Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of the Northern Mariana Islands is characterized by a warm tropical atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 24°C (76°F) in February to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) in August in Saipan. Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with the driest month being March, receiving approximately 41 mm (1.6 in), while August experiences peak rainfall, reaching 411 mm (16.2 in) in Tinian. Humidity levels remain high, averaging a low of 80% in August and peaking at 84% in May in Tinian, contributing to the islands' lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
The Northern Mariana Islands are characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af. This means that both Saipan and Tinian experience warm temperatures year-round and significant rainfall, fostering lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems. Visitors can expect high humidity and minimal temperature variation, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities and exploration of the islands' natural beauty.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Af | Tropical rainforest climate with no dry season and high temperatures year-round. |
The Northern Mariana Islands enjoy a consistently warm tropical climate throughout the year, making it an enticing destination for sun-seekers. From January to February, temperatures hover around a comfortable 24°C (76°F) minimum to 28°C (83-84°F) maximum, particularly in Saipan and Tinian. As spring blooms in March and April, temperatures gradually increase, with Saipan recording a peak of 29°C (84°F) in April. The warmth intensifies through the summer months, reaching highs of 30°C (86°F) in June through September, while minimum temperatures shift to a mild 25°C (77°F). Notably, October through December sees a slight cooling trend, with minimums around 26°C (78°F) and maximums ranging from 29°C (85°F) to 30°C (86°F), yet the tropical allure remains undiminished. Overall, the islands showcase a delightful semblance of warmth year-round, punctuated by minor fluctuations that maintain their charm as a year-round paradise.
In the Northern Mariana Islands, precipitation patterns reveal a striking contrast between the drier and wetter months. March typically sees the least rainfall, with only 41 mm (1.6 in) recorded in Saipan and a mere 13 rainy days in Tinian. As the seasons shift, August emerges as a peak wet month, characterized by a dramatic increase in precipitation, reaching up to 411 mm (16.2 in) in Tinian and 29 days of rain in July. This trend underscores a clear seasonal rhythm, highlighting the islands' susceptibility to substantial rainfall during the summer months, which sharply contrasts with the relatively dry early months of the year.
In the Northern Mariana Islands, humidity levels display a notable range, with Tinian recording a minimum of 80% in August and peaking at 84% in May. This trend suggests a slight increase in humidity as the year progresses towards the summer months, potentially impacting comfort levels for both residents and visitors. The consistently high humidity underscores Tinian's tropical climate, where warm air meets the lush landscapes, emphasizing its allure as a beautiful, if sometimes muggy, destination.
The UV Index in the Northern Mariana Islands, particularly in April, showcases a striking trend with an average daily maximum of 15 in both cases observed in Tinian. This consistently high UVI indicates an increasingly intense solar exposure during this time of year, urging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions against harmful UV radiation. Such elevated levels highlight the importance of sun safety measures, as prolonged exposure could pose significant health risks.
UV Risk Categories
The sunshine duration in the Northern Mariana Islands reveals interesting seasonal trends, particularly noticeable in Tinian. In January, residents can expect 230 hours of sunlight, providing a bright start to the year. As the months progress, this figure sees a significant increase, with sunshine peaking at 339 hours in May. This substantial rise reflects the transition into the dry season, offering longer days perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the islands' natural beauty. Such a shift underscores the appealing climate of Tinian, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the sun-soaked months ahead.
The likelihood of sunny weather in the Northern Mariana Islands reveals a striking seasonal trend, with a significant contrast between October and March. In October, regions like Tinian experience only an 11% chance of sunny days, suggesting that this month is often marked by cloudier skies. Conversely, the picture brightens considerably in March, especially in Saipan, where the likelihood of sunny weather jumps to an impressive 77%. This shift indicates a definitive seasonal pattern that invites sun-seekers to plan their visits during the early spring months for optimal sunshine.
Daylight hours in Saipan exhibit a notable variation throughout the year, reflecting the tropical climate of the Northern Mariana Islands. In December, residents and visitors can enjoy approximately 11 hours of sunlight, providing a cozy atmosphere as the year winds down. In contrast, June brings a more vibrant experience with about 13 hours of daylight, allowing for longer days packed with outdoor activities and exploration. This increase in daylight highlights the shift towards a sunnier, more energetic summer, making Saipan an appealing destination for those seeking to bask in the sun during the warmer months.
Saipan, located in the Northern Mariana Islands, boasts a tropical climate that delights throughout the year. With average temperatures ranging from a mild 27°C (81°F) in winter to a warm 30°C (86°F) in summer, visitors can enjoy pleasant beach days nearly all year long. However, be prepared for the rainiest months between July and October, when precipitation can soar up to 409 mm (16.1 in). The humidity remains relatively high, hovering around 80%, contributing to the lush landscapes that characterize this beautiful island. Discover more about the unique features of the Saipan climate that make it a tropical paradise.
Tinian, in the Northern Mariana Islands, boasts a tropical climate with temperatures that hover pleasantly between 24°C (76°F) and 30°C (86°F) throughout the year. High humidity levels, averaging around 83%, provide a lush backdrop for the island's stunning landscapes. While rainfall peaks during the summer months, especially in August and September, the island remains a warm and inviting destination for visitors. For those seeking to escape the chill of winter, Tinian’s mild temperatures and vibrant greenery make it a perfect retreat. Discover more about the island’s weather by visiting Tinian climate.
The climate of the Northern Mariana Islands features a warm tropical pattern, with temperatures consistently ranging from a mild 24°C (76°F) in February to a peak of 30°C (86°F) in August in Saipan. As the year progresses, precipitation levels tell a different story; while March sees a relatively low rainfall of 41 mm (1.6 in) in Saipan, August can bring staggering amounts, peaking at 411 mm (16.2 in) in Tinian. Coupled with high humidity—averaging around 80% in August and 84% in May in Tinian—these conditions create a distinctly tropical atmosphere. Overall, the islands' climate underscores a dramatic seasonal contrast, making the summer months particularly humid and rainy, offering both challenges and lush beauty for residents and visitors alike.