The island of Jamaica is known for its natural, tropical beauty. Warm, clear Caribbean waters with intriguing underwater reefs, a stunning north coast along with white sand beaches. The beautiful blue-green mountains that rise to 7,400 feet above sea level. Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean after Hispaniola and Cuba and is just about 600 miles south of Miami, Florida. Jamaica is about 4,244 square miles. The island is 146 miles long, and 51 miles at its widest point. The topography consists of three regions; the coastal plains, the central valleys and plateaus, and the eastern mountains. All the land in Jamaica has it used differently, and for its own purpose. 50% of the island is used for agriculture, 40% is woodland, and the remaining 10% is divided between mining and urban areas. The capital of Jamaica is Kingston; one of many popular tourist attractions around the island.

 

The climate is tropical and humid. Daily summer temperatures are around 88°F (31°C) and the winter temperatures only drop down by a little, to 75°F (24°C). Unlike Massachusetts, Jamaica does not typically receive snow because of its tropical climate. The main natural resources used are bauxite; a sedimentary rock mined in Jamaica and processed into aluminum, gypsum; a soft mineral used mainly as soil, and limestone; another sedimentary rock, used in construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. Jamaica’s vegetation is diverse, including rainforests, forests, savannas, and dry areas. The island is home to a variety of wildlife including many different species of birds. Jamaica is home to reptiles such as iguanas, anoles, geckos, boas and snakes. In the waters of Jamaica, there lie sea animals like bottlenose dolphins, stingrays, sea urchins, jellyfish and more. The natural hazards are mainly hurricanes and earthquakes which happen once every 4-5 years. The terrain of Jamaica consists of mountains with narrow coastal plains. Overall, Jamaica is an extraordinary island nation, with eye-catching scenery, and a fascinating story.