Last updated: January 18, 2025
Cat Island, located in the Bahamas, enjoys a distinctive Aw climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. Characterized by a mild temperature range, the island's minimum temperature dips to 17°C (64°F) in January, while average yearly temperatures hover around a pleasant 26°C (79°F). Peak summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) in July, creating an inviting environment for visitors year-round. This tropical climate, with its warm temperatures and seasonal variations, offers a diverse setting for both leisure and exploration.
Temperature patterns in Cat Island, Bahamas exhibit a gradual warming trend throughout the year, with distinct seasonal variations. January marks the coolest month, beginning with a minimum of 17°C (64°F), followed by a progressive increase as the island transitions into spring. By April, temperatures begin to rise more notably, often reaching averages of 24°C (76°F). The warmest months, July and August, see average temperatures plateauing at 28°C (82°F), accompanied by maximums that peak at 30°C (86°F). As autumn arrives, temperatures begin to cool slightly, yet remain comfortably warm, with November averaging 26°C (79°F). This seasonal cycle of mild winters and warm summers creates an inviting climate that characterizes Cat Island year-round.
Arthur's Town experiences a comfortable climate with January temperatures dipping to a minimum of 17°C (64°F) and rising to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) in July. For a detailed overview of monthly temperatures, you can refer to monthly temperatures in Arthur's Town.
Precipitation in Cat Island, Bahamas follows a pronounced seasonal pattern, with the driest months occurring in the early part of the year. January begins with 57 mm (2.3 in) of rainfall spread over 10 days, followed by February and March, which see significantly lower totals of 35 mm (1.4 in) and 27 mm (1.1 in) respectively. As spring transitions into summer, the precipitation begins to increase, with May making a notable jump to 127 mm (5.0 in) over just 10 days, signaling the onset of the wet season.
Summer months are marked by heavier rainfall, peaking in September and October, when Cat Island experiences its highest averages of 130 mm (5.1 in) and 133 mm (5.2 in), respectively, occurring over 19 days. The consistent wet weather continues through November, with 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain. December backs down slightly with 59 mm (2.3 in), wrapping up the year with a total of 11 rainy days. This pattern highlights the island's distinct shift from dry to wet, showcasing a tropical climate that plays a vital role in its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
In Cat Island, Bahamas, sunshine duration showcases a striking seasonal progression that enhances the island's allure, particularly during the summer months. Starting the year with 221 hours of sunshine in January, the hours steadily increase as spring approaches, culminating in March and April, which boast 330 and 343 hours respectively. This upward trajectory continues into the early summer, peaking in July with an impressive 363 hours of sunshine. The consistency in sunlight contributes to the island's lush landscapes, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking vibrant outdoor experiences.
As summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours gradually decline, yet the island remains favorably bright compared to winter months. In August, the hours remain high at 351, before tapering off to 321 hours in September and 312 hours in October. November and December see a reduction in sunshine hours to 280 and 285, respectively, as the island shifts back towards the cooler season. Despite this decrease, Cat Island continues to enjoy a notable amount of sunshine throughout the year, ensuring that visitors can still savor its warm and inviting climate.
The UV Index in Cat Island, Bahamas, presents a notable pattern that reflects the island's tropical climate and the intensity of sun exposure throughout the year. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 7, categorized as high, with an advisable burn time of 25 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the UV Index rises sharply to 10, entering the very high exposure category and cutting the burn time to just 15 minutes. March and April see an even more pronounced jump, peaking at an extreme UV Index of 11 and 12 respectively, necessitating vigilant sun protection due to a burn time of only 10 minutes during these months.
From May to September, Cat Island continues to experience an extreme UV Index of 12, highlighting the critical need for sun safety measures as prolonged exposure can lead to serious skin damage. As summer gives way to autumn, the UV Index begins to decrease, dropping to 10 in October and then further to 8 in November, which still indicates very high exposure. December sees a return to a high UV Index of 6, suggesting that precautions remain essential, especially for outdoor activities. Understanding the UV Index variations is crucial for residents and visitors alike, ensuring they can enjoy the island's sun while minimizing health risks.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Cat Island, Bahamas reveals a captivating cycle that complements the island's tropical environment, varying from 10 hours in January to 13 hours in the summer months. As the year begins, residents and visitors enjoy 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases in February and March to 11 and 12 hours respectively. By May and June, daylight peaks at 13 hours, offering ample time for outdoor exploration and beach activities. This consistent increase toward the summer solstice reflects the natural progression toward longer days in the tropics.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight duration begins to decrease gradually, tapering back to 12 hours in August and September before dropping to 11 hours in October. By November, the trend continues with 10 hours of daylight reappearing in both November and December, marking a return to the shorter days of winter. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only influences daily activities but also enhances the overall ambiance of Cat Island, making it a paradise for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Arthur's Town, Bahamas experiences a warm tropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from a cool 17°C (64°F) in January to a high of 30°C (86°F) during the peak summer months of July and August. Precipitation is higher in the late spring and summer, peaking in September with 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while the driest month is March with only 27 mm (1.1 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to July, when residents can bask in over 330 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed information, visit Arthur's Town climate.
In conclusion, Cat Island, Bahamas, showcases a remarkable blend of climatic and environmental features that contribute to its appeal as a tropical paradise. With its distinct temperature ranges, ample sunshine, and notable UV exposure, the island provides a unique setting for outdoor adventures and relaxation throughout the year. The cyclical patterns of precipitation and daylight further enhance its charm, as visitors can plan accordingly to enjoy both the vibrant sunny days of summer and the milder winters. This interplay of climate factors not only shapes the island’s lush landscapes and biodiversity but also underscores the importance of sun safety and environmental awareness. Cat Island stands as an inviting destination for those seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Bahamas while embracing its natural elements.