Yearly & Monthly weather - Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

Palm trees bent towards the ocean in a lagoon beach in Diego Garcia, within British Indian Ocean Territory

The climate of Diego Garcia

Typically regarded as a tropical paradise, Diego Garcia, belonging to the British Indian Ocean Territory, abides by the Köppen climate classification of Af, indicating a Tropical rainforest climate. Occupying a strategic geographical position, its climate remains fairly constant throughout the year, contributing to a fascinating weather pattern.

Accompanied by high temperatures and abundant rainfall, the climate profile exhibits minimal variations. Both high and low temperatures demonstrate uniformity, oscillating tightly from 30°C (86°F) to 31°C (87.8°F) and 26°C (78.8°F) to 27°C (80.6°F), respectively. Signifying this tropical region's wet feature, rainfall averages fluctuate significantly from 18mm (0.71") to 298mm (11.73") monthly, with an increase in precipitation visible between the months of April and November. This period experiences rainfall in the three-digit range while the rest of the year sees more moderate showers.

Diego Garcia experiences plenty of sunshine, with an average of 6.7 hours to 9.3 hours per day. Expectedly, the UV index remains high throughout the year, rating between 10 to 12. Additionally, sea temperatures stay largely constant at 27°C (80.6°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). This accounts for the inviting azure waters surrounding the islands, contributing to its allure. Yet, the relatively high amount of rainfall contributes to slightly fewer daylight hours, varying between 11.7 hours to 12.5 hours.

The best time to visit Diego Garcia

Considering the climate conditions throughout the year, the prime time to visit Diego Garcia tends to be between the months of December and March. These months offer the lowest average rainfall, ranging from 18mm (0.71") to 58mm (2.28"), and the fewest number of rainfall days, offering between 1 to 3 days. In these months, visitors can expect slightly longer sunshine durations, averaging between 8 hours to 9.3 hours per day, with sea temperatures hovering at an inviting 28°C (82.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). This period also presents relatively lower UV index ratings, providing safer conditions for outdoor activities and water sports.

The worst time to visit Diego Garcia

Despite the year-round warm temperatures, the period from April to November may not be particularly appealing for tourists, as it constitutes the region's rainier season. Monthly average precipitation spikes dramatically, starting at 278mm (10.94") in April and reaching up to 298mm (11.73") in August. Furthermore, the number of rainfall days also increases, averaging from 14 to 17 days and resulting in persistent overcast skies. However, those indifferent to occasional showers might still find this time appealing due to less crowded tourist spots.

Spring weather in Diego Garcia

Marking the transition from the dry to wet season, spring months in Diego Garcia, from March to May, observe an increase in rainfall. From a low of 23mm (0.91") in March, rainfall averages shoot up to 278mm (10.94") in May. The number of rainfall days also jumps from a minimal 1 day in March to 15 days by May. Sea temperatures remain largely constant at around 28°C (82.4°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) whereas daylight hours slightly decrease from 12.1 hours in March to 11.8 hours in May.

Summer weather in Diego Garcia

Summer in Diego Garcia, extending from June to August, presents a rainier period than the preceding months. Rainfall averages vary from 295mm (11.61") to 298mm (11.73") while the number of rainfall days ranges from 14 to 17 days. Despite the wet spell, summer retains hot temperatures, with highs around 30°C (86°F) and lows fluctuating from 26°C (78.8°F) to 27°C (80.6°F). Daylight hours remain almost constant at around 11.7 hours but sea temperatures witness a slight dip to predominantly 27°C (80.6°F).

Autumn weather in Diego Garcia

Autumn in Diego Garcia, comprising September through November, continues the rain-soaked trend of the year. The rainfall measures between 240mm (9.45") to 285mm (11.22") and dominates nearly half the month with 14 to 15 rainfall days. Daylight hours increase marginally from 12.1 hours in September to 12.5 hours in November. Still, high temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F), and sea temperatures restore to the slightly warmer 28°C (82.4°F) in November.

Winter weather in Diego Garcia

Diego Garcia's winter, from December to February, ushers in the island's dry season. This period sees a dramatic drop in rainfall from 186mm (7.32") in December to a low of 18mm (0.71") in February. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days reduces to just 1 day in February. Winter also brings an increase in sunshine duration, from 7.1 hours in December to 9.3 hours in February. Despite the slight drop of sea temperature to 28°C (82.4°F) and daylight limited to 12.3-12.5 hours, winter presents an ideal vacation time.

