Last updated: January 18, 2025
Saint David, Dominica, embodies a tropical rainforest climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af, characterized by consistently high temperatures and significant humidity. The region experiences a minimum temperature of approximately 22°C (71°F) in February, providing a mild reprieve during the cooler months. With an average annual temperature around 26°C (78°F), conditions remain warm year-round. The peak warmth occurs in September, where maximum temperatures reach up to 28°C (83°F), highlighting the region's tropical nature. This climate profile not only supports a rich biodiversity but also plays a crucial role in shaping the local ecosystem and lifestyle.
In Saint David, Dominica, the temperature patterns exhibit a warm and consistent tropical climate throughout the year. The coldest months, January through March, feature minimum temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F) and maximums near 26°C (79°F), creating a comfortable environment. As spring arrives in April and May, temperatures gradually increase, with minimal lows rising to 23°C (74°F) and highs reaching 27°C (81°F). The onset of summer in June through August brings the warmest conditions, with minimums stabilizing at 24°C (76°F) and maximums peaking at 28°C (83°F). A slight cooling trend follows in the fall months of September and October, where temperatures remain in the range of 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (83°F), before transitioning back to the milder conditions of winter by December, thus establishing a rhythmic cycle of warmth and slight seasonal variations in temperature.
In both Rosalie and Castle Bruce, the climate features a consistent temperature range, with minimums of 22°C (71°F) in February and maximums of 28°C (83°F) in September. For a detailed look at Rosalie's monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Rosalie, and for Castle Bruce, check out monthly temperatures in Castle Bruce.
In Saint David, Dominica, precipitation displays distinct seasonal patterns, with a notable increase during the summer months. The year typically starts with a relatively dry period, as January through April experiences moderate rainfall, averaging around 50 to 55 mm (2.0 to 2.2 in) per month. This trend shifts in May, where the rainfall begins to increase, reaching 59 mm (2.3 in), which heralds the onset of the wetter season.
As summer arrives in June, precipitation peaks significantly, with July and August recording the highest rainfall levels of the year at 120 mm (4.7 in) and 145 mm (5.7 in), respectively. Following this peak, September and October maintain elevated precipitation levels, with 138 mm (5.4 in) and 159 mm (6.3 in), before gradually tapering off in November and December, where rainfall drops to 130 mm (5.1 in) and 84 mm (3.3 in) respectively. The number of rainy days also reflects this pattern, peaking at 24 rainy days in both July and August, thus characterizing the region as having a pronounced wet season that influences the local climate and ecosystem.
In Saint David, Dominica, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, particularly evident as the year unfolds. Starting from January, where the island enjoys 267 hours of sunshine, the duration gradually increases through the early months, peaking in March at an impressive 347 hours. April and May follow suit, maintaining high levels of sunshine at 339 hours and 356 hours, respectively. This rise signifies the transition into a sunnier spell leading up to the peak summer months, where residents and visitors alike can take full advantage of the ample daylight.
As summer progresses, sunshine hours remain robust, with 354 hours in July and 349 hours in August, indicating a continuing abundance of sunlight. Although there is a slight decline in hours during the subsequent months, September still boasts 317 hours, followed by a steadier range of around 311 to 328 hours through October to December. This overall pattern emphasizes not only the bountiful sunshine typical of the Caribbean tropics but also highlights the subtle seasonal variations that define the experience in Saint David. The peak months of March through May offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities, while the consistency of sunshine throughout the year ensures an inviting atmosphere for those seeking warmth and brightness.
In Saint David, Dominica, the UV Index reveals significant variability throughout the year, highlighting the necessity for sun protection measures, particularly during the peak months. The year begins with a UV Index of 10 in January, categorized as "very high," indicating a relatively strong potential for skin damage within just 15 minutes of exposure. However, as the months progress into February and March, the index escalates sharply to 11 and 13, respectively, both categorized as "extreme," which reduces the safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. This extreme UV radiation continues through April and May, staying at 14, underlining the need for heightened awareness of sun safety during these months.
The latter half of the year maintains elevated levels of UV radiation, with values consistently at 13 and 14 from June through August, emphasizing the ongoing risk of sunburn in the tropical conditions. As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index then begins to decline slightly, with October recording a level of 12, followed by a drop to 10 in November and 9 in December. Despite this reduction, the classification of "very high" UV levels persists in late fall and early winter, highlighting the perpetual need for protective measures against solar exposure year-round in Saint David.
UV Risk Categories
In Saint David, Dominica, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, reflecting the island's tropical latitude. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, allowing for plenty of daytime activities in the cooler winter months. As March approaches, daylight begins to increase, reaching 12 hours in March, April, and May. This steady ascent signals the transition to warmer conditions and longer days, enhancing opportunities for outdoor enjoyment as spring unfolds.
By June, daylight extends to 13 hours, marking the peak of sunlight during the summer months, which encourages vibrant ecological activity and tourism. The daylight duration then levels off at 12 hours from July through September, providing consistent light as residents and visitors explore the lush landscapes. As the year rounds out, daylight gradually decreases, returning to 11 hours by October and remaining steady through November and December. This rhythmic fluctuation in daylight underscores the appealing, sunny climate of Saint David, making it an attractive destination for those seeking warmth and natural beauty year-round.
Castle Bruce, Dominica enjoys a tropical climate with consistent warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in February to 27°C (81°F) in September, with maximums peaking at 28°C (82°F) during the summer months. Rainfall varies significantly, with the wettest months being July and October, receiving up to 152 mm (6.0 in) of precipitation. Despite the rain, the area experiences abundant sunshine, particularly in May, with up to 357 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Castle Bruce climate.
Rosalie, Dominica experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 24°C (75°F) and 27°C (81°F). January to March sees mild conditions, while July through October tends to be the wettest months, recording between 128 mm (5.0 in) and 167 mm (6.6 in) of rainfall. The region enjoys a significant number of sunshine hours, particularly in May with 356 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Rosalie climate.
In conclusion, Saint David, Dominica, showcases a compelling tropical climate characterized by its stable temperature, consistent precipitation patterns, abundant sunshine, high UV Index, and fairly constant daylight duration throughout the year. With warm temperatures averaging around 26°C (78°F), coupled with elevated sunshine hours, the region is well-suited for outdoor activities and tourism. However, the significant UV Index during peak months highlights the importance of sun safety practices to protect against potential skin damage. Overall, the climatic features of Saint David not only contribute to its rich biodiversity but also create an inviting environment for both residents and visitors seeking to experience the vibrant beauty of this Caribbean paradise.