Last updated: January 18, 2025
Saint Andrew, Dominica, exhibits a tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af. Characterized by consistently warm temperatures, the region experiences a minimum of 22°C (71°F) in February and an average of 26°C (79°F) throughout the year. The hottest month is September, with temperatures peaking at a maximum of 28°C (83°F). This climate fosters a rich biodiversity, making Saint Andrew a unique destination for ecotourism and natural exploration.
In Saint Andrew, Dominica, temperature patterns reveal a consistent tropical climate throughout the year, characterized by mild variations. The coolest months, January and February, see minimum temperatures around 22°C (72°F), while March remains steady. As the season progresses into spring, April warms slightly, with minimums rising to 22-23°C (73-74°F) and average temperatures approaching 25°C (77°F). By late spring and into summer, temperatures peak, with May through September registering minimums of 23-25°C (74-77°F) and maxima reaching 28°C (83°F), marking this period as the warmest. As temperatures gradually decline in October through December, the climate remains comfortably warm with averages stabilizing around 25-27°C (78-81°F), showcasing a stable yet vibrant seasonal rhythm typical of tropical regions.
Precipitation in Saint Andrew, Dominica displays a distinct seasonal pattern, with a notable increase in rainfall during the summer months. January and February are relatively dry, each averaging 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 16 days of rain. As the year progresses into March, a slight uptick occurs, with 53 mm (2.1 in) recorded. However, the late spring to summer months see a substantial rise in precipitation, peaking in August with 139 mm (5.5 in) across 24 days, indicating a shift toward a wetter climate.
The fall months also contribute significantly to total rainfall, with October recording the highest monthly total of 152 mm (6.0 in), followed closely by November at 126 mm (4.9 in) and December at 81 mm (3.2 in). This pattern reveals that while winter months are marked by lower rainfall, the interval from June to October brings higher volumes and increased frequency of rain, creating a lush environment conducive to biodiversity and agriculture. The overall climate thus reflects a typical tropical pattern, making Saint Andrew an area of rich ecological significance.
Sunshine duration in Saint Andrew, Dominica reveals a marked seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter into summer. Beginning in January with 267 hours, the amount of sunshine gradually climbs, hitting 305 hours in February. This upward trajectory continues through the spring months, peaking in May at 357 hours, which indicates an abundance of bright, sunny days. The early summer months of June and July maintain this high level of sunshine, with 330 and 355 hours respectively, creating an ideal environment for outdoor activities and tourism.
However, as the year transitions into the late summer and autumn months, the sunshine hours begin to taper off slightly. August enjoys 351 hours, while September experiences a dip to 317 hours. The trend stabilizes with around 321 hours in October and 311 hours in November, before recovering slightly to 328 hours in December. This pattern underscores the importance of the spring and early summer as peak sunshine periods, while also highlighting a gradual decrease in light as the year progresses into the rainy season. Overall, the data suggests that residents and visitors can expect significantly more sunshine during the months of March to May, making it an optimal time for enjoying the natural beauty of this tropical paradise.
The UV Index in Saint Andrew, Dominica, presents significant variations throughout the year, with notably high values indicative of intense sun exposure. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As winter progresses into February, the index escalates to 11, entering the extreme exposure category, and continues to climb, peaking in April and May at 14, where sun exposure can be detrimental with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. This trend underscores the necessity for effective sun protection measures during these months, especially for outdoor activities.
As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index slightly decreases but remains considerably high. From June through September, the index hovers at 13 to 14, still within the extreme category, emphasizing the need for vigilance against UV radiation exposure. It would be wise for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, such as wearing sunblock and protective clothing. By November, the index drops to 10 and further declines to 9 in December; however, both values still represent a very high risk of sun damage. Collectively, these observations highlight the importance of understanding UV levels year-round in this tropical region, ensuring safety while enjoying the abundant sunshine.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Saint Andrew, Dominica shows a consistent pattern that reflects the region's tropical latitude. At the beginning of the year, January and February both enjoy 11 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. As the months progress into March, daylight increases modestly to 12 hours, remaining stable through April and May. This slight extension signals the approach of summer, allowing for longer evenings and more opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the island.
In June, daylight reaches its peak at 13 hours, representing the longest daylight duration of the year. However, this is followed by a gradual decrease as summer transitions into autumn, with July through September maintaining around 12 hours each day. As daylight diminishes, October sees a return to 11 hours, a duration that continues through November and December. This cyclical variation emphasizes the region's relatively stable daylight supply throughout the year, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the sun-drenched days that characterize life in this tropical enclave.
Calibishie, Dominica, enjoys a warm tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 28°C (83°F) throughout the year. The region experiences the highest rainfall during the summer months, particularly in July and August, with precipitation peaking at 139 mm (5.5 in) in August. Sunshine is abundant, with May receiving the most hours at 357, ensuring plenty of bright days. For more detailed information, visit Calibishie climate.
Marigot, Dominica enjoys a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to 27°C (81°F) during the warmer period from May to October. Precipitation is significant, peaking in August with 139 mm (5.5 in) and October with 152 mm (6.0 in), while sunshine hours are abundant, especially in March when it enjoys 347 hours of sun. The combination of warm temperatures and ample rainfall makes Marigot lush and vibrant, ideal for tropical vegetation. For more details, visit Marigot climate.
Wesley, Dominica enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 24°C (75°F) in February to 27°C (81°F) in September. Precipitation is heaviest from June to October, with October receiving the most rainfall at 152 mm (6.0 in). In contrast, January and February are the driest months, each recording 51 mm (2.0 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in May with 357 hours, although it remains high throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Wesley climate.
Woodford Hill, Dominica enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 24°C (75°F) in winter months to 27°C (81°F) in summer. Rainfall is highest from July to October, peaking at 152 mm (6.0 in) in October, while the driest months are from December to April. Sunshine hours are plentiful, with May receiving the most at 357 hours. For more details on the climate, visit Woodford Hill climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental conditions of Saint Andrew, Dominica, present a vibrant tropical setting characterized by warm temperatures, significant precipitation, high UV Index values, and stable daylight durations. The region's Af classification underscores its lush biodiversity and rich ecological systems, while the pronounced seasonal trends in sunshine duration and UV exposure highlight the importance of sun safety and awareness throughout the year. These climatic features not only enhance the area's appeal for tourism and outdoor activities but also necessitate a responsible approach to environmental stewardship and personal health. Understanding these dynamics will empower both residents and visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of Saint Andrew while safeguarding their well-being.