The climate of Virgin Gorda
Identified within the Köppen climate classification,
Virgin Gorda is uniquely situated in a predominantly tropical monsoon climate. Being geographically positioned within the
British Virgin Islands, the weather remains typically tropical - both hot and wet throughout the year. Gaining more insight into the climate specifics, it becomes apparent that temperatures rarely fluctuate much from an annual high of 31°C (87.8°F) down to a low of 21°C (69.8°F), inducing a sense of unchanging summer all year round.
An analysis centered on precipitation patterns in Virgin Gorda reveals a rather constant cycle of rain, with monthly averages oscillating mildly between 54mm (2.13") and 161mm (6.34"). An estimated 16 to 21 rainy days a month are quite typical across the year, suggesting plentiful showers dispersed every month. Seawater temperatures make a slow climb from 26°C (78.8°F) in the initial phase of the year, reaching a peak of 29°C (84.2°F) in the latter part of the year, and gently reverting to the starting temperatures. The daylight hours somewhat follow the zeniths and nadirs of the sun, with the shortest in
December at approximately 11 hours steadily increase to a maximum of 13.2 hours by mid-year. The combination of abundant sunshine hours and a high UV index paints a landscape of unyielding sunlight, intensifying towards noon each day and promoting a continual sense of tropical heat.
Distinctive weather patterns emerge when examining the months of
April to
November. It is during these months that higher rainfalls, from 73mm (2.87") to 161mm (6.34"), present themselves, culminating in increased precipitation days. The hotter months are also recorded within this period, in conjunction with sea temperatures that surpass 26°C (78.8°F), solidifying these months as the wet and hot phase of Virgin Gorda's annual climate cycle.
The best time to visit Virgin Gorda
Judging by the consistency of tropical weather conditions throughout the year, it might be beneficial for visitors to opt for the early part of the year, precisely from
January to
March. During these months, climatic conditions are slightly milder, featuring lesser rainfall amounts that span between 54mm (2.13") to 68mm (2.68"), comparatively cooler temperatures, and comfortable sea temperatures of 26°C (78.8°F). This time frame promises more delightful conditions, suitable for beach activities and exploring the breathtaking landscapes with less risk of rainfall interruptions.
The worst time to visit Virgin Gorda
The months stretching from
September to
November typically translate into less favorable conditions for visitors. During these months,
Virgin Gorda experiences the highest rainfall amounts, peaking at 161mm (6.34") and also the greatest number of rainy days. The temperatures during these months also reach a high of 31°C (87.8°F), coupled with sea temperatures hitting the yearly high of 29°C (84.2°F). While this period facilitates lush vegetation growth, it can often lead to travel disruptions due to heavy showers.
Spring weather in Virgin Gorda
Through
March,
April, and
May,
Virgin Gorda begins to experience a gradual increase in rainfall from 57mm (2.24") to 129mm (5.08") accompanied by an increase in rainy days from 14 to 16. This period also hosts a steady rise in both minimum and maximum temperatures, with the latter reaching up to 29°C (84.2°F) by May’s end. Sea temperatures during the spring months rise steadily from 26°C (78.8°F) to 27°C (80.6°F), while daylight hours stretch from 12.1 hours in March to 13 hours by May's end.
Summer weather in Virgin Gorda
Journeying into the summer months of
June,
July, and
August,
Virgin Gorda witnesses an upsurge in rainfall. June introduces rainfall amounts of 73mm (2.87"), peaking at 124mm (4.88") in August. Corresponding with this, the number of rainy days goes from 15 in June to 20 in August. Notably, sea temperatures elevate to 28°C (82.4°F) by June and progressively climb to 29°C (84.2°F) by August's end, creating perfect conditions for water activities.
Autumn weather in Virgin Gorda
Autumn, from
September to
November, is characterized by high rainfall measures from 143mm (5.63") in September escalating to reach a peak of 161mm (6.34") in both
October and November. These months accommodate a high number of rainy days, culminating in 20 by November. Although temperatures during this period show minor fluctuations, they remain relatively warm, with sea temperatures lingering around the annual high of 29°C (84.2°F) before cooling to 28°C (82.4°F) by November.
