The climate of Alotau
Characterized by the Köppen climate classification as Af,
Alotau,
Papua New Guinea boasts a tropical rainforest climate. This classification and the geographical position of the city on the eastern coast of Papua New Guinea ensure relatively consistent weather throughout the year, with significant rainfall and high humidity levels.
Temperature variations are minimal, registering highs ranging from 25.9°C (78.6°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F) and lows from 23.3°C (73.9°F) to 25.6°C (78.1°F) on an annual scale. Humidity stays high, circulating between 77 and 84%, inherent to the tropics. Evidently, there is no significant decline or rise in temperatures, which establishes a muggy and warm climate for most of the year.
Rainfall is another significant feature of Alotau's climate, with an average rainfall height fluctuating from 66mm (2.6") to 163mm (6.42") per month. There is no complete cessation of rain throughout the year, with the number of rainfall days varying from 15.4 to 23.1 days per month. Hence, Alotau experiences a wet climate, receiving consistent rainfall almost throughout the year.
Furthermore, wind patterns reveal a progressively increasing trend from 6.7km/h (4.2mph) to 13.6km/h (8.5mph) and then moderately decreasing towards the end of the year. Gusts show a similar pattern, with a minimum of 10km/h (6.2mph) rising towards the end of the year with a maximum of 19.7km/h (12.2mph). This indicates a slightly windy climate, more intense towards the latter half of the year.
The best time to visit Alotau
Notably, the best time to visit
Alotau is during the months when the rainfall is comparatively low, and sunshine hours peak. This phase starts from
August and lasts through
October. During these months, the rainfall decreases from 87mm (3.43") to the annual minimum of 66mm (2.6"), and the number of sunny days increases to 10.5 to 10.3, providing extended daylight enjoyment for visitors. Simultaneously, the temperature remains relatively warm, with highs averaging more than 26°C (78.8°F). These conditions make it an ideal time to explore the outdoor activities and sightseeing Alotau offers.
The worst time to visit Alotau
Taking into account the rainfall and sunshine,
March tends to be the most challenging month for visitors. It receives the maximum annual rainfall of 163mm (6.42"), with 21.3 days of rain, which might hinder outdoor plans. Furthermore, it sees the year's lowest hours of sunshine, clocking in at six hours in a day, reducing daylight enjoyment.
Spring weather in Alotau
Marked by rising temperatures and a moderate level of rainfall, the spring in
Alotau, from
March to
May, offers delightful weather. The daylight lasts for approximately 11.9 to 11.6 hours per day, providing ample opportunities for daylight expedition. Simultaneously, the sea temperature remains about 29°C (84.2°F), suitable for water-centered activities.
Summer weather in Alotau
Presenting warm weather with high humidity,
Alotau's summer extends from
June to
August. The temperature hovers from 25.9°C (78.6°F) to 26.5°C (79.7°F), creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere for the visitors. Rainfall drops to 87mm (3.43") in August, diminishing the rainy days to 15.4 days.
Autumn weather in Alotau
Autumn in
Alotau, ranging from
September to
November, is showcased by consistent temperatures and lowered rainfall. Temperatures maintain a warm 26.5°C (79.7°F) to 28.2°C (82.8°F). Concurrently, rainfall goes down to 90mm (3.54") in November, with 18.6 rainy days.
Winter weather in Alotau
Alotau's winter, from
December to
February, experiences relatively high temperatures from 28.3°C (82.9°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F). Rainfall is fairly high, within 100mm (3.94") to 132mm (5.2") range, with approximately 20 days of rainfall each month. However, the sea temperature remains inviting, holding steady at 29°C (84.2°F), making it pleasant for water activities.
Weather in January
Alotau in
Papua New Guinea is truly a tropical paradise to kick start the year.
January holds the promise of pleasant warmth with its high of 29.5°C (85.1°F) and a low of 25.5°C (77.9°F). The city embraces regular rainfall with intermittent sunshine hours.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Following
January,
February observes similar weather conditions with only a minor drop in temperature. Unchanged from January, the visibility remains at an optimal 10km (6.2mi). The days are slighty shorter, but still providing ample daylight.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As the third month rolls in,
Alotau continues its tropical rhythm of warm temperatures and frequent rain. With total monthly rainfall reaching 163mm (6.42"), it is one of the high points in the year. The tidal waters start to warm up again near the end of the month as summer approaches.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Alotau witnesses subtle changes from
March's weather pattern. The month records a decrease in the sea's temperature to 29°C (84.2°F). With reduced daylight hours, the city experiences slightly cooler evenings. Regular rainfall maintains the city's lush greenery and helps to moderate the temperature.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May tends to carry with it a slight drop in the temperature from the preceding month. Amidst a decline in daylight from 11.9 hours to 11.6 hours, the city ensures comfortable living conditions. Despite the increased relative humidity of 83%, the coastal breezes help maintain a comfortable atmosphere.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June, the temperatures further drop along with the sea's temperature, reflecting the typical mid-year climate. With a peak wind speed at 13.6km/h (8.5mph), the city experiences the most substantial winds of the year. The decrease in temperature and increased wind speeds create a refreshing ambiance.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
As
Alotau enters into
July, there's a noticeable drop in temperature creating comfortable conditions. The daylight starts increasing from 11.6 hours to 11.8 hours compared to
June. There's a slight drop in the wind speed but still breezy enough to generate a refreshing atmosphere.
Weather in July »Weather in August
In
August,
Alotau gives a comfortable break from the excessive rainfall typical of the earlier months. With rainfall dipping to a low of 70mm (2.76"), it is the driest month of the year. Higher daylight of 11.8 hours contributes to more sunshine hours and less cloud cover.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September in
Alotau continues the respite from intense rainfall experienced in
August. Reaching up to 7.5 sunshine hours, it marks the onset of brighter days. The temperatures maintain their typical range, contributing to the ongoing pleasant climatic conditions.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October observes an increased rainfall of 112mm (4.41"), yet it remains below the year's highs. With the sunlight peaking at 8.2 hours, it marks the increase in sunshine days. October dawns with increased daylight hours promising a balance between rain and shine.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November witnesses a surge in temperatures, indicating the arrival of late summer. In comparison to
October, November presents more sunshine hours extending to 9.7 hours. The warmth of the sea and land encourages tourists and locals to indulge in various water sports.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Closing the year,
December carries forward the weather trends noticed in
November. The sea temperature again reaches its peak for the year at 29°C (84.2°F). As daylight continues to be generous, the city enjoys its sunny days complemented by cool breezes.
Weather in December » [Resources]