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Contents
- The climate of Cairns
- The best time to visit Cairns
- The worst time to visit Cairns
- Spring weather in Cairns
- Summer weather in Cairns
- Autumn weather in Cairns
- Winter weather in Cairns
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Cairns
Cairns, a well-known city in Australia, is situated in the Northern part of Queensland. It falls under the Köppen climate classification of Am, characterizing a tropical monsoon climate. Unsurprisingly, this classification suggests regular and abundant rainfall, especially during the wet season. The climate parameters also reflect high temperatures throughout the year.
One can expect the highest average temperatures from 23.2°C (73.8°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F), almost always maintaining a warm-to-hot climate year-round. No significant fluctuations will be noticed throughout the year, owing to the steady tropical climate. The lower temperature range from 18°C (64.4°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F) indicates mild and pleasant conditions, especially during the cooler months.
In terms of rainfall, the tropical monsoon climate is apparent. The wet season shows a steep increase in rainfall, starting at a high of 162mm (6.38") in January and reducing to a year-low 9mm (0.35") in September. Conversely, the number of rainfall days ranges from a high of 22.4 days in January to a low of 7.2 days in September.
Wind speed, relative humidity, and sea temperatures are consistent throughout the year. Monthly average wind speeds vary from 11.2km/h (7mph) to 17.2km/h (10.7mph), with gusts reaching up to 24.5km/h (15.2mph). Relative humidity maintains a level from 74% to 81%, ensuring a moist and comfortable atmosphere. Sea temperatures can be anticipated to stay between 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F), perfect for water-based activities.
One can expect the highest average temperatures from 23.2°C (73.8°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F), almost always maintaining a warm-to-hot climate year-round. No significant fluctuations will be noticed throughout the year, owing to the steady tropical climate. The lower temperature range from 18°C (64.4°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F) indicates mild and pleasant conditions, especially during the cooler months.
In terms of rainfall, the tropical monsoon climate is apparent. The wet season shows a steep increase in rainfall, starting at a high of 162mm (6.38") in January and reducing to a year-low 9mm (0.35") in September. Conversely, the number of rainfall days ranges from a high of 22.4 days in January to a low of 7.2 days in September.
Wind speed, relative humidity, and sea temperatures are consistent throughout the year. Monthly average wind speeds vary from 11.2km/h (7mph) to 17.2km/h (10.7mph), with gusts reaching up to 24.5km/h (15.2mph). Relative humidity maintains a level from 74% to 81%, ensuring a moist and comfortable atmosphere. Sea temperatures can be anticipated to stay between 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F), perfect for water-based activities.
The best time to visit Cairns
Based on annual weather patterns, a visit to Cairns would be most enjoyable during the autumn and winter months from April to August. During this period, temperatures are mild, ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) to 27°C (80.6°F). Lower rain levels and fewer rainy days are noted, with substantial sunshine hours, making these months conducive to outdoor activities. With longer days extending from 11.1 daylight hours in June to 12 daylight hours by the end of August, giving ample time for sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Cairns
Given the climatic conditions, the least hospitable period to visit Cairns would be during the summer months from December to February. During this time, Cairns is subject to monsoon season, receiving the highest rainfall from 123mm (4.84") to 162mm (6.38"). These months also observe the most number of rainfall days. The temperatures reach their peak during these months, with the highest daily averages ranging from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F), which could be uncomfortable for some visitors.
Spring weather in Cairns
Between September and November, Cairns experiences Spring season. September is the driest month in Cairns with rainfall measuring just 9mm (0.35"), and only 7.2 days on average experiencing any rainfall. As the season progresses, temperature and rainfall start to increase steadily. By November, the average high temperature leaps to 28.5°C (83.3°F), and the rainfall triples to 26mm (1.02").
Summer weather in Cairns
The season of Summer in Cairns, spanning December through February, is characterized by high temperatures and intensive rainfall. Average daily high temperatures range from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F). This is the wettest period of the year with significant monthly rainfall amounts between 123mm (4.84") to 162mm (6.38") and a high number of rainy days.
Autumn weather in Cairns
The autumn months of March to May in Cairns are characterized by declining temperatures and rainfall. Rainfall decreases from 110mm (4.33") in March to 27mm (1.06") by May. From a high average temperature of28.3°C (82.9°F) in March, the temperatures drop to a more comfortable 24.9°C (76.8°F) by May.
Winter weather in Cairns
Cairns experiences winter from June to August with relatively dry and comfortable conditions. June and July have the lowest rainfall level with 17mm (0.67") to 18mm (0.71") and fewest rainy days with 11.5 days to 11.8 days. Throughout winter, the average high temperature drops to 23.2°C (73.8°F) in July, making it one of the cooler months.
