Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of the U.S. Virgin Islands is characterized by warm temperatures and diverse precipitation patterns throughout the year. In Saint Thomas Island, the minimum temperature in February hovers around 22°C (72°F), while Saint Croix Island experiences a peak of 29°C (85°F) in September. Rainfall varies notably, with Saint Croix Island receiving as little as 31 mm (1.2 in) in February, escalating to a maximum of 161 mm (6.3 in) in September on Saint Thomas Island. Humidity levels are also prominent; average minimum humidity reaches 74% in March in Saint Thomas Island, while the maximum can soar to 83% in July on Saint Croix Island. This unique climate influences the islands' rich ecosystems and vibrant communities, making them a fascinating subject for exploration.
The climate of the Virgin Islands (U.S.) varies across its enchanting islands, each exhibiting distinct characteristics that contribute to their unique ecosystems. Saint Croix Island enjoys a tropical wet and dry climate (Köppen-Geiger class Aw), where warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons create a vibrant landscape. In contrast, both Saint John Island and Saint Thomas Island share a tropical monsoon climate (Am), characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall, which supports lush vegetation and stunning natural beauty. This diverse climatic tapestry not only shapes the islands' environment but also influences the rich culture and recreational opportunities available to visitors.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Am | Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall and high temperatures. |
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
The U.S. Virgin Islands enjoy a delightful warm climate year-round, featuring mild minimum temperatures that hover between 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F), and maximum temperatures ranging from 26°C (80°F) to 29°C (85°F). January kicks off the year with cooler nights, particularly on Saint John Island, where temperatures dip to 23°C (74°F), while Saint Croix Island basks in a maximum of 27°C (81°F). As spring approaches in April, temperatures begin to rise slightly, with max temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F). By the time summer rolls in, the islands experience their warmest temperatures, peaking at 29°C (84°F) to 29°C (85°F) in July and August, with consistent nights around 25°C (77°F). As the season shifts to autumn, September and October maintain those warm averages, before gradually cooling down in November and December, where temperatures stabilize around 24°C (75°F) at night and hover between 28°C (83°F) during the day. This gentle temperature fluctuation makes the Virgin Islands a paradise for sun seekers throughout the year, with only a slight variation in warmth.
The precipitation patterns in the U.S. Virgin Islands reveal interesting trends throughout the year, marked by both variability and intensity. February typically experiences the least rainfall, with a minimum of 31 mm (1.2 in) recorded in Saint Croix Island, while the peak occurs in September, where Saint Thomas Island sees significant rainfall reaching 161 mm (6.3 in). This month is also notable for its frequency of precipitation, as Saint Croix Island experiences up to 20 days of rain. In contrast, April stands out with a relatively dry spell, receiving rainfall on just 8 days in Saint John Island. Collectively, these patterns underscore a pronounced rainy season in late summer, which contrasts sharply with the drier conditions seen in the early months of the year.
In the Virgin Islands (U.S.), humidity levels fluctuate noticeably throughout the year, creating a tropical atmosphere that is both warm and moist. March experiences a relatively lower humidity, hitting a minimum of 74% on Saint Thomas Island, providing a brief respite before the summer months. As the season shifts to July, humidity peaks at 83% in Saint Croix Island, contributing to the islands’ lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems. This trend underscores the characteristic humidity of the region, where warmth and moisture intertwine to define the tropical climate, making each visit an immersive experience in paradise.
In the U.S. Virgin Islands, September showcases a pronounced trend in UV intensity, with both Saint Thomas Island and Saint Croix Island recording an average daily maximum UV Index of 14. This consistent reading highlights the islands' elevated sun exposure during this month, emphasizing the need for sun safety measures. Visitors and locals alike should be aware of this high UV index, ensuring they take necessary precautions to protect their skin while enjoying the beautiful tropical environment. Recognizing these trends can help everyone make informed decisions about outdoor activities in the sunny Caribbean.
