Climate and monthly weather forecastNoumea, New Caledonia
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Noumea
Given its geographical position, Noumea, New Caledonia operates under the Köppen climate classification as a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. A constantly warm and moist environment is a characteristic feature of this location.The overall weather throughout the year demonstrates relatively stable average monthly high temperatures, fluctuating from a peak of 26.5°C (79.7°F) to a minimum of 20.6°C (69.1°F). Correspondingly, the average monthly lows also show minor variations from a high of 23.8°C (74.8°F) to a low of 17.6°C (63.7°F). Noumea's climate maintains a relatively consistent level of humidity, as the relative humidity values remain from 77% to 83% over the year.
Noumea's rainfall pattern shows significant contrasts throughout the year, with the maximum rainfall of 134mm (5.28") occurring in March, balanced by the lowest rainfall of 29mm (1.14") in September. The sea temperature also varies, reaching up to 27.5°C (81.5°F) in February, while cooling down to 22.8°C (73°F) from August to September.
A noteworthy characteristic of Noumea's climate is the regular level of sunshine hours which stay at a low of 5.7 hours in April to July to a high of 10 hours in November. The patterns of sunshine days largely correlate, although it slightly increases from 4.3 days in April to a peak of 8.3 days in August. The UV index remains steady at 5 or 6 throughout the year, signifying a generally moderate to high risk level of exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
The best time to visit Noumea
As far as the best time for visiting Noumea is concerned, the months from May to October can be considered ideal. During this period, the city experiences less rain, with rainfall volume dropping under 70mm (2.76") from May onwards. Additionally, the temperature during these months provides a comfortable range between 20°C (68°F) and 24°C (75.2°F). The sea temperature is not left out of the mix, cooling down from 25.2°C (77.4°F) to 22.8°C (73°F) over the same period.The worst time to visit Noumea
The period falling from December to March generally represents the worst time to visit Noumea, mostly due to the city's heaviest rainfall. The city records its highest rainfall in March at 134mm (5.28"), coupled with a higher relative humidity of 83%. Another drawback during this period is the high temperature, as the city records its highest average temperature readings with the peaks in January and February reaching up to 26.5°C (79.7°F).Spring weather in Noumea
Spring in Noumea, which spans from September to November, signifies the end of the cooler months and serves as a prelude to the more humid summer months. During this period, rainfall is usually lower, with an average rainfall between 29mm (1.14") in September and 52mm (2.05") in November. The temperature subtly climbs up, with the high temperature readings ranging from 21.3°C (70.3°F) to 23.6°C (74.5°F) and low temperature varying between 17.8°C (64°F) and 20.9°C (69.6°F) respectively. In addition, this period witnesses an increase in daylight hours, reaching 13.2 hours by November.Summer weather in Noumea
Noumea's summer period, which falls between December and February, is characterized by a combination of high temperature and high rainfall. December records the highest rainfall at 83mm (3.27"), while temperatures peak at 26.5°C (79.7°F) in January and February. The sea stays warm with average temperature recording above 26°C (78.8°F). Relative humidity levels also rise during these months up to 83%.Autumn weather in Noumea
The transition from summer to winter happens between March and May, marking the onset of the autumn climate in Noumea. During this season, temperatures begin to drop gradually from a high of 25.8°C (78.4°F) in March to a low of 21.6°C (70.9°F) by May. Correspondingly, the sea temperature also decreases from 26.9°C (80.4°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F) within the same period. Moreover, the autumn months witness a fall in rainfall, decreasing from 134mm (5.28") in March to 67mm (2.64") in May.Winter weather in Noumea
The winter season in Noumea, experienced between June and August, is characterized by lowered rainfall and temperatures. During these months, the average high temperatures fluctuate between 20.6°C (69.1°F) and 20.7°C (69.3°F), and the low temperatures range from 17.6°C (63.7°F) to 18.2°C (64.8°F). Rainfall hits the yearly low in this period, with a decrease from 67mm (2.64") to 44mm (1.73") between June and August. Despite the decrease in temperature, the sea remains relatively warm, around the 23°C (73.4°F) range, making it comfortable for water activities.Weather in January
Noumea, New Caledonia opens the year with relatively high temperatures. The weather transitions slightly from the year-end heat, although remains quite warm. Notably, the highest temperature of 25.8°C (78.4°F) paired with 83mm (3.27") of rainfall places January amidst the rainier months. Weather in January »Weather in February
The trend of warm weather carries over from January into February. The month doesn’t bring any significant changes in terms of temperature variance. February, with an average high temperature of 26.5°C (79.7°F) and 67mm (2.64") rainfall, is essentially quite similar to its preceding month. Weather in February »Weather in March
Moving into the third month, Noumea experiences a noticeable increase in rainfall. An average temperature of 25.8°C (78.4°F) along with the highest rainfall of the year at 134mm (5.28") is registered in March. Despite the increase in showers, the humidity remains relatively tolerable making outdoor activities feasible. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Noumea offers a break from the heavy rainfall of March. A decrease in temperature to an average of 24.5°C (76.1°F) marks the onset of milder conditions. A shift in weather dynamics is noticeable as the rainfall drops to 79mm (3.11") and the city settles into a relatively cooler and less rainy month. Weather in April »Weather in May
May builds on the serene weather transition started by April. Noumea continues to be relatively cooler with an average temperature of 22.8°C (73°F) and decreased rainfall of 68mm (2.68"). May stands out as the beginning of a dry period and a slightly chillier ambiance. Weather in May »Weather in June
June continues the trend of milder temperatures and decreased rainfall. Noumea's weather remains remarkably stable during this time with almost no drastic climatic fluctuations. With an average temperature of 21.6°C (70.9°F) and a decrease in rainfall to 67mm (2.64"), June offers highly tolerable weather conditions. Weather in June »Weather in July
July witnesses the coldest temperatures of the year in Noumea with an average temperature of 20.6°C (69.1°F), coupled with a further decrease in rainfall to 54mm (2.13"). This is the prime time for those who find joy in chillier winds and relatively drier days. Weather in July »Weather in August
August is characterized by a steady continuation of the cooler trend with an average temperature of 20.7°C (69.3°F). Noumea records the least amount of rainfall during the year at 44mm (1.73") in this month. The general temperature remains consistent with July, continuing the cold winds and ample sunshine. Weather in August »Weather in September
September serves as a transitional month as Noumea begins to emerge from its cooler period. The weather slightly shifts with an average temperature of 21.3°C (70.3°F) and minimal rainfall of 29mm (1.14"), marking a trend towards warmer days. Weather in September »Weather in October
As October rolls in, a hike in temperature becomes apparent in Noumea. With the average temperature jumping up to 22.6°C (72.7°F), the transformation back to the warmer part of the year is initiated. October, with rainfall of 34mm (1.34"), is distinct as the period when the city starts warming up and rainfall remains moderate. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Noumea is characterized by the continuation of the warming trend with an average temperature of 23.6°C (74.5°F). With rainfall increasing up to 52mm (2.05"), the city starts inching towards a rainier period. The weather is made pleasant by mild winds, plenty of sunshine, and slightly higher humidity levels. Weather in November »Weather in December
