Climate and monthly weather forecast
French Southern and Antarctic Lands

Covering an expansive southern oceanic region, the French Southern and Antarctic Lands comprise several islands and archipelagos scattered around the Antarctic continent. Its proximity to the Antarctic Circle and isolation from any major landmass render the region's climate cool and highly variable. This zone is designated as a Cfc or subpolar oceanic climate under the Köppen climate classification. In general, temperatures here remain rather stable throughout the year, with an average ranging from 2°C (35.6°F) to 10°C (50°F). Precipitation occurs in the form of both rain and snow, although rainfall is more prevalent in the summer months. Strong westerly winds dominate the year, and due to its oceanic nature, the weather can change rapidly, from bright sunshine to fog, rain, or snow within just a few hours.

Given the relative stability of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands' climate, the period from December to February offers a milder environment conducive to exploration. This corresponds to the Southern Hemisphere's summer, where the average temperature hovers around 10°C (50°F). These months see the longest days of the year, with extended daylight hours providing ample opportunity for wildlife spotting and exploration. During this time, the breeding season for seabirds and seals also commences, making it an excellent period for wildlife enthusiasts.

The months from May to September, equivalent to the Southern Hemisphere's winter, are less favorable for a visit to the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. Average temperatures during this period typically fall to 2°C (35.6°F). Furthermore, daylight hours are drastically reduced, with shorter days limiting sightseeing opportunities. Additionally, winter storms become more frequent, leading to rougher seas and making navigation to and around the islands more challenging.

Spring in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, occurring from September to November, is characterized by a gradual increase in temperatures from the colder winter months. Average temperatures during this period generally range from 4°C (39.2°F) to 8°C (46.4°F). Spring also marks the beginning of the breeding season for some wildlife species, making it an interesting period for animal observation. Weather conditions remain relatively unpredictable, with regular bouts of rain and strong winds.

The summer months in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands span from December to February, with temperatures averaging 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is common during this period but is usually light and brief. Despite being the warmest part of the year, summer in this region can still be chilly, with frequent winds and occasional foggy conditions. Nevertheless, it offers the most favorable conditions for exploration and wildlife spotting.

The transition from summer to winter, known as autumn, occurs from March to May in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. During these months, temperatures begin to drop, averaging between 6°C (42.8°F) and 4°C (39.2°F). The weather remains unpredictable, with persistent westerly winds, interspersed rainfall, and potential snow showers. The decrease in daylight hours begins in these months, leading to progressively shorter days.

Winter, running from June to August, brings the coldest and harshest weather to the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. During this time, temperatures average around 2°C (35.6°F) and can drop even lower, particularly during the night. Precipitation becomes less frequent but can occur as either rain or snow, depending on the specific conditions. Daylight hours are significantly reduced, with long nights and short days, and winter storms can make sea conditions more challenging.

January is situated at the height of summer in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, marking one of the warmest periods of the year for this oceanic region. During this month, the average temperature is around 10°C (50°F), providing comparatively milder conditions than other months. Weather in January »

February continues the trend of comparatively mild temperatures in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, remaining within the southern hemisphere's summer period. Average temperatures in February closely resemble those in January, hovering around 10°C (50°F). Weather in February »

As the southern hemisphere transitions from summer to autumn, March in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands witnesses a shift in weather conditions. The average temperature begins to drop, ranging between 8°C (46.4°F) and 6°C (42.8°F), which marks the beginning of the region's gradual descent into cooler conditions. In the Kerguelen Islands, one of the most notable parts of the territory, the average temperature in March follows the broader trend, settling in the same range of 8°C (46.4°F) to 6°C (42.8°F). Weather in March »

April ushers in more pronounced autumnal conditions in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. Temperatures continue their downward trajectory with averages ranging from 6°C (42.8°F) to 4°C (39.2°F). The chill of the approaching winter becomes increasingly perceptible, making this month noticeably cooler than March. The Kerguelen Islands, a significant part of this territory, follow the same trend, with temperatures aligning with the overall average. Weather in April »

May marks the deeper onset of autumn in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. As the region draws closer to winter, temperatures continue to fall, with averages ranging from 4°C (39.2°F) to 2°C (35.6°F). The air grows colder, and the environment becomes increasingly harsh when compared to the slightly warmer conditions in April. The weather pattern on the Kerguelen Islands, a significant part of this territory, continues to reflect the overall climate of the region. Weather in May »

June in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands represents the threshold of winter, with the region enveloped in the harshest of its weather conditions. Average temperatures during this month drop below freezing, typically ranging between 0°C (32°F) and -2°C (28.4°F). Weather in June »

July marks the peak of winter in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, with the region experiencing some of its coldest weather. Average temperatures often fall below 0°C (32°F), typically ranging from -2°C (28.4°F) to -4°C (24.8°F), resulting in a chilly environment that is significantly colder than June. The Kerguelen Islands, an integral part of the territory, continue to echo the broader climate pattern of the region. Weather in July »

In August, the French Southern and Antarctic Lands remain within the grip of winter, albeit with a slight easing of conditions as the region edges closer to spring. Average temperatures continue to be low, generally ranging from -1°C (30.2°F) to 1°C (33.8°F). Weather in August »

September in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands marks the commencement of spring, as the region begins to emerge from the cold grip of winter. Average temperatures gradually rise, typically ranging from 1°C (33.8°F) to 3°C (37.4°F). Weather in September »

In October, the French Southern and Antarctic Lands continue their journey into spring, with temperatures steadily climbing. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37.4°F) to 5°C (41°F), indicating a clear warming trend when compared to the cooler conditions of September. The Kerguelen Islands, a significant part of the territory, mirror this trend, experiencing similar temperatures. Weather in October »

November in the French Southern and Antarctic Lands marks a deepening of the spring season, as temperatures continue their upward trajectory. Average temperatures during this month range from 5°C (41°F) to 7°C (44.6°F), providing a milder climate in comparison to the conditions experienced in October. The Kerguelen Islands, a substantial portion of this territory, display the same pattern of increasing temperatures. Weather in November »

In December, the French Southern and Antarctic Lands begin their transition into the summer season, as temperatures reach their highest levels for the year. Average temperatures during this month fluctuate between 7°C (44.6°F) and 9°C (48.2°F), marking a clear increase from the milder conditions experienced in November. The Kerguelen Islands, an important part of this territory, follow this overall trend. Weather in December »