Weather in January
January marks the start of the year with high temperatures and abundant rainfall in Cairns, Australia. There is a mix of hot, humid weather and rainy spells throughout the month. January presents the highest relative humidity with 80%, resulting in frequent afternoon shower events. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February carries on January's wet and humid conditions with relatively high temperatures in Cairns. It does witness a minor reduction in rainfall quantity compared to January, nonetheless, the weather remains typically tropical. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March sees a slight decline in temperatures and rainfall in comparison to February. As the month progresses, there is a gradual transition from the intense tropical monsoon climate towards a milder climate. The residual monsoonal influence continues to provide substantial rain, although the intensity decreases. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Cairns brings drier and cooler weather patterns. It ushers in the autumn season featuring breezy weather with a noticeable decline in sea temperature from 28.5°C (83.3°F) to 27.8°C (82°F). April exhibits a remarkable decrease in the average number of rainfall days. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May demonstrates a significant drop in temperature continuing till winter. The climate in Cairns during May is characterised by dry and sunny conditions with a remarkable decline in sea temperature from 27.8°C (82°F) to 26.2°C (79.2°F). Weather in May »
Weather in June
June introduces winter in Cairns with lower temperature averages compared to May. It is the coolest month and the freshness marks the winter solstice. It offers the city clear nights and balmy days, making it perfect for exploring the tropical beachfront. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July continues the winter scene with slightly higher temperatures than June. The city experiences a cool, dry season which makes it an attractive period for tourism. Outdoor activities and festivities often reach their peak during this month. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August brings a warmer tone to the weather and is known for its spectacular weather stability. The winter gradually steps towards spring with a slight rise in temperatures from July. This transition period is the driest with the least amount of rainfall days observed during the year. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September officially commences the spring season in Cairns offering pleasant weather conditions. It displays a beautiful balance between sunshine and rainfall. The humidity too elevates gradually and the tropical vibrancy returns to the city. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October weather in Cairns showcases typical spring attributes with increasing heat. The temperatures escalate more significantly than in September, paving the way for the upcoming summer. October days bask in the spring sun, also seeing a substantial rise in temperatures. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November is characterized by the rapid build-up towards the wet season. Rising humidity heralds the arrival of the spectacular storm season, bringing a sense of dramatic beauty to the landscape. However, tourists still find the weather in Cairns enjoyable for outdoor exploration. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December welcomes the wet season in Cairns making it the beginning of the summer period. It offers high temperatures, making it the start of the hot Australian summer. Frequent rain showers with high potential for thunderstorms are seen throughout the month. Weather in December »
Updated: Jan 26, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the rainiest month in Cairns?
The month with the most rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 22.4 days and typically aggregates up to 162mm (6.38") of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Cairns?
In Cairns, Australia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 167.3 days and collects up to 652mm (25.67") of precipitation.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Cairns?
The month with the warmest seawater is January, with an average sea temperature of 29.5°C (85.1°F).
What is the month with the highest UV index in Cairns?
January, February and November, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the warmest month in Cairns?
The warmest month in Cairns is February, with an average high-temperature of 29.4°C (84.9°F) and an average low-temperature of 24.3°C (75.7°F).
What is the most humid month in Cairns?
With an average relative humidity of 81%, March is the most humid month.
What is the month with the shortest days in Cairns?
With an average of 11h and 6min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Cairns.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Cairns?
The month with the least sunshine is June, with an average of 5.9h of sunshine.
What is the coldest month in Cairns?
July is the month when Cairns sees the average lowest temperatures, with a high of 23.2°C (73.8°F) and a low of 18.3°C (64.9°F).
What month is the sea coldest in Cairns?
The month with the coldest seawater is July, with an average sea temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F).
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Cairns?
July is the month with the lowest UV index in Cairns, Australia, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the least humid month in Cairns?
September and October, with an average relative humidity of 74%, are the least humid months.
What is the driest month in Cairns?
The month with the least rainfall in Cairns is September, when the rain falls for 7.2 days and typically collects 9mm (0.35") of precipitation.
What are the months with the most sunshine in Cairns?
October and November, with an average of 10.8h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.
When are the longest days in Cairns?
December has the longest days of the year in Cairns, with an average of 13h and 6min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Cairns?
Cairns does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). AEST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Cairns, Australia
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (29.4°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (23.2°C).
The months with the highest average low temperature are January and February (24.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is August (18°C).
Average pressure
Cairns, Australia
- Average pressure in January:
1007.6mbar - Average pressure in February:
1008mbar - Average pressure in March:
1009.8mbar - Average pressure in April:
1012.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1015mbar - Average pressure in June:
1016mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1016.8mbar - Average pressure in August:
1016.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1015.8mbar - Average pressure in October:
1014.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1011.7mbar - Average pressure in December:
1009.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1016.8mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is January (1007.6mbar).
Average wind speed
Cairns, Australia
- Average wind speed in January:
11.7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
11.2km/h - Average wind speed in March:
13.6km/h - Average wind speed in April:
16.4km/h - Average wind speed in May:
17.2km/h - Average wind speed in June:
16.6km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
17km/h - Average wind speed in August:
14.5km/h - Average wind speed in September:
13.6km/h - Average wind speed in October:
13.6km/h - Average wind speed in November:
12.4km/h - Average wind speed in December:
11.5km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is May (17.2km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is February (11.2km/h).
Average humidity
Cairns, Australia
The month with the highest relative humidity is March (81%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are September and October (74%).
Average rainfall
Cairns, Australia
- Average rainfall in January:
162mm - Average rainfall in February:
123mm - Average rainfall in March:
110mm - Average rainfall in April:
44mm - Average rainfall in May:
27mm - Average rainfall in June:
18mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (162mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (9mm).
Average rainfall days
Cairns, Australia
- Average rainfall days in January:
22.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
19.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
21.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
7.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12 days - Average rainfall days in December:
15.2 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (22.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (7.2 days).
Average sea temperature
Cairns, Australia
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is January (29.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is July (23.8°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Cairns, Australia
- Average daylight in January:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
11h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in November:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
13h and 1min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 13h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 11h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
10h and 2min
The months with the most sunshine are October and November (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 5h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Cairns, Australia
- Average sunshine days in January:
6.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
6.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
7.4 days - Average sunshine days in April:
12 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.9 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
14.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17 days - Average sunshine days in October:
18.6 days - Average sunshine days in November:
13 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (18.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (6.3 days).
Average UV index
Cairns, Australia
The months with the highest UV index are January, February and November (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is July (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Cairns, Australia
The months with the most cloud cover are January and March (Cloud cover 45).
The month with the least cloud cover is September (Cloud cover 28).
Average visibility
Cairns, Australia
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
