Climate & Weather in Vanuatu
Vanuatu enjoys a tropical to subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Understanding the seasons is important, especially the cyclone-prone wet season.
Seasonal Overview
Dry Season (May - October):
- Cooler, less humid
- Average temps: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Lower rainfall
- Trade winds provide cooling
- Best time for outdoor activities
- Peak tourist season
Wet Season (November - April):
- Hot and humid
- Average temps: 24-32°C (75-90°F)
- Heavy rainfall, often afternoon storms
- Cyclone risk highest January-March
- Higher humidity (80%+)
- Lush, green landscapes
Temperature by Month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 31°C | 24°C | High |
| February | 31°C | 24°C | High (peak cyclone) |
| March | 30°C | 24°C | High (cyclone risk) |
| April | 29°C | 23°C | Moderate |
| May | 28°C | 22°C | Low |
| June | 27°C | 21°C | Low |
| July | 26°C | 20°C | Low (coolest) |
| August | 26°C | 20°C | Low |
| September | 27°C | 20°C | Low |
| October | 28°C | 21°C | Low |
| November | 29°C | 22°C | Moderate |
| December | 30°C | 23°C | High |
Cyclone Season
Critical information:
When: November to April (peak January-March)
What to expect:
- Tropical storms and cyclones form in the Pacific
- Can bring winds 100-300+ km/h
- Heavy flooding possible
- Power and water outages
- Travel disruptions
Recent major cyclones:
- Cyclone Pam (2015): Category 5, devastating damage
- Cyclone Harold (2020): 270 km/h winds, 42% of population affected
- Cyclones Judy & Kevin (2023): Back-to-back impact
Preparation:
- Monitor weather warnings (VMGD)
- Have emergency supplies ready
- Know evacuation procedures
- Secure property before season begins
Regional Variations
Southern Islands (Port Vila, Tanna):
- Slightly cooler
- More pronounced seasons
- Comfortable year-round
Northern Islands (Santo, Banks):
- Warmer and more tropical
- Higher humidity
- More rainfall
Living with the Climate
Daily rhythm:
- Early morning: Cool and pleasant
- Midday: Warm/hot (seek shade or AC)
- Afternoon: Possible rain shower (wet season)
- Evening: Comfortable, often breezy
Comfort strategies:
- Air conditioning in bedrooms (essential for many)
- Ceiling fans
- Afternoon rest during hottest hours
- Light, breathable clothing
- Stay hydrated
Best Times to Visit/Move
For moving:
- May-October: Best weather for settling in
- Avoid January-March for arrival (cyclone peak)
For visiting first:
- June-September: Ideal conditions
- Dry, comfortable, minimal cyclone risk
What to Pack/Have
Essential items:
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable sandals and one pair closed shoes
For your home:
- Air conditioning or good fans
- Dehumidifier (for wet season)
- Cyclone emergency kit
- Generator backup
Water and Ocean
Sea temperature: 24-28°C year-round (perfect for swimming)
Best water activities:
- Diving/snorkeling: Year-round (better visibility dry season)
- Swimming: Year-round
- Fishing: Year-round
Cautions:
- Box jellyfish possible (rare)
- Check local advice for swimming spots
- Underwater currents in some areas
Pro Tips
- •Plan your move for May-October to avoid cyclone season arrival
- •Air conditioning is essential for comfortable sleep during wet season
- •Monitor Vanuatu Meteorology (VMGD) during cyclone season
- •The dry season (May-Oct) has ideal weather - cooler and less humid
- •Sea temperatures are perfect year-round for swimming and diving
Have questions about climate & weather in Vanuatu?