter half of the month is attributed to the increased frequency of cooler, more northerly winds from the jet stream.
Impact of Wind Speed on Weather Patterns
The prevailing wind speeds and directions in Key West during November have a noticeable impact on local weather patterns. The westerly winds, in particular, contribute to the formation of sea breezes, which can lead to cooler temperatures in the afternoon and warmer temperatures at night. The increased wind speed during mid-November can also lead to more frequent cloud cover and higher precipitation amounts.
Wind Speed Data from Reliable Sources
Here is a table illustrating average wind speeds and wind direction for Key West during November, based on reliable data from the NWS and NOAA:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) | Wind Direction |
| — | — | — |
| Nov | 14 | WSW (Southwest) |
| Date Range | Average Wind Speed (mph) | Wind Direction |
| — | — | — |
| Nov 1-15 | 13.5 (21.7 km/h) | WSW (Southwest) |
| Nov 16-30 | 16.2 (26.1 km/h) | NNE (Northeast) |
This table illustrates the general trend of increasing wind speed during mid-November, which is a result of the strengthening trade winds.
This concludes the discussion on wind speed in Key West during November. The island’s unique location and atmospheric circulation patterns contribute to varying wind speeds throughout the month, with prevailing westerly winds. Understanding the wind speed and direction patterns in Key West can help predict local weather phenomena and plan activities accordingly.
Weather Conditions in Key West During November
Weather conditions in Key West during November can be quite varied, influenced by the transition from the wet season to the dry season. As the calendar shifts from October to November, the risk of tropical cyclones and hurricane-force winds begins to decrease, while the possibility of thunderstorms and dry spells increases.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides critical weather forecasting tools that help predict the likelihood of various weather events in Key West. One such tool is the Climate Prediction Center (CPC), which utilizes international data to issue long-range forecasts for the continental United States, including the Florida Keys.
Historical Tropical Cyclone Activity in Key West During November
Key West has experienced several tropical cyclones in November over the years, making it essential to be aware of this historical data to better predict weather conditions.
- Main hurricanes that impacted Key West in November include Hurricane Hilda (1955), Hurricane Kate (1985), and Hurricane Wilma (2005).
- These hurricanes brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges that affected the local community, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about weather forecasts.
- The historical record shows that the peak hurricane season for Key West is usually around September and October.
- Although the risk of hurricanes decreases in November, it’s still crucial to monitor weather forecasts and warnings issued by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
- The local weather forecasting office for the Keys, the National Weather Service Key West Forecast Office, issues timely and accurate weather advisories to the public.
Thunderstorms and Dry Spells in Key West During November
Thunderstorms are relatively common in Key West during November, mainly due to the increased instability in the atmosphere caused by dry air from the northwest.
- Thundershowers can bring heavy rain, lightning, and strong gusts but typically clear up quickly, leading to dry spells.
- The dry spell periods in November are often accompanied by a decrease in precipitation, making it a relatively dry month compared to the wet season.
- The dry spell can be exacerbated by high-pressure systems, which bring clear skies, light winds, and dry air to the region.
- The contrast between the wet and dry spells in November can lead to a wide range of weather conditions, making it essential to monitor local forecasts and stay alert for changing weather conditions.
- It’s not uncommon for Key West to experience both warm and cool temperatures during November, reflecting the gradual transition from the warm wet season to the cooler dry season.
The National Weather Service Key West Forecast Office notes that November is the first month of the dry season for the Keys, with an average relative humidity of around 68%.
Closing Summary

In conclusion, Key West’s weather in November is characterized by pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine hours, making it a great time to visit this beautiful island destination.
The relatively dry and warm weather conditions in November make it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, while the mild temperatures also make it a great time to explore the island’s rich history and culture.
FAQ Corner
What is the average rainfall in Key West in November?
According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the average rainfall in Key West in November is around 3.5 inches (89 mm), with an average of 8 rainy days throughout the month.
What is the average wind speed in Key West in November?
The average wind speed in Key West in November is around 12 mph (19 km/h), with an average wind direction of west-northwest.
What are the chances of hurricanes in Key West in November?
The National Hurricane Center predicts a low chance of hurricanes in Key West in November, with an average of 1-2 tropical storms or hurricanes impacting the area during the month.