Honiara Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Honiara, the vibrant capital of the Solomon Islands, is characterized by its tropical rainforest climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification (Af). The city experiences a minimum temperature of approximately 22°C (72°F) in August, while the average yearly temperature hovers around 25°C (77°F). The warmest month, January, sees maximum temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F), creating a warm and humid environment year-round. This climate supports lush vegetation and rich biodiversity, making Honiara a unique destination in the Pacific region.

Honiara temperature by month

In Honiara, Solomon Islands, temperature patterns exhibit subtle consistency throughout the year, characterized by warm tropical conditions. January and February are the warmest months, with minimum temperatures around 23°C (74°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). As the year progresses into the cooler months, average temperatures stabilize around 25°C (77°F), while minimum temperatures dip slightly to 22°C (72°F) in August and September. Interestingly, maximums remain relatively stable at 28°C (83°F) between March and November, only slightly varying in December and January. This creates a climate that is both consistently warm and conducive to rich biodiversity, making Honiara a true tropical haven year-round.

Monthly Temperatures in Honiara, Solomon Islands

The chart illustrates Honiara'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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec787777777777777777777777
Data source: Honiara 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.

Honiara experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in August to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in January. This significant temperature variation showcases the warm and inviting conditions prevalent throughout the year. For more detailed information on the city's climate, you can visit monthly temperatures in Honiara.

Precipitation Patterns in Honiara

Honiara, Solomon Islands, experiences a distinct precipitation pattern, predominantly influenced by its tropical climate. The wet season peaks between January and April, with January's rainfall reaching a robust 352 mm (13.9 in) and February experiencing even higher levels at 422 mm (16.6 in). This deluge continues into March, yielding 420 mm (16.5 in), before tapering to 376 mm (14.8 in) in April. During this period, the number of rainy days also rises, reaching 29 days in both March and April, underscoring the city's lush and verdant landscape.

As the calendar moves toward mid-year, Honiara sees a notable decrease in both rainfall and rainy days. From May to August, precipitation drops significantly, with June recording the least amount at 212 mm (8.4 in), accompanied by 27 rainy days. Despite this reduction, the latter part of the year, particularly November and December, sees a resurgence in precipitation, with December peaking at 443 mm (17.4 in), and the number of rainy days increasing to 30. Overall, Honiara's precipitation pattern contributes to its rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems throughout the year.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Honiara, Solomon Islands

The average monthly precipitation in Honiara, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec352422420376278212267232318301377443
Data source: Honiara precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Honiara

In Honiara, Solomon Islands, sunshine duration showcases an intriguing seasonal pattern that aligns closely with the tropical climate. January experiences 218 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing as the year progresses. February sees a slight dip to 203 hours, but by March, the sunshine hours rebound, peaking at 253 hours. The trend continues into the later months, with sunshine duration reaching its zenith in October at 279 hours. This rise indicates a seasonal transition from the wet season, where cloud cover may limit sunlight, to the drier months that emphasize clearer skies and increased daylight.

As Honiara approaches the latter part of the year, the sunshine hours remain relatively high, with November and December providing 264 hours and 250 hours of sunshine, respectively. Notably, the months of May through October represent the sunniest period, featuring an interesting consistency with minimal fluctuations in sunshine hours. This steady accumulation of sunlight not only enhances the vibrant landscapes of Honiara but also offers an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the beauty of its tropical environment.

Monthly Sunshine in Honiara, Solomon Islands

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Honiara receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec218h203h253h231h271h257h259h266h261h279h264h250h
Data source: Honiara sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Honiara UV Index Trends

In Honiara, Solomon Islands, the UV Index reveals significant variability throughout the year, with consistently high levels that necessitate careful sun protection. Notably, the UV Index reaches its peak at 16 from January to March, categorized as extreme and indicating that unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. April sees a slight decrease to a UV Index of 15, but the risk remains extremely high. As the months progress, the extent of UV exposure begins to decline, with May recording a UV Index of 12, still classified as extreme, but indicating slightly reduced risk.

Entering the mid-year, the UV Index remains formidable, with June seeing a rating of 10 in the very high category, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, as autumn approaches, sunlight intensity shifts, maintaining an extreme exposure risk with October and November both reflecting a UV Index of 15. Throughout this period, unprotected exposure to the sun can be severely damaging, emphasizing the importance of protective measures, such as sunscreen and appropriate clothing, to safeguard against the harmful effects of UV radiation in this tropical paradise.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Honiara, Solomon Islands

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Honiara. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161616151210121415151515
Data source: Honiara 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 Honiara

In Honiara, Solomon Islands, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial location. From January to March, residents and visitors enjoy 12 hours of daylight each day, creating an ideal environment for outdoor activities and exploration. However, as the calendar shifts to April through August, daylight diminishes slightly to 11 hours per day. This subtle reduction coincides with the transition into the cooler season, yet it does not significantly affect the region's vibrant tropical lifestyle.

As the year progresses toward September through December, daylight duration sees a resurgence, returning to 12 hours per day. This reestablishment of longer daylight aligns with the warmer months, offering ample time for sunlit adventures. The consistent patterns of daylight duration in Honiara contribute to a dynamic and enjoyable climate, promoting both relaxation and engagement with the lush beauty of the Solomon Islands year-round.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Honiara, Solomon Islands

This chart shows the total daylight hours Honiara receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec755h743h727h712h700h694h697h707h722h737h751h759h
Data source: Honiara daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Honiara's Popular Destinations

Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands, experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 25°C (78°F). Rainfall is significant, peaking in February with 422 mm (16.6 in), while June typically receives the least precipitation at 212 mm (8.4 in). The city enjoys considerable sunshine, with May having the highest average of 271 hours. Temperature highs generally range between 28°C (83°F) and 29°C (84°F) across most months. For more details, visit Honiara climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honiara, Solomon Islands, presents a captivating tropical climate characterized by consistent warmth, significant rainfall, high UV exposure, and stable daylight duration. The temperatures maintain a relatively narrow range throughout the year, while precipitation patterns highlight distinct wet and dry seasons that support the region's rich biodiversity. With extreme UV Index levels and considerable sunshine hours, outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to prioritize sun safety. The overall climate and environmental conditions not only enhance the island's natural beauty but also create an inviting atmosphere for tourists and residents alike, fostering a unique lifestyle that thrives in harmony with the stunning Pacific landscape.

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