The climate of Atuona
Situated in the easternmost part of
French Polynesia,
Atuona falls under the Köppen climate classification of Af—tropical rainforest. This climate type characterizes the region with consistent rainfall throughout the year and no dry season. The city's high humidity contributes to the steady precipitation observed.
Over the year, average temperatures in Atuona range from a comfortable 23°C (73.4°F) to a high of 31°C (87.8°F). The warmest months are often between
December and
April, with the mercury peaking normally at 31°C (87.8°F). The least hot period of the year is experienced from
June to
September when temperatures average around 28°C (82.4°F). Notably, Atuona has a narrow temperature range, thereby indicating a negligible variation in thermal conditions for the twelve months.
Rainfall in Atuona is most abundant from
February to June, peaking in
March at 175mm (6.89"). A diminished rainfall trend is observed from
July to December, with the driest month being
November, registering 66mm (2.6") only. Despite this, considerable rainfall is still observed during the "drier" months, affirming the tropical rainforest type of climate even in the perceived less rainy periods.
Sea temperatures in Atuona stay warm all year, oscillating from a low of 27.1°C (80.8°F) in September to a high of 28.3°C (82.9°F) concerning March till
May. These warm ocean conditions favor diverse marine bio-lifestyles typical of tropical regions.
The best time to visit Atuona
Given the year-round high-temperature range and heavy rainfall, determining the best time to visit
Atuona depends on the particular weather preferences of the visitor. However, considering relatively lower rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures, the months from
July to
October could present more favorable conditions for outdoor activities. During these months, average temperature is marginally reduced to 28°C (82.4°F) and average rainfall ranges from 81mm (3.19") to 122mm (4.8").
The worst time to visit Atuona
For those who prefer less rain and humidity, the months from
February to
June could be considered less ideal instances to visit
Atuona. This period welcomes the highest average monthly rainfall ranging between 122mm (4.8") and 175mm (6.89"). Moreover, the region witnesses its highest temperatures between 30°C (86°F) to 31°C (87.8°F) during these months, which might pose discomfort for heat-sensitive individuals.
Spring weather in Atuona
In
Atuona, the spring months—
March to
May—witness very warm conditions. The average high temperature peaks at 31°C (87.8°F) in March and
April, then drops slightly to 29°C (84.2°F) in May. Rainfall is abundant during spring with 137mm (5.39") to 122mm (4.8") recorded, highest being in March. These months also experience about 7 to 8 hours of sunshine each day.
Summer weather in Atuona
During the summer months from
June to
August, the average high temperature remains constant at 28°C (82.4°F) and the average low at 23°C (73.4°F). Rainfall decreases to between 100mm (3.94") and 122mm (4.8"), presenting a respite from the heavier rainfall experienced during spring. Despite reduced rainfall, the summer months still experience about 7 hours of sunshine each day.
Autumn weather in Atuona
Autumn in
Atuona, which falls between
September and
November, sees minimal changes in temperature with daytime highs averaging around 29°C (84.2°F). Rainfall continues to dwindle with an average between 66mm (2.6") and 81mm (3.19"). Sunshine hours per day slightly increase to around 8 hours, offering beautiful autumn days for outdoor engagements.
Winter weather in Atuona
Winter months of
December to
February in
Atuona are warm with average temperatures fluctuating between 30°C (86°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). However, December and February see a significant uptick in rainfall, with averages recorded at 114mm (4.49") and 91mm (3.58") respectively. Despite the increase in rainfall, these months still enjoy about 8 hours of sunshine each day. The UV index also peaks at 12, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Protection against skin and eye damage is consequently advised during outdoor activities in Atuona's winter.
Weather in January
The weather in
Atuona,
French Polynesia starts the new year with notable warmth and rainfall. Daylight hours span just over half the day, allowing you to enjoy plenty of sun-basked moments. The highest temperature reaches 30°C (86°F) and the lowest hovers around 23°C (73.4°F).
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
Atuona, the transition from
January to
February is subtle. The mercury ticks up slightly, yet the city maintains its warmth well. Equally consistent are the daylight hours, guaranteeing a balance between day and night. At sea, temperatures remain comfortable for beach and water-based activities.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The weather warms a tad more in
March, a season that also marks the highest rainfall at 137mm (5.39"). This rain increase follows an interesting pattern, coming after the dip in
February. Around town, daylight hours shrink marginally, a hardly noticeable change.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April sees another subtle shift in
Atuona's weather, with a slight dip in both rainfall and temperature. This recalibration provides a noticeable contrast from
March's heightened intensity. Yet, with just under half a day of sunlight, there is plenty of time to explore.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May weather in
Atuona,
French Polynesia maintains a consistent temperature while experiencing a slight bump in rainfall from the previous month with 122mm (4.8") precipitation. Despite this uptick, the month still offers great conditions for outdoor activities.
Weather in May » Weather in June
The thermometric transition from
May to
June in
Atuona is seamless. The balance of sunlight versus nighttime persists. Rainfall, however, picks up perceptibly, reaching its annual zenith in June with 175mm (6.89") observed. Even with enhanced rain probabilities, the city remains a beautiful and energetic destination.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Atuona features a return to less intensive rainfall with 122mm (4.8"), post the
June deluge. This retraction of precipitation aligns with the gradual decrease in sea temperature. Yet, the average land temperatures hold steady, neither climbing nor falling perceptibly.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Atuona's weather continues to favor pleasant temperatures both on land and at sea. The arrival of August signals the departure of the brief mid-year rainfall surge. Expect just 100mm (3.94") of rain this month, a manageable downgrade from
July’s fall.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September's weather in
Atuona,
French Polynesia sees a continuation of the unpretentious changes observed the previous month, making it seem as if the island has settled into a rhythm. There is less rain with precipitation coming in at 81mm (3.19"), and stable temperatures both on land and in the sea.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
As the calendar flips to
October, the weather in
Atuona maintains its consistency from the previous month. However, October boasts the least rainfall observed roadside in the year at a mere 79mm (3.11"). Concurrently, sea temperatures climb a notch encouraging water-bound exploration.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November heralds the onset of a marginally damper season in
Atuona, with rainfall increasing to 66mm (2.6"). Even as rain intensifies, temperatures stand firm on terra firma and at sea. Simultaneously, daylight hours lengthen slightly, providing an extended window for beach and other outdoor activities.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Atuona brings the close of the year with temperatures and sea conditions holding steady from the previous month. Meanwhile, rainfall increases to 89mm (3.5"), setting the stage for a damp end to the year. Notwithstanding the increased rain likelihood, enjoy the outdoor activities afforded by the most daylight hours of any month at 12.7 hours.
Weather in December » [Resources]