Last updated: July 31, 2025
The climate of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is characterized by its subpolar oceanic conditions, featuring a maximum average temperature of 9°C (48°F) in February and a minimum of -15°C (6°F) in July. With an annual precipitation total of 1536 mm (60.5 in), the islands experience a relatively high number of rain days across the year, peaking in March with 22 days and tapering slightly through the summer months. The humidity levels are consistently high, averaging 92% in January and dropping to about 83% in July. This unique climatic balance supports a diverse ecosystem, making the region both a fascinating study in weather patterns and an essential habitat for numerous wildlife species.
The climate of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is predominantly classified as ET (tundra climate) according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. This unique environment features cool temperatures year-round, with an average high rarely exceeding 10°C (50°F), even in summer. The strong, persistent winds and frequent precipitation contribute to the dramatic and rugged landscapes, shaping both the flora and fauna that thrive in this remote region. Visitors to these islands will experience a stark beauty, characterized by snow-capped peaks and shimmering glaciers, all under the watchful gaze of towering seabirds and playful seals.
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The climate of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands exhibits striking seasonal variation, characterized by cold temperatures that gradually drop as the year progresses. January and February see the mildest weather, with average temperatures lingering around 2°C (36-37°F) and reaching a maximum of 8-9°C (46-48°F). However, as March approaches, a noticeable decline in temperature begins, culminating in the peak of winter during July, where averages plummet to -4°C (25°F) and minimums can dip as low as -15°C (6°F). Following this chill, temperatures begin to rise again in August and September, yet remain quite low, reflecting a harsh winter climate. By November and December, a slight warming trend emerges, but even then, highs hover around only 5-6°C (41-44°F). This cool, rugged landscape, with its sharp temperature shifts, shapes the unique biodiversity and stark beauty of this remote region.
In South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, precipitation patterns reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm. The annual cycle is marked by a notable peak in August, when the average rainfall reaches 159 mm (6.2 in) over 22 days. Following this high, March and April also contribute substantial rainfall, with averages of 142 mm (5.6 in) and 143 mm (5.6 in), respectively, suggesting a wetter spell in early spring. As the year progresses towards late autumn, November and December see a decrease in both total rainfall and rainy days, with 106 mm (4.2 in) and 122 mm (4.8 in) falling over 20 and 21 days. Throughout the year, precipitation is generally consistent, hovering between 106 mm and 159 mm, with rainfall days typically ranging from 18 to 23. This moderate climate contributes to the unique ecosystems of this remote region, shaped by its dynamic weather patterns.
The South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands experience consistently high humidity levels throughout the year, typically hovering around 90% in the summer months of January and February. As the seasons shift into autumn and winter, there’s a slight dip, with humidity fluctuating between 83% and 87% from July to September. However, as winter gives way to spring, the humidity rises again, peaking at 92% in January and settling back to 90% in December. Overall, this region maintains a notably humid climate, highlighting its status as a remote and lush haven in the southern Atlantic.
The UV Index in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands showcases striking seasonal trends, characterized by intense fluctuations throughout the year. January and November stand out with an extreme UV Index of 11 and 16, respectively, leading to a quick burn time of just 10 minutes—a stark reminder of the sun's potency in these months. As summer transitions to autumn, the index drops to a high of 9 in February before settling into the moderate exposure levels seen in the middle months, such as April's 4 or August's 3, where a burn time can extend to 30 minutes. By mid-year, from May to July, the UV Index plummets to low, offering a reprieve with 45-minute burn times. However, a notable resurgence occurs in late spring and early summer, with both October and December peaking once again at extreme 16. The overall trend highlights the importance of sun protection during the peak months and the variability that can affect outdoor activities year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, sunshine duration exhibits a fascinating seasonal rhythm. The year kicks off with January, basking in 150 hours of sunlight, gradually declining until a mid-winter low of just 46 hours in July. This dim period gives way to a remarkable resurgence in the latter half of the year, as November boasts an impressive 187 hours, peaking in December at 211 hours. The transition from the starkest winter months to the brighter spring and summer days highlights how dynamically light patterns shift in this remote paradise, offering a unique backdrop for visitors and researchers alike.
In South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, the likelihood of sunny weather varies throughout the year, revealing intriguing seasonal trends. The sunniest months are May and October, each boasting a 23% chance of sunny days, providing a delightful respite from the typically overcast climate. Following closely is June, with a 27% likelihood, making it a standout choice for sunshine seekers. As the year progresses, February shines the brightest with a 20% chance, while the early months of winter, particularly April and July, dip to just 13% and 15% respectively. This fluctuation suggests that while sunny days can be elusive, the months leading into the austral summer present the best opportunities for basking in sunshine amidst the region's stunning landscapes.
In South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, daylight hours fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, showcasing the region's unique seasonal rhythm. January basks in the longest days, with an impressive 16 hours of daylight, gradually tapering to 14 hours in February. As spring gives way to autumn, daylight diminishes steadily—12 hours in March, descending to just 8 hours by May. The winter months of June and July present the darkest days, each offering only 7 hours of light. However, the sun begins its return in late winter, as August nudges daylight up to 9 hours, leading into a steady increase through September's 11 hours and October's 13 hours. By December, the cycle culminates in the delightful return of longer days, reaching 17 hours—a vibrant reminder of the enchanting variations in daylight these remote islands experience throughout the year.
The climate of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands reflects the stark beauty and challenges of this remote region. Temperatures exhibit a notable decline from the summer months of January and February, where highs reach up to 9°C (48°F), to the depths of winter in July, plummeting to a frigid maximum of just 3°C (38°F). This seasonal shift is underscored by persistent precipitation, with an average of 19 to 23 rainy days per month, particularly in March and April, creating a lush yet damp environment. Furthermore, humidity levels remain high year-round, peaking at 92% in January, which contributes to the cool temperatures feeling more biting. As we observe these trends, it's evident that this remote archipelago is shaped by its harsh yet fascinating climatic conditions, requiring both resilience and adaptability from its unique flora and fauna.