Winter weather in Virgin Gorda
December to
February, the winter season in
Virgin Gorda, ushers in a gradual decrease in rainfall from 119mm (4.69") in December to 54mm (2.13") by the close of February. A similar trend can be observed in the decrease of rainy days, starting with 21 in December and dropping to 15 by February’s end. Temperatures remain relatively warm during this period, hovering from a high of 28°C (82.4°F) to a low of 21°C (69.8°F). Sea temperatures also experience a slight decrease from 27°C (80.6°F) in December to 26°C (78.8°F) at the end of February. All in all, winter is a desirable season, setting the stage for pleasant outdoor explorations.
Weather in January
Reflecting on
Virgin Gorda's tropical climate,
January commences the year with warm temperatures, albeit the month experiences more rainfall with 68mm (2.68") over 19 days. The trends suggest a small shift towards the dry season with
February bearing fewer rainfall days and less precipitation.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February ushers in a perceptible shift from
January's downpours, resulting in drier conditions and a decrease in rainfall to 54mm (2.13") over 15 days. On the horizon, the tropical weather conditions that define
March make their onset with increasing daylight hours and higher UV index.
Weather in February » Weather in March
The progression into
March sees a rise in UV radiation, reaching a peak UV index of 12, coupled with increasingly extended daylight hours.
April, however, promises a further increase in overall temperatures, culminating into peak warmth towards the middle of the year.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April extends the steady warmth of preceding months even with a heightened 88mm (3.46") rainfall spanning across 13 days. Steadily nearing the mid-year, a slight surge in temperature can be expected in the upcoming
May. During April,
Virgin Gorda encapsulates the essence of a tropical paradise where landscapes flourish under steady sunlight despite the rain.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May is characterized by the most significant upswing in rainfall for the year, with 129mm (5.08") precipitation observed. Set to decline slightly,
June's weather data indicates slightly fewer rainfall days. Nonetheless, the charm of
Virgin Gorda isn't dull during May as an increased number of sunshine hours fill the days, ensuring a lively atmosphere across the island.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Despite experiencing fewer rainy days than
May,
June remains a relatively wet month. The slightly lower rainfall is but a prequel to a moderately wet
July that still sees an average of 18 rainfall days. Sunlit hours cover most of June's days, enhancing the months allure by casting a lovely glow over
Virgin Gorda.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is another peak month for rainfall with an average of 85mm (3.35"), congruous with the typical tropical climate. An indication of heavier rainfall trends to set off from
August sediments from July's meteorological data. As with previous months, sea temperatures maintain their warmth, rendering marine activities still feasible regardless of rainfall.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues to follow the peak rainy season trend and records a significant rise in precipitation with a significant 124mm (4.88") of rainfall.
September sets the stage for an increase in both, rainfall days and precipitation.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September promulgates the heaviest rainfall in the year with 143mm (5.63") over 19 days. Likely reducing slightly,
October's data shows somewhat lesser rainfall days. Despite the heavy rains,
Virgin Gorda continues to exude its tropical charm, with ample sunlight hours painting the island vibrant.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Though less rain falls in
October with 161mm (6.34") over 19 days, it remains one of the wettest months.
November offers similar conditions with an equal measure of rainfall days but lower precipitation. During this month,
Virgin Gorda's tropical ambiance continues to spellbind across the island, with rainfall gently cascading over landscapes.
Weather in October »Weather in November
Matching
October's weather conditions closely,
November witnesses 161mm (6.34") of rainfall spread over 20 days. The month presents a preliminary glance at
December's weather by exhibiting slightly lower average temperatures. The island appeals to many as the sea temperature supports a variety of water activities.
Weather in November »Weather in December
The year wraps up with a significant amount of rainfall in
December, 119mm (4.69") over 21 days, a slight reduction from
November. As
January turns the calendar leaf, a slow but steady decrease in rainfall towards the early months of the year is likely.
Weather in December »