The climate of Tengatangi
Tengatangi in the
Cook Islands finds its location in the South Pacific Ocean, bearing the Köppen climate classification of Af, representing a tropical rainforest climate. This implies high temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. Its proximity to the equator ensures a steamy tropical climate where temperatures barely fluctuate.
Throughout the year, the average high temperature varies subtly, peaking at 27.7°C (81.9°F) in
March and dropping to its lowest at 23.8°C (74.8°F) in
August. The low-temperature ranges from 26.7°C (80.1°F) in March to 22.8°C (73°F) in August. This minor temperature variation ensures a predominantly warm climate throughout the year.
Rains drench the tropical islands of Tengatangi frequently. The monthly average rainfall swings from a high of 155mm (6.1") in
January and March to a low of 29mm (1.14") in August. Months with significant rainfall days include January, March, and
December, all having over 22 days of rainfall. Meanwhile, August has the fewest rainy days, with rain falling on roughly ten days on average.
The sun graces this tropical paradise abundantly. The sunshine duration ranges from 5.7 hours per day in
June to 8.9 hours per day in
November. Sunlit days are the fewest in January and December, corresponding to the months with the highest rainfall.
The best time to visit Tengatangi
For travelers preferring warm temperatures and a relatively dry period, the best time is between
June and
September. During these months, rainfall drops to the lowest, with
May averaging 38mm (1.5") and
August just 29mm (1.14") of rain. Moreover, the lower number of rainy days ensures ample sunlit days, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about sudden showers. The UV index stays at around 6 units, suggesting moderate exposure level to harmful Ultraviolet rays.
The worst time to visit Tengatangi
From
January to
March and in
December, the weather stays stormy overlooking the
Cook Islands with the maximum rainfall. As a consequence, outdoor activities might be compromised due to frequent and heavy rainfalls. The relative humidity remains high too, enhancing the mugginess of the air that some travelers might find unpleasant.
Spring weather in Tengatangi
In
Tengatangi, spring months from
September to
November are characterized by declining rainfall and increasing temperatures. The rainfall goes from 30mm (1.18") in September, rises to 82mm (3.23") in
October then drops again to 74mm (2.91") in November. This period also marks the transition from cooler to warmer months as the average high temperatures hover from 24.2°C (75.6°F) in September to 25.5°C (77.9°F) in November.
Summer weather in Tengatangi
Although it bears a tropical climate,
Tengatangi eases a little in
December through
February, which is usually considered summer. High temperatures range from 26.5°C (79.7°F) in December, reach the peak at 27.7°C (81.9°F) in
March, and follow a minor dip to 27.3°C (81.1°F) in February. However, the island streets seem desolate as rain shadows the island heavily in these months with high average monthly rainfall of 153mm (6.02") in December, 155mm (6.1") in
January.
Autumn weather in Tengatangi
The tropical paradise approaches autumn from
March to
May, characterized by a slow drop in temperatures and decreased rainfall. March maintains a high temperature at 27.7°C (81.9°F), which drops to 26.3°C (79.3°F) by May. Rainfall also shows a decreasing trend from 155mm (6.1") in March to 38mm (1.5") by
June.
Winter weather in Tengatangi
June to
August are officially the winter months in
Tengatangi, marked by lowest temperatures and rainfall of the year. The high temperature dips to its lowest at 23.8°C (74.8°F) in August, while the monthly rainfall drops to its nadir with only 29mm (1.14") in August. The reduced rainfall corresponds with more sunlit days and fewer cloudy days, making it a preferable period for tourists.
Weather in January
Weather in February
Transitioning from
January to
February, residents observe only subtle fluctuations in
Tengatangi’s weather patterns. February tries to compete with the preceding month, featuring a high-temperature rise to 27.4°C (81.3°F).
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
Tengatangi moves from
February into
March, no significant deviations punctuate the prototypical tropical climate. The highest temperature in March hits 27.7°C (81.9°F), clearly indicating that the heat isn't ready to bid farewell.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April,
Tengatangi heralds some noticeable changes, waving goodbye to the consistency of the previous months. Dropping from the previous high in
March, April strikes a less heated pose with a high of 27.3°C (81.1°F). Balancing the slightly dimmed heat with a nearly comparable degree of humidity, the month provides an overall convivial environment.
Weather in April »Weather in May
As
May rolls in, it brings noticeable shifts in
Tengatangi’s climate, setting it apart from
April. With temperatures reaching a lower high of 26.3°C (79.3°F), the subtle chill in the air becomes more apparent. While the sun continues to shine with unrelenting intensity, the lower temperature and moderated wind speed dictate a more pleasant atmosphere.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Tengatangi marks the onset of relative coolness, with the mercury dipping even lower compared to
May. Topping off at 25°C (77°F), the weather leans increasingly towards milder temperatures. While sunlight continues to pour generously, the partially cloud-laden sky paints a picturesque backdrop.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July invites a further dip in
Tengatangi’s temperature, hitting a high of 24.5°C (76.1°F), signaling a continuous drift towards cooler climates. Though the stark difference in temperature might seem trivial, residents favor this time of the year as a break from the unyielding heat.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Continuing the trail of milder temperatures,
August reaches a high of 23.8°C (74.8°F) in
Tengatangi. This, coupled with the typically less rainfall, makes it a favorable month for outdoor activities. The sun casts a warm glow, while the soft gusts of wind ensure a pleasant ambiance.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September witnesses
Tengatangi slowly veering back to warmer weather with temperatures rising to a high of 24.2°C (75.6°F). Even though sunlight resumes dominance, the mild drop in wind speed ensures a fine balance. The stable weather makes way for clear, blue skies and a sun that shines persistently but not overwhelmingly.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Tengatangi sees the gradual resurgence of the island's typical warm climate, featuring a high of 24.5°C (76.1°F). Despite the increased degree of sunshine, the weather upholds a temperate balance. The cool breeze caresses the island, keeping the escalating heat in check.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November marks the true return of the tropical weather that
Tengatangi is known for, driving temperatures up to a high of 25.5°C (77.9°F). Punctuated by the robust sun and enhanced humidity, November is a classic tropical month.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The year culminates with
December offering temperatures soaring up to a high of 26.5°C (79.7°F). December in
Tengatangi is characterized by the twin forces of warmth and humidity, with factors such as wind speed and pressure contributing to the overall climate.
Weather in December »