Last updated: January 18, 2025
Carriacou and Petite Martinique, located in the Grenada archipelago, experience a tropical savanna climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification Aw. The islands enjoy a warm temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) typically recorded in February, an average of 27°C (80°F), and peaking at 30°C (85°F) in September. This inviting climate contributes to the islands' lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, making them a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike.
In Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Grenada, temperature patterns exhibit a mild tropical consistency with subtle seasonal variations. From January through March, temperatures hover around a minimum of 23-24°C (74-75°F) at night and an average of 26°C (78-79°F) during the day, indicating a relatively cooler period. As spring transitions into summer from April to June, temperatures gradually increase, with average highs reaching 28°C (82°F) and nighttime lows around 24-25°C (75-77°F). The warmest months, July through September, highlight peak summer, where average temperatures rise to 28-30°C (82-85°F), accompanied by a slight increase in humidity. As the year comes to a close, temperatures stabilize, returning to the milder averages seen earlier in the year, with December marking a gentle return to the cooler minimums of 24-25°C (76-77°F). Overall, the climate is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, ideal for both residents and visitors.
Hillsborough experiences a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) in February to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) in September. For more details on the monthly temperatures in Hillsborough, you can visit monthly temperatures in Hillsborough.
Carriacou and Petite Martinique experience a distinctive precipitation pattern throughout the year, reflecting a clear wet and dry season. The initial months of the year, from January to April, are characterized by moderate rainfall, with January recording 47 mm (1.8 in), decreasing to 28 mm (1.1 in) in April, and an average of around 9 to 13 rainy days per month. This drier phase is effectively punctuated by May, which sees a slight increase to 46 mm (1.8 in), signaling the onset of the wet season, which brings more frequent rainfall and elevated totals into the summer months.
From June to October, the islands typically experience their peak rainfall, starting with 104 mm (4.1 in) in June and escalating to a high of 180 mm (7.1 in) in October. This period sees a significant rise in precipitation days, with July and August averaging 24 to 25 rainy days per month. The wettest month, October, indicates the climax of the rainy season, followed by a gradual decrease in rainfall into November and December, where totals drop to 127 mm (5.0 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in), respectively. Overall, the climate of Carriacou and Petite Martinique is shaped by its marked wet season, which supports vibrant ecosystems while offering a unique experience for visitors.
In Carriacou and Petite Martinique, the sunshine duration reflects a delightful seasonal pattern, with an evident increase in sunshine hours as the year progresses from winter to summer. The year begins with a solid 268 hours of sunshine in January, gradually building to a peak of 345 hours in March. This trend indicates that the early months of the year are characterized by increasingly favorable weather, culminating in April and May, where the sunshine hours remain robust at 336 and 353 hours respectively. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, as visitors can expect bright, sunny days perfect for exploring the islands’ stunning landscapes.
As the seasons transition into the summer months, sunshine duration remains consistently high, with July and August each recording around 345 and 343 hours of sunshine. Though there is a slight dip in June with 323 hours, the difference is marginal, reaffirming the islands' reputation as a sun-soaked destination. Moving into the fall and winter months, sunshine hours remain well above the mid-point, with less dramatic fluctuations, dropping slightly to 316 hours in November and 328 hours in December. Overall, the climate offers a warm embrace of sunlight throughout the year, with the peak periods occurring in the spring and summer, making it a year-round haven for sun-seekers.
The UV Index in Carriacou and Petite Martinique reflects a consistently high risk of solar radiation, underscoring the importance of sun protection year-round. Starting from January, the UV Index begins at 11, categorized as extreme, requiring minimal exposure of just 10 minutes to risk skin burns. As the year progresses into February and March, the UV Index peaks at 12 and 14 respectively, indicating that these early months demand heightened awareness regarding sun safety. April and May maintain this elevated level, with persistent ratings of 14, emphasizing the critical need for protective measures amidst the vibrant Caribbean sun.
As summer approaches, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, with readings fluctuating between 13 and 14 until September. Even in October, a slight decline to 13 signals that sun protection is still essential as the season changes. By November, the UV Index decreases to 11, and in December, it drops further to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. Despite these seasonal fluctuations, the prevailing trend showcases a dominant risk of UV exposure throughout the year, necessitating consistent precautions to safeguard skin health under the Caribbean sun.
UV Risk Categories
In Carriacou and Petite Martinique, daylight duration presents a gentle yet consistent rhythm throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that enhance the islands' tropical charm. During the early months of January and February, daylight lasts for 11 hours each day, setting a serene backdrop for leisurely activities and exploration. As spring approaches in March, the daylight extends to 12 hours, a change that continues through the summer and early fall, providing ample time for sun-filled adventures and the enjoyment of the lush landscapes.
This consistent 12-hour daylight period stretches from March through September, creating an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. However, as the year transitions into autumn in October, daylight duration decreases back to 11 hours, a trend that continues through November and December. This gradual decline punctuates the shift toward the cooler months, signaling the natural ebb and flow of time in the islands. Overall, the stable daylight hours contribute to a vibrant lifestyle in Carriacou and Petite Martinique, enabling a multitude of outdoor experiences against a backdrop of breathtaking sunsets.
Hillsborough, Grenada, experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average daily temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (74°F) in February to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) in September. The wet season peaks between June and October, with July and August receiving the most rainfall (150 mm and 164 mm, respectively). Despite the precipitation, the area enjoys significant sunshine, reaching up to 353 hours in May. For more details, visit Hillsborough climate.
In conclusion, Carriacou and Petite Martinique's climate is characterized by a harmonious blend of warm temperatures, ample sunshine, and high UV exposure, which collectively define the islands as a tropical paradise year-round. The precipitation patterns, marked by a distinct wet season, complement the sunny days, enriching the lush landscapes that attract visitors from around the globe. With consistent daylight durations allowing for extended outdoor activities, these islands offer a vibrant environment where nature thrives and adventure awaits. However, the extreme UV Index throughout most of the year serves as a reminder for sun safety, ensuring that both residents and travelers can fully enjoy this beautiful Caribbean setting while protecting their health.