The Weather and Climate in Vanuatu
Vanuatu is the small beautiful country located in the South Pacific Ocean between Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Australia and Fiji, consisting of 82 islands (65 inhabited ones). The capital of Vanuatu is Port Vila. It is situated on the island Efate and is the largest city in the country. The climate in Vanuatu is subtropical, as it is the equatorial land.
From the point of temperature Vanuatu weather conditions remain rather comfortable most of the time, as the temperature is quite uniform throughout the year and the islands get rather much sunshine. However, there are two weather seasons in Vanuatu. It’s hot and humid between November and April, while the months from May to October are more dry and cool. The coolest month is August while the hottest one is February. The daily temperature usually varies between 20 °C (68 °F) to 32 °C (90 °F). The range of water temperature is between 22 °C (72 °F) and 28 °C (82 °F).
Vanuatu weather is notable for the generous annual rainfall. It is generally measured from 2300 to 4000 mm depending on the measurement location. Vanuatu, as mentioned above, stretches through a large number of islands, that’s why each island can have its own rainfall pattern. E.g. the south-eastern part of the archipelago is exposed to the rainfall in considerably greater extent, especially in the hot season. This period is deservedly called the ‘wet season’ as well – rainfall starts increasing by December and usually reaches its peak in March, with heavy rain lasting around a day sometimes. On the opposite, during the cool and dry season the weather in Vanuatu is less humid with August being the driest time. Though rain is not uncommon still in this time, it’s usually a sort of heavy shower that is over quickly.
Trade winds prevail in Vanuatu throughout any time of the year, especially in the southeast. However, during the hot and humid season the wind picture changes – this time is known as the tropical cyclone season. Normally a few cyclones pass the country territory during that season, some of them can be strong and furious. This also makes the months from May to October better for visiting Vanuatu.
Climatologists say that Vanuatu climate starts changing. It’s the coming problem for many tropical islands (well, actually for all of us on the Earth in certain extent).
If you are going to visit Vanuatu, then it’s worth to learn about the needed clothing and equipment – what to take with you and how to prepare for your holidays.