Weather in January

January in Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, reveals a warm tropical climate asserting the island's equatorial status. Temperatures fluctuate from a high of 31°C (87.8°F) to a balmy low of 27°C (80.6°F) which constitutes a consistent pattern throughout the year. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The last month of the summer, February, is hot month in Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, with an average temperature fluctuating between 26°C (78.8°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). The perfect water temperature of 28°C (82.4°F) with 18mm (0.71") of accumulated rainfall and only 1 rainfall days, makes February a great period for swimming and other water activities. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The first month of the autumn, March, is also a hot month in Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, with an average temperature varying between 27°C (80.6°F) and 30°C (86°F). The ideal sea water temperature of 29°C (84.2°F) and only 1 rainfall days, with 23mm (0.91") of accumulated rainfall, makes March the best time for swimming and other water activities. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April welcomes a drastic leap in rainfall from 23mm (0.91") to 58mm (2.28") as Diego Garcia edges closer to its wetter season's commencement. Consistency remains paramount, however, with sea and air temperatures displaying limited variation. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Diego Garcia's May witnesses further upswing in rainfall from 58mm (2.28") to a significant 278mm (10.94"), announcing the onset of the monsoon season. Despite the escalation in precipitation, there remains little variation in temperature across the island and the sea, emphasizing the tropical climate's predictability. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June interprets a continuation in the upsurge of rains with a 295mm (11.61") tally, the maximum yearly precipitation in Diego Garcia. Although the rains dominate, temperature measurements persist without major shifts, securely establishing the island's unfailing tropical climate. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Rainfall in July steps down slightly from 295mm (11.61") to 226mm (8.9"), indicating a slight break in the monsoon season's intensity. Diego Garcia's temperatures show no significant variation, reflecting unwavering climate conditions. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August spotlights a subtle surge in rainfall to 298mm (11.73"), reversing the slight break observed in July. Temperatures hold steady in comparison to preceding months, maintaining Diego Garcia's tropical ambiance. The daylight hours indicate a slight increase to 11.9 while the UV index climbs back up to 12. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September sees another reduce in rainfall to 260mm (10.24"), while temperatures, daylight hours, and the UV index continue the August pattern. Diego Garcia preserves its tropical character, blending rain-soaked days with a consistent sunshine provision of 6.7 hours. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Diego Garcia embraces a slight increase in rainfall to 285mm (11.22"), again altering the downward direction of September. Temperatures, likewise, remain unchanging, profiling the climate's predictability. The daylight hour increases marginally to 12.3, complemented by 7.6 hours of sunshine. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November spells a reduction in rainfall to 240mm (9.45"), stepping towards the end of the monsoon season. The consistent patterns of temperature, daylight, and sunshine hours stick through November, endorsing the tropical climate of Diego Garcia. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the conclusion of the truly tropical weather cycle in Diego Garcia with a decrease in rainfall to 186mm (7.32"). The leap in sunlight hours to 7.1 per day and the continuation of 12.5 daylight hours further emphasize the tropical weather pattern's year-end arc. Weather in December »

Updated: Jan 26, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What part of the year is the hottest in Diego Garcia?

The warmest period falls in January, February and December, when the average high-temperature reaches 31°C (87.8°F).

How much does it rain in Diego Garcia?

In Diego Garcia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 123 days and collects up to 2213mm (87.13") of precipitation.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Diego Garcia?

January through April, August through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index.

What is the driest month in Diego Garcia?

February is the month with the least rainfall in Diego Garcia. Rain falls for 1 days and accumulates 18mm (0.71") of precipitation.

What month has the most sunshine in Diego Garcia?

With an average of 9.3h of sunshine, February has the most sunshine of the year in Diego Garcia.

What part of the year is the coldest in Diego Garcia?

Diego Garcia's lowest temperatures tend to occur in March through November, with an average high-temperature of 30°C (86°F).

When is the sea warmest in Diego Garcia?

The months with the warmest seawater in Diego Garcia are March and April, with an average sea temperature of 29°C (84.2°F).

