National Capital Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

The climate of the National Capital, Papua New Guinea, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af, indicative of a tropical rainforest climate. This region experiences a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) during the cooler month of September, with an average temperature hovering around 26°C (80°F) year-round. The warmest temperatures occur in December, reaching a maximum of 33°C (93°F), showcasing the distinct warm and humid conditions typical of this vibrant tropical locale. Such climatic characteristics not only influence the local biodiversity but also set the stage for diverse agricultural practices.

National Capital temperature by month

In the National Capital of Papua New Guinea, temperature patterns exhibit a relatively stable tropical climate characterized by minimal seasonal fluctuation. The year begins with higher temperatures in January and February, featuring a consistent minimum of 23°C (73-74°F) and daily peaks of 33°C (91°F). As the months progress into the cooler season, March sees a slight dip, the minimum reaching 23°C (74°F) while maximum temperatures gently decline to 32°C (89°F). By April and May, temperatures stabilize further, with minimums around 22°C (72°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (89°F). The transition into the coldest months of June and July brings even lower minimums, at 20°C (69°F) and 21°C (69°F), with maximums plateauing around 30°C (86°F). As the year progresses toward September, a noticeable cooling trend emerges, with minimums dropping to 19°C (66°F). The temperatures gradually rise again in October and November, with monthly averages returning to 27°C (80°F) before capping off in December with peaks once more reaching 33°C (93°F). This cycle signifies the region's tropical climate, marked by warmth and humidity, with only subtle variations across the seasons.

Monthly Temperatures in National Capital, Papua New Guinea

The chart illustrates National Capital's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec818180808078777778798081
Data source: National Capital temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Port Moresby experiences a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) in September, while the maximum reaches 33°C (93°F) in December, showcasing a warm climate throughout the year. For more detailed information, you can visit the monthly temperatures in Port Moresby here.

Precipitation Patterns in National Capital

The National Capital of Papua New Guinea experiences distinct precipitation patterns throughout the year, with notable rainfall during the first half of the year. January leads the month with substantial rainfall, receiving 276 mm (10.9 in) over 22 days, while February follows closely with 200 mm (7.9 in) across 21 days. March sees an increase, peaking at 307 mm (12.1 in), marking it as the wettest month. As the region transitions into April and May, rainfall decreases significantly, with April recording 215 mm (8.5 in) and May dropping to 95 mm (3.8 in), representing a shift toward a drier period.

During the latter half of the year, precipitation continues to decline, reaching a low of just 45 mm (1.8 in) in July over 8 days. August experiences a slight uptick to 58 mm (2.3 in), while September sees a modest increase to 81 mm (3.2 in). The rain levels gradually rise again in October and November, with 119 mm (4.7 in) and 130 mm (5.1 in), respectively. December culminates the year with 169 mm (6.7 in), ensuring that the annual precipitation remains consistent with the region's tropical climate, heralding the return of wetter conditions.

Monthly Average Precipitation in National Capital, Papua New Guinea

The average monthly precipitation in National Capital, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2762003072159563455881119130169
Data source: National Capital precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in National Capital

In the National Capital of Papua New Guinea, sunshine duration reflects a clear seasonal trend, with hours steadily increasing as the year progresses. January starts the year with 212 hours of sunshine, but as February approaches, the hours rise to 251, signaling a shift toward more daylight. This upward trajectory continues through the following months, peaking in May with 286 hours, thus marking the onset of the sunnier dry season. The sequence remains strong as June and July bring 271 and 284 hours, respectively, before the summer months take center stage, with August, September, and October all boasting impressive sunshine totals in the upper 279-289 hours range.

As the year draws to a close, the trend of increasing sunshine persists, culminating in December with an impressive 297 hours of sunlight. Notably, November is also remarkable, featuring 291 hours, which highlights it as another key month for sunshine. This steady rise from the earlier, cloudier months to the sun-drenched peak at year’s end reflects the region's tropical climate, illustrating how residents and visitors alike can look forward to abundant sunlight in the latter half of the year. The consistency and increase in sunshine duration emphasize the vibrant and warm atmosphere of the National Capital, making it an appealing destination for those seeking bright days.

Monthly Sunshine in National Capital, Papua New Guinea

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight National Capital receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec212h251h246h248h286h271h284h289h279h288h291h297h
Data source: National Capital sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

National Capital UV Index Trends

The UV Index in the National Capital of Papua New Guinea consistently indicates high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, necessitating caution for outdoor activities. Beginning with January, the UV Index starts at an extreme level of 15, suggesting that exposure should be limited to just 10 minutes to prevent sunburn. This extreme categorization persists across February and March, where the index reaches a peak of 16, before tapering slightly to 15 in April. Even as the year progresses into May, the UV Index remains notably high at 12, reinforcing the need for protective measures against harmful rays.

As the year transitions into the cooler months, there is a slight decrease in the UV Index; June records 10, categorized as very high, which allows for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, the UV Index rises again in July at 11, before returning to extreme levels in August with a 13. The remaining months, from September to December, maintain a consistent extreme index of 15 or 14, with a burn time remaining at 10 minutes. This year-round trend in high UV levels underscores the necessity for sun protection strategies, including sunscreen application, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak radiation hours.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for National Capital, Papua New Guinea

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in National Capital. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151616151210111315151415
Data source: National Capital UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in National Capital

In the National Capital of Papua New Guinea, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, with most months offering consistent light exposure. From January through March, the region enjoys a uniform 12 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and sunlight enjoyment. As the year progresses into April, however, daylight begins to decrease, dipping to 11 hours and maintaining this reduced duration through the following months of May, June, July, and August. This slight reduction signals the region's subtle seasonal variations, reflective of its tropical latitude.

As the year matures once more, daylight duration rebounds starting in September, returning to 12 hours until December. This restoration of daylight underscores the climatic stability that characterizes the National Capital, where residents can anticipate consistent light conditions, regardless of the specific month. Overall, the stability in daylight hours complements the region's warm and humid climate, contributing to its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, while allowing locals and visitors to engage fully in both daily and recreational pursuits year-round.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in National Capital, Papua New Guinea

This chart shows the total daylight hours National Capital receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec755h743h727h712h700h693h696h707h722h737h752h759h
Data source: National Capital daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of National Capital's Popular Destinations

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C (78°F) to 27°C (81°F), with peaks reaching up to 33°C (91°F) during the hottest months. Rainfall is most abundant between December and March, with January receiving the highest precipitation of 276 mm (10.9 in). Conversely, the driest months are June and July, with only about 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain. For more detailed information, you can explore Port Moresby climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the National Capital of Papua New Guinea epitomizes a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures, substantial precipitation, and consistent sunlight throughout the year. With the UV Index reflecting high levels of ultraviolet radiation, residents and visitors are encouraged to prioritize sun safety measures. The stable daylight duration enhances the region's appeal, supporting not only outdoor activities but also fostering diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices. Overall, this vibrant locale invites exploration and appreciation of its natural beauty, while also necessitating awareness of its climatic conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Discover the Climate of National Capital's Places

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