Climate and monthly weather forecast
Butaritari Atoll, Kiribati

Butaritari Atoll, situated in Kiribati, boasts a tropical rainforest climate, referred to as Af in the Köppen climate classification. This type of climate is characterized by high temperatures year-round and substantial rainfall. When observing the climate and weather patterns of Butaritari Atoll, it becomes evident that the average sea temperature does not deviate drastically, ranging from 28.7°C (83.7°F) in December to a slight peak of 29.5°C (85.1°F) in the months of June and August. The island enjoys approximately 12 hours of daylight throughout the year, with a marginal rise to 12.3 hours between May to July. The consistency in daylight hours and sea temperatures lends itself to a predictably tropical climate, emphasized by the constant high temperatures and fairly consistent rainfall throughout the year.

One climatological feature that stands out in the case of Butaritari Atoll is its continuous high sea temperature, which ranges between 28.7°C (83.7°F) and 29.5°C (85.1°F). This small fluctuation reinforces its tropical rainforest climate credentials, as sea temperatures play a significant role in maintaining the year-round, elevated terrestrial temperatures. Even during the coldest month, December, the sea temperature is still a warm 28.7°C (83.7°F). Moreover, daylight hours remain remarkably constant throughout the year, ranging from 11.9 hours in December to 12.3 hours between May and July.

Given the almost indistinguishable variation in sea temperature and daylight hours, the tropical environment provides a welcoming retreat throughout the year. However, discerning visitors might prefer the slightly cooler sea temperatures, hovering around 28.7°C (83.7°F) in December. This period also corresponds to the shortest daylight hours of the year, at 11.9 hours.

From the perspective of a visitor seeking to avoid the maximum heat, the time to steer clear of Butaritari Atoll is when the sea temperatures are at their highest, around 29.5°C (85.1°F), in the months of June and August. It's worth noting, however, that no matter when one visits, the high sea temperatures and consistent daylight hours ensure there is no escaping the heat and humidity.

Springtime on Butaritari Atoll sees the sea temperature gradually increase, starting from 28.8°C (83.8°F) in March and reaching 29.3°C (84.7°F) by May. Daylight hours also begin to lengthen during this time, incrementally increasing from 12 hours in March to 12.3 hours by the end of May.

Summers are warm in Butaritari Atoll, with sea temperatures reaching their yearly peak of 29.5°C (85.1°F) in June and August. The daylight hours remain lengthy, around 12.3 hours from June to July which slightly lessen to 12.2 hours by the advent of August.

Autumn marks slight relief from the peak summer warmth, as the sea temperature decreases from 29.5°C (85.1°F) in August to 29.2°C (84.6°F) by October. The daylight hours also start to decrease, moving from 12.2 hours in August to 12.1 hours in October.

Winters in Butaritari Atoll present the coolest sea temperatures of the year, albeit still comfortably warm. December has the lowest sea temperature of the year, at 28.7°C (83.7°F), and also the shortest daylight hours, at 11.9 hours.

January marks an onset of the year with a consistent sea temperature of 28.8°C (83.8°F). It is a period of stable weather conditions as it aligns itself with the preceding month, December, and the succeeding month, February. Negligible variations can be noted in the daily light exposure, adhering to the 12-hours per day norm. Weather in January »

In-sync with January, February records identical patterns in sea temperatures, maintaining an undeviating average of 28.8°C (83.8°F). Equalizing the day and night durations, it facilitates day-long opportunities for tourists and locals to relish the serene island life. Weather in February »

Continuing the trend set by January and February, March at Butaritari Atoll showcases minimal alterations in the climatological parameters. Sea temperatures remain comfortably warm at 28.8°C (83.8°F), aligning perfectly with its adjacent months. Weather in March »

April witnesses a promising increase in sea temperatures, making it one of the warmest months with a consistent average of 29.3°C (84.7°F). This climb aligns closely with the surging daylight hours, reaching its zenith at 12.2 hours. Weather in April »

May brings with it a surge in sea temperature that plateaus at 29.5°C (85.1°F), making it the warmest month and a paradise for water enthusiasts. As daylight hours peak, the sun-soaked island remains inviting for a majority of the day. Weather in May »

June sees a slight dip in sea temperatures to 29.4°C (84.9°F); nonetheless, the climate stays delightful for leisure activities at Butaritari Atoll. The daylight hours remain unchanged, keeping an unparalleled charm for outdoor explorations. Weather in June »

Despite a minimal variation from June, July sees a slight oscillation as the sea temperature returns to its highest average of 29.5°C (85.1°F). Daily light exposure remains constant, offering abundant daylight for diverse outdoor activities. Weather in July »

August experiences a dip in sea temperature to 29.3°C (84.7°F), following the zenith in July. The daylight duration starts receding by a fraction, with 12.2 hours of sunlight per day. However, the weather continues to be warm and inviting, with people still engaging in water activities. Weather in August »

A continuation in the declining trend of sea temperatures is seen in September, with an average of 29.2°C (84.6°F). However, the slight decline does not disrupt the typical tropical climate enjoyed by the residents. The shift towards shorter daylight hours, now at 12.1 hours daily, remains subtle, ensuring sufficient sunshine for recreational activities. Weather in September »

The sea temperature in October stays consistent with September, and it records an average of 29.3°C (84.7°F). Conditions remain steady; daylight hours mirror September’s numbers, offering 12 hours on average. This period also marks a seamless transition from the warm to cooler months, maintaining a comfortable climate for beach activities and water sports, making it a delightful time to visit Butaritari Atoll. In Butaritari Atoll, the average seawater temperature in October is 29.2°C (84.6°F). Note: Engaging in water activities, such as swimming or diving, in temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) is very pleasurable for extended periods, without any discomfort. Weather in October »

While the daylight hours taper off to 11.9 hours in November, sea temperatures at Butaritari Atoll dip slightly to 28.7°C (83.7°F), signaling the onset of the cooler season. The difference in temperature during the day and night remains minimal, maintaining a stable tropical climate. Weather in November »

December rounds out the year with temperatures dropping to meet the January level of 28.8°C (83.8°F), thereby establishing a full-circle weather pattern for the year. The pattern in December mirrors that of the beginning of the year, providing continuity and stability in climatic conditions. Weather in December »