The city of Noumea wraps up the year with an average temperature of 24.9°C (76.8°F) and an increased rainfall of 63mm (2.48") in December. The holiday season buzzes amidst the revival of warmer days and light showers. December marks the return of higher temperatures and moderate rainfall, drawing a full circle to the weather conditions at the beginning of the year. Weather in December »Updated: Jan 24, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
In Noumea, during the entire year, the rain falls for 224.5 days and collects up to 774mm (30.47") of precipitation.
January through April, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index in Noumea.
February is the warmest month of the year, registering average temperatures as high as 26.5°C (79.7°F) and as low as 23.8°C (74.8°F).
February and March, with an average relative humidity of 83%, are most humid months.
February is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 27.5°C (81.5°F).
The month with the most rainfall is March, when the rain falls for 23.7 days and typically aggregates up to 134mm (5.28") of precipitation.
April through July, with an average of 5.7h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine in Noumea.
May through September, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the lowest UV index in Noumea.
With an average of 10h and 48min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Noumea.
Noumea's coldest month, July, generally records average temperatures ranging from a high of 20.6°C (69.1°F) to a low of 18.2°C (64.8°F).
The months with the lowest humidity in Noumea are July and August, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
August and September, with an average sea temperature of 22.8°C (73°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Noumea.
The month with the least rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 14.3 days and typically collects 29mm (1.14") of precipitation.
With an average of 10h of sunshine, November has the most sunshine of the year in Noumea.
The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 13h and 30min of daylight.
Noumea does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). +11 timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Noumea, New Caledonia
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (26.5°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (20.6°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (23.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is August (17.6°C).
Average pressure
Noumea, New Caledonia
- Average pressure in January:
1009.3mbar - Average pressure in February:
1008.5mbar - Average pressure in March:
1011.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1013.3mbar - Average pressure in May:
1015.5mbar - Average pressure in June:
1016.4mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1017.1mbar - Average pressure in August:
1017.1mbar - Average pressure in September:
1017.1mbar - Average pressure in October:
1016.1mbar - Average pressure in November:
1013.8mbar - Average pressure in December:
1011.4mbar
The months with the highest atmospheric pressure are July, August and September (1017.1mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1008.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Noumea, New Caledonia
- Average wind speed in January:
18.6km/h - Average wind speed in February:
18.2km/h - Average wind speed in March:
18.8km/h - Average wind speed in April:
18.5km/h - Average wind speed in May:
17.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
17km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
16.6km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
15.5km/h - Average wind speed in October:
17.5km/h - Average wind speed in November:
17.8km/h - Average wind speed in December:
17.8km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (18.8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (14.6km/h).
Average humidity
Noumea, New Caledonia
The months with the highest relative humidity are February and March (83%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are July and August (77%).
Average rainfall
Noumea, New Caledonia
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is March (134mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (29mm).
Average rainfall days
Noumea, New Caledonia
- Average rainfall days in January:
19.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
20.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
23.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
21.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
20.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
17.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (23.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (14.3 days).
Average sea temperature
Noumea, New Caledonia
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is February (27.5°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are August and September (22.8°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Noumea, New Caledonia
- Average daylight in January:
13h and 18min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 48min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 12min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 36min - Average daylight in May:
11h and 6min - Average daylight in June:
10h and 48min
- Average daylight in July:
10h and 54min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 24min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 36min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 12min - Average daylight in December:
13h and 30min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 13h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 10h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 12min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 6min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 54min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 42min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 42min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 42min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 42min - Average sunshine in August:
5h and 54min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 6min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 36min - Average sunshine in November:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 42min
The month with the most sunshine is November (Average sunshine: 10h and 0min).
The months with the least sunshine are April, May, June and July (Average sunshine: 5h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Noumea, New Caledonia
- Average sunshine days in January:
7.6 days - Average sunshine days in February:
5.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
4.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
6.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
7.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
8.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
8.1 days - Average sunshine days in October:
6.2 days - Average sunshine days in November:
7.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
7.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (8.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (4.3 days).
Average UV index
Noumea, New Caledonia
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, October, November and December (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are May, June, July, August and September (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Noumea, New Caledonia
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 50).
The month with the least cloud cover is September (Cloud cover 34).
Average visibility
Noumea, New Caledonia
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
