The climate of Roseau
Roseau, the capital city of
Dominica, is located in an area characterized by a tropical rainforest climate, as per the Köppen climate classification. The geographical location of Roseau on the Western coast of the island of Dominica translates to unique weather patterns, characterized by high humidity, frequent rainfall, and relatively constant temperatures throughout the year.
Temperatures in Roseau vary surprisingly little, with monthly average high temperatures fluctuating only between 29°C (84.2°F) and 31°C (87.8°F), and monthly average low temperatures ranging from 21°C (69.8°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). This minimal fluctuation makes the city's weather rather predictable, with no distinct hot or cold season. On the other hand, the rainfall pattern is more varied. The city receives significant rainfall throughout the year, with monthly averages ranging from 87mm (3.43") to 252mm (9.92"). The number of rainfall days tends to increase towards the end of the year, with up to 23 days of rain in
September.
Unique to the coastal city is the relatively consistent sea temperature, wavering from 26°C (78.8°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). Roseau also maintains a fairly high amount of daylight hours all year round, with a peak of 13 hours in
June and a low of 11.2 hours in
December. Sunshine hours mirror this pattern, remaining steady at approximately seven to eight hours daily. It's also worth noting that the UV index is typically very high throughout the year, peaking at 12 from
March to September.
The Best Time to Visit Roseau
Given the city's constant tropical temperatures, the best time to visit
Roseau would arguably be during the months with less rainfall. These would be from
February to
April, when average precipitation hovers around 87mm (3.43") to 93mm (3.66") and the number of rainy days is less compared to other months. During these months the sea temperature is pleasant too, between 26°C (78.8°F) and 27°C (80.6°F), making it ideal for water-based activities.
The Worst Time to Visit Roseau
Considering the extensive rainfall and high number of rainy days,
September to
November might be less ideal for travelers to visit
Roseau. These months experience the highest rainfall levels, with averages from 239mm (9.41") to 252mm (9.92"), and up to 23 rainy days in a month. Despite the warm tropical temperatures, such frequent rainfall could hamper outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the island's biodiversity.
Spring Weather in Roseau
Spring in
Roseau spans from
March to
May, bringing slight differences in weather conditions. While the temperatures remain consistent from 29°C (84.2°F) to 31°C (87.8°F) for highs and 21°C (69.8°F) to 23°C (73.4°F) for lows, March sees slightly less rainfall at 93mm (3.66") compared to 137mm (5.39") in May. The number of rainy days also increases from 15 in March to 17 in May.
Summer Weather in Roseau
From
June to
August,
Roseau experiences 'summer', although the tropical rainforest climate means temperatures are consistently warm year-round. Throughout these months, both the high temperatures and low temperatures remain at 31°C (87.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F) to 24°C (75.2°F) respectively. Rainfall is heavier during these months, with August receiving the highest rainfall at 246mm (9.69").
Autumn Weather in Roseau
Autumn extends from
September through
November, a period characterized by the highest levels of rainfall. September and November average the most rainy days, with 19 each month and 23 in
October. Despite the increased rainfall, temperatures remain stable; 31°C (87.8°F) for high and 23°C (73.4°F) for low, dropping slightly to 30°C (86°F) and 22°C (71.6°F) in November.
Winter Weather in Roseau
From
December to
February,
Roseau experiences its 'winter' months. The term 'winter' is used loosely due to the consistently warm tropical temperatures that persist throughout these months, coupled with significant rain. December registers the highest rainfall during this period at 176mm (6.93"), while
January and February are slightly 'drier' with 136mm (5.35") and 87mm (3.43") respectively. The temperatures throughout the winter months remain fairly stable, only varying from 29°C (84.2°F) to 30°C (86°F) for highs and from 21°C (69.8°F) to 22°C (71.6°F) for lows.
Weather in January
The start of the year in
Roseau,
Dominica, presents a balanced mix of rain and sun. Rainfall during this period reaches 136mm (5.35") across 18 days, making the city lush and enhancing the vivid hues of its natural beauty. Sunlight is often a generous companion throughout the day, granting ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February in
Roseau,
Dominica, ushers in a slight decrease in rainfall from
January, creating a calmer backdrop against the city's vibrant culture. Thanks to the tropical climate, cooling breezes help balance out the gradually warming temperatures.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March’s weather in
Roseau,
Dominica, begins to reflect the heart of the tropical climate, paving the way for longer days ahead. Transitioning from
February, the upward temperature trend introduces a warmth that’s a hallmark of the region.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Roseau,
Dominica, presents weather conditions similar to
March, ensuring continuity in the tropical experience. A noticeable increase in temperature further warms the city, offering sun-filled days and star-lit nights. The rain begins to make a more frequent appearance, nourishing the lush flora, even as daylight shines for approximately 12.5 hours.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May invites residents and tourists in
Roseau,
Dominica, to a distinct tropical weather experience. A significant increase in rainfall, reaching 137mm (5.39"), is easily noticeable and can be attributed to the advancing wet season. However, longer daylight hours and a consistent sea temperature ensure that the city’s vibrant life continues unabated.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings a mix of heat, rain, and sun to
Roseau,
Dominica, heralding the onset of summer. Weather conditions remain relatively constant compared to
May, offering a degree of predictability. A notable rise in rainfall makes the city's natural beauty even more lush and vibrant.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is a month of heavy rainfall in
Roseau,
Dominica, marking an annual high of 246mm (9.69"). Despite this, the city’s tropical beauty shines through particularly when the sun breaks through the clouds. The temperature remains comfortably warm, ensuring that outdoor activities continue with minimal disruption.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
Roseau,
Dominica,
August weather is highly characteristic of the wet season. Even amongst the emphasis on showers during this time, the days continue to be warm, maintaining a tropical atmosphere. Sunlight remains a consistent partner to the rain, with both elements working in harmony to ensure the city's vibrancy.
Weather in August »Weather in September
Weather conditions in
September in
Roseau,
Dominica, resemble those in
August, with rain and sunshine co-existing harmoniously. The month sees a slight decline in sea temperature, but the change is barely perceptible. Higher rainfall intensifies the greenery, lending a unique charm to the cityscape.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
Roseau,
Dominica,
October weather brings about a slight decrease in rainfall, marking the slow retreat of the wet season. The city stays bathed in sunlight for a substantial period of the day, ensuring leisure activities can go on largely uninterrupted.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November in
Roseau,
Dominica, offers a further slight reduction in rainfall, making way for the approaching dry season. Whilst co-existing with sun-drenched days, rainfall drops to 252mm (9.92"), a significant contrast with previous months.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Come
December, weather in
Roseau,
Dominica, transitions further towards the dry season, making it an attractive month for tourism. The decline in rainfall from
November is noticeable as the city gears up for festivities. Daylight hours decrease; however, sunlight faithfully brightens most of the day.
Weather in December »