Last updated: January 18, 2025
The Eastern District of American Samoa is characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af. With a minimum temperature reaching 24°C (75°F) in February and an average yearly temperature of 27°C (81°F), the region experiences consistently warm weather. The maximum temperature peaks at 30°C (86°F), also occurring in February, typical of its humid, equatorial conditions. This climatic setting fosters lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems, significantly influencing the region's biodiversity and agricultural practices.
In the Eastern District of American Samoa, temperature patterns showcase a consistent warmth year-round, highlighting the region's tropical climate. Monthly minimum temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 25°C (77°F), while average temperatures remain stable around 27°C (81°F). Peak temperatures exhibit a slight seasonal fluctuation, with the highest maxima of 30°C (86°F) recorded in February, gradually leveling off to around 28°C (83°F) during the latter summer months of July and August. Throughout the year, the slight variations in temperature primarily suggest a stable climate with little differentiation between seasons, reflecting the area's humid conditions and contributing to its lush ecosystems.
In February, both Pago Pago and Fagatogo experience similar temperate conditions, with minimum temperatures reaching 24°C (76°F) and maximums rising to 30°C (86°F). For more detailed climate information, visit monthly temperatures in Pago Pago and monthly temperatures in Fagatogo.
The Eastern District of American Samoa experiences significant and variable precipitation throughout the year, indicative of its tropical rainforest climate. February is marked as the wettest month, receiving 466 mm (18.3 in) of rain over 25 days, while January also sees substantial rainfall at 300 mm (11.8 in) across 23 days. Following the peak in February, precipitation levels decline slightly in March to 194 mm (7.6 in), before gradually rising again in the later months of the year, particularly October and November, which receive 223 mm (8.8 in) and 266 mm (10.5 in) respectively.
The distribution of rainfall shows a distinct wet season, mainly concentrated in the early part of the year. January through April demonstrates relatively higher precipitation, contributing to the region's lush flora. By contrast, the months of June to August constitute the driest period, with rainfall dropping to 152 mm (6.0 in) in July. The number of rainy days also fluctuates, peaking at 29 days in December and remaining significant throughout the wet season. This pattern underscores the influence of seasonal weather systems, which play a crucial role in shaping the region's hydrological dynamics and ecological diversity.
In the Eastern District of American Samoa, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal trend, characterized by a gradual increase from the beginning of the year into the late spring and early summer months. Starting with 232 hours of sunshine in January, the region receives a moderate amount of sunlight, with February slightly declining to 225 hours. However, as the year progresses, March marks a significant transition, with a rise to 310 hours, indicating the onset of sunnier days. The trend continues through April and May, with sunshine hours remaining robust at 272 and 281 hours, respectively, suggesting a gradual warming and brightening leading into the summer months.
As the region approaches mid-year, sunshine hours peak in October at 308 hours, indicating a sustained period of ample sunlight following the brief dip in February. The late summer months, such as August and September, continue to maintain impressive sunlight durations—293 and 301 hours, respectively—before tapering off slightly towards the end of the year in November and December with 299 and 290 hours. This seasonal pattern not only highlights the tropical nature of the climate but also underlines the importance of sunlight for both the ecosystem and local agriculture, indicating that the Eastern District enjoys a predominantly sunny atmosphere ideal for growth and sustenance.
The UV Index in the Eastern District of American Samoa remains consistently high throughout the year, indicating a significant risk from sun exposure due to intense solar radiation. The first half of the year sees particularly extreme levels, with a UV Index of 16 in both January and February, with a rapid increase in burn risk, leading to a burn time of only 10 minutes. As the months progress into March, the UV Index slightly decreases to 15 but retains an extreme classification. This trend continues into April and May, where the UV Index gradually declines to 13 and 11, respectively, yet still maintains an extreme exposure category.
As summer approaches, the UV Index experiences a shift, dropping to 9 in June and July, classifying it as very high with a burn time of 15 minutes, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure. However, the intensity picks up again in late summer, with August registering 12 and September rising to 14, both classified as extreme. Notably, October through December sustain UV Index values at 15 again, reinforcing the need for protective measures against sun exposure. Overall, individuals in this region are advised to take precautions year-round, particularly in the first half of the year and during late summer, to mitigate the risks associated with high UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
In the Eastern District of American Samoa, daylight duration remains fairly consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial position. From January through March, residents enjoy approximately 12 hours of daylight daily, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and sunlight exposure. As the year progresses into April, however, daylight hours begin to decline slightly, averaging 11 hours from April to August. This slight reduction suggests a transition to the region's winter months, where shorter days are complemented by the warm tropical climate.
Interestingly, the daylight duration rebounds in the fall months, with daylight returning to 12 hours in September and sustaining this amount through October, November, and December. This consistency feels particularly pronounced due to the minimal variation in daylight hours, ensuring that the people and ecosystems of the Eastern District are regularly bathed in sunlight. The stable daylight duration not only supports daily life but also enhances the region's biodiversity, playing a crucial role in the growth patterns of local flora and fauna.
Fagatogo, American Samoa enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs around 27-29°C (81-85°F) and lows ranging from 24-25°C (76-77°F). The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in February, which sees about 464 mm (18.3 in), while the drier months like August have around 128 mm (5.1 in). Sunshine hours vary, peaking in March with 310 hours and remaining plentiful throughout the year. Overall, Fagatogo’s climate is marked by warmth and humidity, making it a lush, vibrant environment. For more details, visit Fagatogo climate.
Pago Pago, American Samoa experiences a tropical maritime climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages around 27°C (81°F) and maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F) in February. Rainfall varies significantly, with February being the wettest month, receiving 464 mm (18.3 in), while August is the driest at 128 mm (5.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in March and October, with over 300 hours of sunlight. Despite its tropical downpours, the pleasant temperatures and frequent sun make it an appealing destination. For more detailed information, visit Pago Pago climate.
In conclusion, the Eastern District of American Samoa embodies a unique climate characterized by its warm temperatures, significant precipitation, high UV Index, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. These environmental factors play a vital role in shaping the region's lush ecosystems and agricultural productivity. With temperatures consistently hovering around 27°C (81°F) and abundant rainfall contributing to its rich biodiversity, the area exemplifies the beauty of a tropical rainforest climate. Seasonal variations in sunshine, UV exposure, and daylight hours further emphasize the need for awareness and protective measures among residents and visitors alike, ensuring they can fully enjoy the vibrant natural landscape while safeguarding their health against the elements.