The climate of La Foa
La Foa, a small town in
New Caledonia, is governed predominantly by a Tropical monsoon climate, classified as 'Am' according to the Köppen climate classification. Upon close inspection of climatic factors throughout the year, it becomes evident that the weather displays unique characteristics coinciding with the town's geographical position.
The variation of temperatures in La Foa remains fairly consistent throughout the year. The highest average temperatures are usually between 24°C (75.2°F) and 27.5°C (81.5°F), and the lowest averages fluctuating narrowly between 18.2°C (64.8°F) and 24.3°C (75.7°F). Rainfall exhibits a seesaw pattern, with the wettest period transpiring from
January to
March, showcasing levels from 85mm (3.35") to 132mm (5.2"). Conversely, the driest months fall between
July to
November, harboring rainfall levels ranging from 21mm (0.83") to 36mm (1.42").
An analysis of humidity levels reveals a relative stability, hovering between 74% and 80%. Sunshine hours vary from 9.5hrs to 9.7hrs with a marked decrease during the middle of the year, dropping to an average of 5.9hrs. The cloud cover also mirrors this pattern, with the lowest percentage of cloud in
September at 31% and the highest in March at 46%.
The wind speed does not display drastic changes, ranging from an annual low of 13.1km/h (8.1mph) to a peak at 15.9km/h (9.9mph). The overall pressure varies with a peak at 1016.7mb reached in July and
August.
The best time to visit La Foa
Optimal visiting conditions for tourists vary, but the most agreeable period in
La Foa would arguably be during the Southern Hemisphere's spring season between
September to
November. During this time, the average high temperatures range between 22.6°C (72.7°F) and 24.9°C (76.8°F), and the average lows from 18.6°C (65.5°F) to 21.5°C (70.7°F). This period also features the least rainfall, with average precipitation levels typically between 21mm (0.83") and 32mm (1.26").
Wind levels remain mild and the sunshine hours extend from 8 to 9.9hrs per day, making outdoor activities even more enjoyable. The cloud cover is also at its annual low during these months, ensuring plenty of clear, sunny days.
The worst time to visit La Foa
While any time of year provides its own version of
La Foa's beauty, the most challenging period to visit would be from
January to
March. These months see the highest average rainfall, peaking at 132mm (5.2") in March. The temperature during this time varies from 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), while the humidity reaches its yearly apex.
With a cloud cover at its maximum of 46%, fewer sunshine hours averaging at 8.2hrs in March, and strong winds reaching speeds of up to 16.8km/h (10.4mph) in
February, these months provide somewhat less favorable conditions for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in La Foa
Spring in
La Foa, spanning
September to
November, is characterized by mild temperatures ranging from 18.6°C (65.5°F) to 24.9°C (76.8°F). The region sees fewer days of rainfall during these months, with rainfall of 21mm (0.83") in September increasing slightly to 32mm (1.26") by November. Lower humidity levels between 74% and 76% and extended hours of sunshine provide comfortable weather conditions for outdoor activities. With the somewhat lesser cloud cover ranging from 31% in September to 39% in November, daylight hours increase from 12hrs to 13.1hrs per day, showcasing the delightful colors of a New Caledonian spring.
Summer weather in La Foa
Summer in
La Foa runs from
December to
February, and it is distinctively warm with average high temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F) and lows between 20.8°C (69.4°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F). The rainy season begins in December with rainfall peaking at 106mm (4.17") in February. This period marks the highest level of humidity, averaging around 79%. Despite the higher rainfall, the sunshine duration remains substantial at 9.5 to 9.7hrs per day under a cloud cover varying from 42% to 43%.
Autumn weather in La Foa
Autumn extends from
March to
May, showing a decrease in rainfall from the peak of 132mm (5.2") in March to 52mm (2.05") by May. The temperature stays within a balmy range of 20.8°C (69.4°F) to 27.1°C (80.8°F), ensuring continued pleasant weather. A daily average of 9 to 11.5hrs of sunshine persists, even as cloud cover increases towards May.
Winter weather in La Foa
Winter in
La Foa, from
June through
August, showcase some of the coolest average temperatures found in this area: high temperatures vary between 21.9°C (71.4°F) and 22.8°C (73°F) and lows between 18.2°C (64.8°F) and 19.9°C (67.8°F). The lowest rainfall for the year is recorded during this period, with levels dropping to 33mm (1.3") in August, the driest month of the year. Despite decreased hours of sunshine and increased cloud cover, the weather remains delightful, with plenty of clear skies and milder winds, making winter an appealing season for visitors.
Weather in January
January in
La Foa,
New Caledonia, is characterized by warm temperatures and moderate rainfall. Averages indicate temperatures peaking at 26.9°C (80.4°F) and rising no less than 23.8°C (74.8°F). Comparatively, the weather is similar to
December but with slightly higher rainfall.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As
February rolls in,
La Foa still faces relatively warm weather. With the highest registered temperature hitting 27.5°C (81.5°F) and the lowest settling at 24.3°C (75.7°F), February experiences the warmest weather of the year.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March brings a slight shift in climate with marginally cooler temperatures than
February. A highlight of the weather in this month is the considerable rainfall amounting to 132mm (5.2"), the heaviest for the year. As the hours of daylight shorten, the inherent charm of
La Foa's nightlife starts to unfold.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With the onset of
April,
La Foa experiences a noticeable dip in temperature and rainfall. The weather is significantly drier than
March with rain falling on only 19.1 days. Those with a preference for cooler climates may find April's weather more to their liking.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May continues the cooling trend seen in
April, transitioning
La Foa,
New Caledonia further into the cooler months. A monthly average pressure of 1015mb, the highest in the year, is recorded in May, marking stability in weather conditions.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June's weather expresses the heart of winter in
La Foa with cloud cover dropping to 38%. Uniquely, relative humidity and rainfall reach their yearly lows, setting the stage for both indoor and outdoor adventures. The overall scene of June, when compared to
May, appears marginally cooler yet drier.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, truly the peak of winter, brings the lowest temperatures. Unsurprisingly, average temperatures bottom out to between 18.4°C (65.1°F) and 21.9°C (71.4°F). When compared to
June, however, the difference in weather is marginal with relatively equivalent cloud cover, humidity, and sunshine hours.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August retains
July's cool temperatures, providing residents and visitors respite from typical tropical weather. With average temperatures fluctuating between 18.2°C (64.8°F) and 21.9°C (71.4°F), August is quite identical to July.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the beginning of a rise in temperature in
La Foa, while trending towards the hot season. At 31%, the city experiences the lowest cloud cover of the year, hinting at clear skies. This month stays pretty constant, barely showing a significant difference compared to
August.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October, temperatures in
La Foa continue to climb, introducing warm weather once again. The warm and pleasant weather attracts many to enjoy the sun-soaked landscapes and bustling city life. In comparison to
September, October demonstrates a rise in rainfall, but the city basks in the longest sunshine hours at 9 hours per day.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November’s weather decorates
La Foa in warm and inviting hues with temperatures ranging between 21.5°C (70.7°F) and 24.9°C (76.8°F). With longer daylight hours, November holds the allure of extended exploration times. Compared to
October, this month sees a slight increase in rainfall, contributing to the vibrant greenery.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
La Foa marks the arrival of the festive season with temperatures reaching up to 26.2°C (79.2°F) and dropping no lower than 23°C (73.4°F). While similar to
November, December has additional rainfall with a total of 47mm (1.85") across 15.8 days.
Weather in December »