What are the months with the coldest sea water in Diego Garcia?

June through September, with an average sea temperature of 27°C (80.6°F), are months with the coldest seawater in Diego Garcia.

What is the month with the shortest days in Diego Garcia?

June has the shortest days of the year in Diego Garcia, with an average of 11h and 42min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Diego Garcia?

The months with the least sunshine are June and September, with an average of 6.7h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index in Diego Garcia?

June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 10, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the wettest month in Diego Garcia?

August is the month with the most rainfall in Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory. Rain falls for 14 days and accumulates 298mm (11.73") of precipitation.

When are the longest days in Diego Garcia?

December has the longest days of the year in Diego Garcia, with an average of 12h and 30min of daylight.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Diego Garcia?

Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). +06 timezone is used throughout the entire year.

Today

Tomorrow

Long-term

Year J F M A M J J A S O N D

Average temperature
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

Average high temperature in January:
31°C
Average high temperature in February:
31°C
Average high temperature in March:
30°C
Average high temperature in April:
30°C
Average high temperature in May:
30°C
Average high temperature in June:
30°C

Average high temperature in July:
30°C
Average high temperature in August:
30°C
Average high temperature in September:
30°C
Average high temperature in October:
30°C
Average high temperature in November:
30°C
Average high temperature in December:
31°C

The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are January, February and December (31°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (30°C).

Average low temperature in January:
27°C
Average low temperature in February:
26°C
Average low temperature in March:
27°C
Average low temperature in April:
27°C
Average low temperature in May:
27°C
Average low temperature in June:
26°C

Average low temperature in July:
26°C
Average low temperature in August:
27°C
Average low temperature in September:
27°C
Average low temperature in October:
27°C
Average low temperature in November:
26°C
Average low temperature in December:
27°C

The months with the highest average low temperature are January, March, April, May, August, September, October and December (27°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are February, June, July and November (26°C).

Average rainfall
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (298mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (18mm).

Average rainfall days
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

Average rainfall days in January:
3 days
Average rainfall days in February:
1 days
Average rainfall days in March:
1 days
Average rainfall days in April:
3 days
Average rainfall days in May:
15 days
Average rainfall days in June:
17 days

Average rainfall days in July:
14 days
Average rainfall days in August:
14 days
Average rainfall days in September:
15 days
Average rainfall days in October:
15 days
Average rainfall days in November:
14 days
Average rainfall days in December:
11 days

The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (17 days).
The months with the least rainy days are February and March (1 days).

Average sea temperature
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

Average sea temperature in January:
28°C
Average sea temperature in February:
28°C
Average sea temperature in March:
29°C
Average sea temperature in April:
29°C
Average sea temperature in May:
28°C
Average sea temperature in June:
27°C

Average sea temperature in July:
27°C
Average sea temperature in August:
27°C
Average sea temperature in September:
27°C
Average sea temperature in October:
28°C
Average sea temperature in November:
28°C
Average sea temperature in December:
28°C

The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are March and April (29°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are June, July, August and September (27°C).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

Average daylight in January:
12h and 3min
Average daylight in February:
12h and 2min
Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min
Average daylight in April:
11h and 5min
Average daylight in May:
11h and 5min
Average daylight in June:
11h and 4min

Average daylight in July:
11h and 4min
Average daylight in August:
11h and 5min
Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min
Average daylight in October:
12h and 2min
Average daylight in November:
12h and 2min
Average daylight in December:
12h and 3min

The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 12h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 11h and 42min).

Average sunshine in January:
8h and 0min
Average sunshine in February:
9h and 2min
Average sunshine in March:
9h and 0min
Average sunshine in April:
8h and 1min
Average sunshine in May:
7h and 1min
Average sunshine in June:
6h and 4min

Average sunshine in July:
7h and 2min
Average sunshine in August:
6h and 5min
Average sunshine in September:
6h and 4min
Average sunshine in October:
7h and 4min
Average sunshine in November:
7h and 3min
Average sunshine in December:
7h and 1min

The month with the most sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 9h and 18min).
The months with the least sunshine are June and September (Average sunshine: 6h and 42min).

Average UV index
Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 12).
The months with the lowest UV index are June and July (UV index 10).

Climate and monthly weather forecastDiego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory

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