Climate and monthly weather forecast
Papua New Guinea

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Flag of Papua New Guinea
Flag of Papua New Guinea

The climate of Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea, located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, comprises the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, along with numerous smaller islands. The country’s geography is diverse and includes coastal lowlands, mountain ranges, and islands. Given its proximity to the equator, Papua New Guinea experiences a tropical climate with minimal seasonal variation in temperatures, generally ranging between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F) year-round. The primary climatic difference arises from the amount of precipitation throughout the year, which divides the year into a wet and a dry season. The rainfall ranges from 2000mm (78.74") to 8000mm (314.96") per year, the amount typically increasing with elevation. Mountainous areas, due to their altitude, can experience cooler temperatures, especially at night.

The best time to visit Papua New Guinea

The ideal time to visit Papua New Guinea is during the dry season, typically from May to October. The dry season is characterized by less frequent rainfall, making it a more suitable time for outdoor activities and travel. Temperatures during these months are slightly cooler, making it more comfortable for visitors. Furthermore, this period coincides with the most significant cultural events, such as the Mount Hagen Cultural Show in August, offering an opportunity to experience the rich cultural diversity of the country.

The worst time to visit Papua New Guinea

The months of December to March mark the peak of the rainy season and are generally considered less ideal for travel to Papua New Guinea. Rainfall is typically heavy and frequent during this period, which can make travel difficult, particularly in remote and rural areas. The increased rainfall can lead to flooding and landslides in mountainous regions, further complicating travel. In addition, the high humidity levels coupled with high temperatures can make the weather uncomfortable for some visitors.

Spring weather in Papua New Guinea

The concept of spring as understood in temperate regions is not applicable to Papua New Guinea due to its tropical climate. However, the period from September to November can be considered analogous, as it transitions from the dry season to the wet season. Rainfall gradually increases, with temperatures remaining consistently between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The increasing humidity can make the heat feel more intense, but the emerging tropical flora provides a vibrant display of color across the country.

Summer weather in Papua New Guinea

Again, due to its tropical climate, Papua New Guinea does not have a traditional summer. However, the months of December to February, which coincide with the northern hemisphere's winter, mark the height of the rainy season. These months experience the heaviest rainfall, often exceeding 250mm (9.84") per month, especially in the coastal and mountainous regions. Despite the rainfall, temperatures remain high, typically around 28°C (82.4°F) to 30°C (86°F), contributing to high humidity levels.

Autumn weather in Papua New Guinea

In a similar vein, the conventional concept of autumn is not observed in Papua New Guinea. However, the period from March to May, which transitions from the rainy season to the dry season, can be considered as such. Rainfall gradually decreases during this period, although sporadic heavy showers are not uncommon. Daytime temperatures remain high, around 28°C (82.4°F) to 30°C (86°F), but the slightly reduced humidity levels make it more comfortable.

Winter weather in Papua New Guinea

While there is no traditional winter in Papua New Guinea due to its tropical climate, the months of June to August, coinciding with the northern hemisphere's summer, comprise the driest period of the year. Rainfall is at its lowest during these months, and while temperatures remain warm, they tend towards the lower end of the usual range, making these months more comfortable for visitors. Despite the relative lack of precipitation, the country's flora remains vibrant, and the clearer skies provide excellent visibility for highland vistas.

Weather in January

January in Papua New Guinea falls in the midst of the country's rainy season, and it is generally characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity levels. During this month, the average temperature typically ranges between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February continues the trend of the rainy season in Papua New Guinea with persistent high rainfall across the country. During this month, the average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), similar to the previous month, January. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March is a transitional month in Papua New Guinea as the country starts moving from the rainy season towards the drier season. Nevertheless, the month continues to see a high amount of rainfall, albeit slightly less than the peak rainy months of January and February. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Papua New Guinea signifies a further shift towards the drier season, with a continued decrease in rainfall compared to the preceding months. However, precipitation levels remain relatively high, as is characteristic of the country's tropical climate. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May marks the official onset of the dry season in Papua New Guinea, leading to a considerable decrease in rainfall compared to the preceding months. Despite the drop in precipitation, occasional showers can still occur. Consistent with the country's tropical climate, temperatures remain relatively stable, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). In coastal regions such as Port Moresby and Lae, the reduction in rainfall becomes more apparent in May. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June, in Papua New Guinea, falls squarely within the dry season. It sees further reductions in rainfall, making it one of the driest months of the year. Despite the decreased precipitation, temperatures remain quite consistent, generally ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), upholding the country's warm tropical climate. In coastal cities like Port Moresby and Lae, the decrease in rainfall is more pronounced, with the amount of precipitation dropping significantly compared to May. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Papua New Guinea lies in the heart of the dry season, exhibiting the least amount of rainfall throughout the year. Yet, temperatures continue to remain steady, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), reflecting the persistent warmth of the country's tropical climate. Coastal cities such as Port Moresby and Lae experience minimal rainfall during July. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Papua New Guinea continues the trend of the dry season, with the country experiencing minimal rainfall. Despite the decreased precipitation, temperatures remain relatively consistent, usually varying from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), which is characteristic of the country's tropical climate. In coastal cities such as Port Moresby and Lae, rainfall in August is typically quite low, although slightly higher than July. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Papua New Guinea signifies the beginning of the transition from the dry season to the wet season. The country sees a slight increase in rainfall compared to August, but precipitation levels are still relatively low. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Papua New Guinea marks a further shift towards the wet season, with rainfall gradually increasing compared to the preceding months. However, it is worth noting that precipitation levels remain lower than the peak wet season. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Papua New Guinea sees a significant increase in rainfall as the country moves further into the wet season. This change is accompanied by persistent high temperatures, generally ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), in line with the country's tropical climate. In coastal cities such as Port Moresby and Lae, November marks the onset of heavy rainfall. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Papua New Guinea marks the peak of the wet season with rainfall reaching its maximum for the year. Despite the significant increase in precipitation, temperatures continue to remain consistent, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), reflecting the country's tropical climate. In coastal regions such as Port Moresby and Lae, the rainfall during December is intense, often resulting in heavy downpours. Weather in December »
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Papua New Guinea

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