The climate of Toliara
Located in
Madagascar,
Toliara enjoys a BSh subtropical steppe climate according to the Köppen climate classification. The city's geographical position on the southwestern coast lends it its warm, semi-arid climate, characterized by moderate to high temperatures all year round and relatively low levels of precipitation
A monthly analysis of the climatological data reveals significant variations in weather patterns. When talking about temperature, the highest figures can be expected from
December to
February with peaks of 31.5°C (88.7°F) in
January. In contrast, the temperature drops a few degrees from
May to
August, touching 25.8°C (78.4°F) in
July, which is the lowest throughout the year. When it comes to the minimum temperatures, it follows a similar trend, falling from 25.8°C (78.4°F) in January to 18.8°C (65.8°F) in July.
As for rainfall, Toliara experiences a relatively dry environment. The wettest month, January, only sees 89mm (3.5") of rainfall, which significantly dwindles to a mere 3mm (0.12") from
June to August. The number of rainfall days also follows this same pattern, decreasing from 20 days in January to just a day in August. This low level of precipitation stands as a key feature of the city's climate, with the city basking under the sunshine almost all-year-round.
Among unique weather conditions, Toliara boasts considerable hours of sunshine, reaching a maximum of 12 hours in
October and
November. However, the sunshine hours drop slightly from
April to
September, hitting a low of 7.5 hours in August. This is coupled with a high UV index, which consistently remains at 6 or 7, implying the presence of strong and potentially harmful solar radiation.
The best time to visit Toliara
Given the moderate temperatures and extremely low levels of precipitation, the best time to visit
Toliara is from
June to
August. During this period, the city basks in mild temperatures ranging from 18.8°C (65.8°F) to 26.8°C (80.2°F) coupled with minimum rainfall. The humidity is manageable, and with increased pressure patterns, the weather feels more comfortable. This period also witnesses the lowest sea temperature and might not be the best for water-based activities, but overall, it assures pleasant weather for tourists.
The worst time to visit Toliara
While
Toliara's weather throughout the year tends to be mild and relatively dry, the months from
December to
February are generally the least desirable for a visit. The city experiences the hottest temperatures of the year, with highs reaching up to 31.5°C (88.7°F). Moreover, these months observe the highest overall rainfall at 89mm (3.5") in
January, along with increased humidity. However, travellers who prefer a warmer climate may still find this period agreeable.
Spring weather in Toliara
Spring months from
September to
November in
Toliara features marked improvements in climatic conditions. With the arrival of spring, the temperature rises from 28.7°C (83.7°F) to 31.2°C (88.2°F), and there is a very slight increase in rainfall. Furthermore, the hours of daylight and sunshine also increase, making it a favourable time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer weather in Toliara
During the summer months from
December to
February,
Toliara experiences its highest temperatures with highs reaching 31.5°C (88.7°F) in
January. However, these months also bring increased precipitation, particularly in January with rainfall hitting 89mm (3.5"). Despite the increased rainfall, sunshine is ample with nearly 11 to 12 hours per day, ensuring a brightly-lit summer.
Autumn weather in Toliara
In
Toliara, the autumn season from
March to
May sees a decline in temperature, which falls from 31.1°C (88°F) in March to a cool 26.7°C (80.1°F) by May. Precipitation also reduces significantly during this period, dropping as low as 10mm (0.39") in May. The daylight hours decrease slightly, but the city continues to enjoy around 7 to 8 hours of sunshine every day.
Winter weather in Toliara
The winter months in
Toliara from
June to
August feature mild and dry conditions. Temperatures hover between 25.8°C (78.4°F) to 26.8°C (80.2°F), while sea temperatures cool down to as low as 23.9°C (75°F). The rainfall reaches its yearly lows during these months, with mere 3mm (0.12") precipitation recorded in June and
July. Despite being winter, the city sees plenty of sunshine with daylight extending up to 10 to 11 hours.
Weather in January
The weather in
January in
Toliara,
Madagascar is characteristically warm and moderately wet, seeing as this month is part of the city’s summer season. With high humidity and moderately strong winds, the coastal city becomes a hub for both locals and tourists indulging in water sports.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As the peak of summer starts to fade, the weather in
Toliara in
February inches towards the cooler and drier side. The transition from
January to February is marked by a slight decrease in temperature, rainfall, and humidity. However, the city is still bathed in an abundance of sunlight, offering clear views of the stunning landscapes.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Toliara sees a marked shift from the summer season, as temperatures gradually decline and rainfall reduces significantly to 40mm (1.57"). The city still experiences humidity, however, its levels are slightly lower than those in
February.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The month of
April in
Toliara is the beginning of the transition to the cooler months. A noticeable decrease in rainfall, from 40mm (1.57") in
March to 15mm (0.59"), results in less cloudy days and more clear, sunny skies. With the sea temperature dropping to a cooler 27.3°C (81.1°F) compared to March's 28.8°C (83.8°F), swimming becomes a refreshing activity.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May marks the onset of the cool and dry season in
Toliara. The city witnesses a significant reduction in rainfall to just 10mm (0.39"), causing a substantial decrease in cloud cover. This shift makes the sky appear clearer and bluer, resulting in more sunshine hours.
Weather in May » Weather in June
As mid-year approaches,
Toliara enters its coolest month of the year, with sea temperatures dropping to a mild 25.1°C (77.2°F). This season in Toliara is marked by a considerable reduction in humidity and rainfall, and a significant increase in dry, sunny days.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Toliara experiences the driest conditions of the entire year, with rainfall recorded at a mere 3mm (0.12"). This month is characterized by decreased humidity, very little cloud cover, and cooler sea temperatures. Such conditions make for ideal weather for sightseeing, surf fishing, or just a simple, relaxing stroll along the beach.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Toliara’s weather in
August continues to trend towards cooler, drier conditions. With sea temperatures being marginally higher than
July, the coastal city remains a top destination for the aquatically inclined. The weather remains constant in terms of wind speed and cloud cover, with both observing little variation compared to the previous month.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the end of the cool, dry season with a slight increase in the average temperature and rainfall in
Toliara. The sea temperature increases to a comfortable 24.7°C (76.5°F) compared to
August's 24.3°C (75.7°F), beckoning beachgoers back to the coastal waters.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
As
October sets in
Toliara, a distinct increase in temperature marks the transition towards the hot season. The month is identified by a rise in sea temperature and a moderate increase in rain. It is important to note that October experiences an increase in sunlight hours, making it inviting for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November in
Toliara is characterized by a further increase in temperature and rainfall, indicating the onset of the city's summer season. Accompanying these changes are the warm sea temperatures and extended hours of sunlight, making it an ideal period for beach activities and exploration.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December welcomes the peak of summer season in
Toliara, with temperature levels reaching their annual highs. The city is notably warmer and more humid compared to
November, although the daily sunshine hours remain consistent. Toliara experiences rainfall of 25mm (0.98") over the course of this month, enhancing the greenery and vibrant colors of the landscape.
Weather in December » [Resources]