Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sonsorol, a remote island in Palau, experiences a tropical rainforest climate classified as Koppen-Geiger Af. Characterized by consistently warm temperatures, the island sees a minimum of 25°C (77°F) in March, an average of 27°C (82°F) throughout the year, and peaks at 30°C (86°F) in October. This persistent warmth contributes to a lush, vibrant ecosystem, making Sonsorol a unique destination for both biodiversity and climate enthusiasts.
Sonsorol, Palau, exhibits a remarkably stable temperature pattern throughout the year, emphasizing its tropical rainforest climate. Monthly temperatures demonstrate minimal variability, with minimums consistently hovering around 25°C (77°F) to 26°C (79°F) and averages maintaining a steady 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F). Slight increases in both minimum and average temperatures are observed from April through November, peaking at 30°C (86°F) in May and October. This relatively uniform climate, with maximum temperatures frequently reaching 29°C (85°F), contributes to the lush greenery and rich biodiversity characteristic of the island's ecosystem, while also indicating the absence of significant seasonal fluctuations typical in other regions.
Sonsorol Village experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) in March and a maximum of 30°C (86°F) in October. For more detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperatures in Sonsorol Village.
Sonsorol, Palau, experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, with total rainfall peaking during the warmer months. January sees a substantial 209 mm (8.2 in) of rainfall, while February records a drop to 153 mm (6.0 in). The rainy season steadily intensifies from March to July, culminating in May and July, where precipitation reaches 321 mm (12.6 in) and 319 mm (12.6 in), respectively. April and June also contribute to high rainfall totals, with 170 mm (6.7 in) and 305 mm (12.0 in), indicating that these months are crucial for sustaining the island's lush ecosystems.
In addition to high rainfall, the number of rainy days varies throughout the year, with the most notable increases occurring in the summer months. Sonsorol typically experiences 22 rainy days in January and March but escalates to 27 days in July. Despite a slight decline in rainfall in August and September, each month still receives substantial precipitation, 223 mm (8.8 in) and 212 mm (8.3 in), respectively. The island's annual precipitation trends underscore the tropical climate's influence on local biodiversity and the continuous cycle of moisture, reinforcing the essential relationship between rainfall and ecological health in Sonsorol.
Sonsorol, Palau, showcases a notable pattern in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a clear progression from shorter daylight hours in the early months to a peak during the summer. In January, the island enjoys 226 hours of sunshine, which steadily increases to 298 hours by March. This upward trend peaks in August, where the sunshine duration reaches an impressive 299 hours. The sustained warmth contributes to extended daytime sunshine during the summertime, allowing for optimal conditions for outdoor activities and the flourishing of the island's vibrant ecosystems.
As the year progresses into the latter months, sunshine hours remain relatively stable but slightly decrease, with October registering 282 hours and November at 280 hours. December experiences another dip, recording 277 hours of sunlight. Despite these declines, the overall annual sunshine trend remains positive, as months like April through August provide substantial daylight, crucial for maintaining not only the local biodiversity but also enhancing visitor experiences. This seasonal variation in sunshine underscores the distinct climatic characteristics of Sonsorol, showcasing a dynamic interplay between sun and rain that shapes the island's ecology and cultural life.
The UV Index in Sonsorol, Palau, consistently reflects extreme levels of solar radiation throughout the year, emphasizing the need for sun protection. From January to March, the UV Index peaks at 17, aligning with some of the highest exposure levels and a burn time of only 10 minutes. This extreme UV radiation is indicative of the island's equatorial location, where sunlight intensity is amplified. Even in the summer months of June and July, while the UV Index remains remarkably high at 13, the constant recommendation for sun safety is underscored, as all months maintain the same burn time of 10 minutes across extreme exposure categories.
As the year progresses into the latter months, there is a slight decline in the UV Index, with values ranging from 12 in December to 15 in October and November. However, the consistent classification of these levels as extreme means that caution remains essential year-round. This persistent risk of overexposure to UV radiation highlights the importance of protective measures for both residents and visitors to Sonsorol, making awareness and proactive sun safety practices vital for anyone enjoying the island's tropical climate.
UV Risk Categories
In Sonsorol, Palau, daylight duration demonstrates a remarkable consistency throughout the year, reflecting the island's tropical location near the equator. January and February each offer 11 hours of daylight, creating an environment of relatively short days. As spring approaches in March, daylight extends to 12 hours, and this duration remains stable through the summer months, including June, July, and August. This consistent exposure to ample daylight not only contributes to the island's vibrant biodiversity but also facilitates a wide range of outdoor activities, drawing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty.
As the year transitions into autumn and winter, daylight duration begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours in October and persisting in November and December. While the increase to 12 hours during the mid-year months enhances opportunities for exploration and recreation, the subsequent decrease does not significantly impact the tropical charm of Sonsorol. Overall, the relatively uniform daylight duration throughout the year highlights the island's unique climatic stability, making it a picturesque destination regardless of the season.
Sonsorol Village in Palau experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F), with highs peaking at 30°C (86°F) in May and October. The village sees substantial precipitation, particularly from May to July, with May being the wettest month at 321 mm (12.6 in). Despite the rain, sunshine hours are plentiful, averaging around 280 to 300 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Sonsorol Village climate.
In conclusion, Sonsorol, Palau, embodies the characteristics of a tropical paradise, marked by its stable climate, consistent daylight duration, and extreme UV exposure. With temperatures averaging around 27°C (82°F) year-round and significant rainfall creating a lush environment, the island supports rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems. The predictable patterns of sunshine and daylight further enhance the attractiveness of Sonsorol for both residents and visitors, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities while underscoring the necessity of sun protection due to extreme UV indices. Together, these climatic features not only define the island's natural beauty but also highlight the importance of sustainable practices and awareness in preserving its unique ecological balance.