Climate and monthly weather forecastMatā'utu, Wallis and Futuna

The climate of Matā'utu

Matā'utu, the capital city of Wallis and Futuna, falls under the rare Koppen climate classification of 'Am' - monsoon. This classification indicates an environment with heavy, monsoon-like rainfall predominantly in the warmer months, and a slightly cooler dry season. Geographically, Matā'utu is located in the mid-Pacific Ocean region, which significantly affects its climatic conditions.

Throughout the year, temperatures in Matā'utu do not vary greatly. The highest temperature average fluctuates from 28.9°C (84°F) in July, marginally escalating to 30.4°C (86.7°F) in February. Similarly, lows see minimal variation, from 24°C (75.2°F) in July and August to 24.5°C (76.1°F) from February to April. Essentially, the overall weather in Matā'utu is indicative of a typically tropical climate - warm and damp throughout the year.

Rainfall exhibits a more defined pattern in this region. The wettest month is January, with an average rainfall of 381mm (15") followed closely by March and December, with 374mm (14.72") and 350mm (13.78") respectively. The driest month is August with only 150mm (5.91"). While the rainfall count varies significantly throughout the year, Matā'utu consistently receives rain, hence falling under the 'Am' classification.

Interestingly, the UV index remains quite high throughout the year. With the exception of June, July and August, when the index dips to 8 and 9, the UV index reading is at 12 the rest of the year. This indicates the need for sun protection during most months.

The best time to visit Matā'utu

Given the consistent warm temperatures and considering the lower rainfall, the months from June to September would be the most conducive for a visit to Matā'utu. During these months, daily sunshine hours are around 9 to 12 hours, sea temperatures vary between 28.2°C (82.8°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), and UV Index is relatively lower. The rainfall is also at the year's lowest, with 159mm (6.26") in June gradually decreasing to 150mm (5.91") in August.

The worst time to visit Matā'utu

Usually, Matā'utu is subjected to heavy rainfall from January to March. With rainfall ranges from 301mm (11.85") to 381mm (15") and average daylight hours decreasing to 12.2, these months might not be the most suitable for a visit. Additionally, the consistently high UV index of 12 implies the need for sun protective measures, making outdoor activities less appealing during these months.

Spring weather in Matā'utu

Spring is relatively dry in Matā'utu. Between September to November, rainfall levels gradually increase from 221mm (8.7") to 323mm (12.72"). Sea temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 28.5°C (83.3°F) to 29.3°C (84.7°F). Temperatures generally remain warm with a high ranging from 29.3°C (84.7°F) to 29.9°C (85.8°F), and a low between 24.2°C (75.6°F) and 24.3°C (75.7°F). The UV index maintains a high level of 12 throughout these months.

Summer weather in Matā'utu

Throughout the summer months of December to February, Matā'utu experiences the year's highest rainfall levels between 301mm (11.85") to 381mm (15") and the average high temperatures fluctuate from a high of 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F). Sea temperatures remain steady around 29.4°C (84.9°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F). The UV index remains at 12, indicating potential for harsh exposure to sun rays.

Autumn weather in Matā'utu

Autumn, from March to May, sees a gradual decrease in rainfall from the heavy downpours of the summer. Precipitation decreases from 374mm (14.72") to 258mm (10.16") through these months. This season still retains warmth, with the high temperature ranging from 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F) and lows between 24.5°C (76.1°F) and 24.3°C (75.7°F). The UV index holds steady at 12 in March, but reduces to 9 in May.

Winter weather in Matā'utu

Winter months in Matā'utu experience the least amount of rainfall for the year. The rainfall levels steadily decrease from June through August, reaching a yearly low of 150mm (5.91"). Temperatures remain comfortable with highs ranging from 29.4°C (84.9°F) in June to 29.1°C (84.4°F) in August and lows from 24.4°C (75.9°F) in June to 24°C (75.2°F) in July and August. The UV index dips to the year's lowest, 8 from June to August, again indicating a better time for outdoor activities.

Weather in January

Matāʻutu witnesses a clammy start to the year with the high being 30.3°C (86.5°F), which is almost identical to the high for February. The humidity sets the overall weather as balmy. As the sun shines strong, UV protection would be advisable. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In February, similar to January, warm weather continues to command Matāʻutu's ambiance. Rainfall days reduce from 18 to 16, indicating a marginal decrease in the rainfall pattern. UV protection remains essential as the UV Index stays at a high. Weather in February »

Weather in March

In March, the climatic conditions in Matāʻutu change slightly with temperatures ranging from a low of 24.5°C (76.1°F) to a tie high of 30.3°C (86.5°F). That said, the weather remains balmy. Despite the strong sunshine hours, it's important to remember that the UV index peaks during this month. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Moving into April, Matāʻutu experiences a dip in both high and low temperatures. The high temperature notably stands at 30.3°C (86.5°F), similar to the previous month, while rainfall indicates a slight decrease, adding a comfort factor to the weather. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May proves to be slightly cooler in Matāʻutu, with the high temperature falling to 29.7°C (85.5°F), a notable decrease from the previous months. Sunshine hours drop, making the days slightly flatter, but this doesn't take away from the overall tropical ambiance. Weather in May »

Weather in June

Coming into June, Matāʻutu experiences a mild weather change. The high temperature falls to 29.4°C (84.9°F). The drop in sea temperature from 29.4°C (84.9°F) in May to 29°C (84.2°F) in June makes it the coolest month so far, although the difference is barely noticeable. Weather in June »

Weather in July

In July, the high temperature further drops to 28.9°C (84°F). Despite this being the lowest high of the year to-date, the weather remains warm. The slight decrease in high temperature doesn't have much of an impact on outdoor activities. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As August rolls in, the high temperature in Matāʻutu marginally rebounds to 29.1°C (84.4°F). With only three rainfall days, this month has the least amount of rainfall so far. It allows for an increased number of outdoor activities, as the weather continues to be pleasant but less humid. Weather in August »

Weather in September

In September, weather conditions slightly improve with the high temperature rising to 29.3°C (84.7°F). Though the rainfall remains minimal, the earthy scent of recent rains maintains its charm. The overall climatic conditions continue to be enjoyable and conducive for tourists. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October ushers in slightly hotter conditions with the high temperature increasing to 29.5°C (85.1°F). However, the fluctuation is nearly imperceptible, ensuring the weather's pleasant continuity. The increase in sea temperature to 28.5°C (83.3°F) complements the prevailing warm weather. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Temperature in Matāʻutu in November ramps up with high temperatures rising further to 29.9°C (85.8°F). The warmth is reminiscent of the beginning of the year, reflecting the cyclicity of the city's climate. Sea temperature also sees an upward swing, standing at a warm 29.3°C (84.7°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

At the curtain close of the year, Matāʻutu experiences the highest temperature of the year along with increased rainfall of 350mm (13.78") over 12 days. As Matāʻutu steps into the festive month, the weather compliments the merriment. Weather in December »