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In the U.S. Virgin Islands, sunshine duration exhibits a noticeable seasonal pattern, with January averaging 258 hours on Saint Thomas Island and 260 hours on Saint Croix Island. As the year progresses into May, both islands bask in significantly more sunlight, boasting 358 hours on Saint Thomas and an impressive 361 hours on Saint Croix. This trend highlights the islands' transition from cooler, shorter days in winter to longer, sun-drenched days as summer approaches, making it a perfect destination for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The likelihood of sunny weather in the U.S. Virgin Islands varies significantly throughout the year and across its islands. For instance, Saint Croix Island experiences only a modest 23% chance of sunny days in June, suggesting that visitors might encounter more overcast conditions during the summer. In contrast, Saint Thomas Island boasts a much sunnier outlook with a remarkable 73% likelihood of sunshine in February, making it an ideal escape for those seeking to soak up the sun during the winter months. This stark contrast highlights how seasonal changes can influence weather patterns, inviting travelers to plan their visits according to their sunny weather preferences.
In the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly on Saint Thomas Island, daylight hours vary significantly throughout the year, reflecting the tropical climate's seasonal shifts. In December, visitors can expect around 11 hours of sunlight each day, a time when the island enjoys cooler temperatures and festive atmospheres. Fast forward to June, and the long days bring 13 hours of bright sunshine, perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. This trend underscores the islands' appeal as a year-round destination, balancing between cozy winter warmth and vibrant summer energy.
Saint Croix Island boasts a tropical climate that entices visitors year-round with its warm temperatures, ranging from a comfortable 23°C (74°F) in January to a balmy 29°C (84°F) during the summer months. Although the island experiences a wet season, particularly from August to September with precipitation peaking at 156 mm (6.2 in), the humidity remains relatively stable around 77% to 83%, enhancing the lush landscapes. With mild winters and splendid sunshine, the weather creates an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures and relaxation. Discover more about the island's inviting atmosphere by exploring the Saint Croix Island climate.
Saint John Island enjoys a tropical climate with consistent warm temperatures year-round, ranging from 23°C (74°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in the summer months. Humidity levels remain notably high, peaking in July and August at around 82%, which contributes to the lush, vibrant landscapes. Rainfall varies significantly, with the wettest months typically being September and August, receiving 157 mm (6.2 in) and 113 mm (4.4 in), respectively. Despite these showers, the island remains a paradise for sun-seekers, as daily temperatures rarely dip below 25°C (77°F). Explore more about the season's charm and weather conditions at Saint John Island climate.
Saint Thomas Island boasts a tropical climate that promises warm temperatures year-round. With average temperatures ranging from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in winter to a balmy 28°C (82°F) during the summer, it’s an ideal destination for sun-seekers. While the island enjoys modest rainfall, particularly in the late summer months with September rains reaching up to 161 mm (6.3 in), the humidity remains a constant factor, hovering around 75-80%. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the vibrant culture, the weather is sure to enhance your experience in paradise. For more detailed climatological information, visit Saint Thomas Island climate.
The climate of the U.S. Virgin Islands showcases a fascinating blend of warmth and humidity, characteristic of tropical paradises. Throughout the year, temperatures remain pleasantly mild, with February lows averaging around 22°C (72°F) in Saint Thomas Island and reaching up to 29°C (85°F) in the heat of September on Saint Croix Island. Precipitation patterns reveal a notable contrast: February experiences a minimum rainfall of just 31 mm (1.2 in) in Saint Croix Island, while September brings hefty showers, peaking at 161 mm (6.3 in) in Saint Thomas Island. Humidity levels oscillate between 74% in March, a relatively comfortable month in Saint Thomas Island, and climb to a sticky 83% in July on Saint Croix Island. This variation underscores the islands' unique tropical climate, where balmy temperatures mix with the rhythms of precipitation, creating a vibrant ecosystem for both residents and visitors.