Saint Lucia has a tropical climate, but it features variations depending on altitude, location, and season. Here’s a breakdown of the types of climate found in Saint Lucia:
1. Tropical Rainforest Climate (Af – Köppen Classification)
- Found in most of the island, especially coastal and lowland areas
- Hot and humid year-round
- Average temperatures: 25–30°C (77–86°F)
- Rainfall is frequent but often short-lived
2. Tropical Monsoon/Seasonal Climate
- Characterized by wet and dry seasons
- Dry season (Lent): December to May
- Wet season (rainy/hurricane season): June to November
- Short dry spells can occur even during the rainy season
3. Cooler Highland Climate
- Found in elevated interior regions like Mount Gimie and forested hills
- Cooler temperatures due to altitude
- More cloud cover, mist, and rainfall
Rainfall Patterns:
- Heavier rain in the south and interior (e.g., Soufrière)
- Northern coast (e.g., Gros Islet) is slightly drier
- Annual rainfall ranges from 1,500 mm (59 in) on the coast to over 3,500 mm (138 in) in the mountains
Hurricanes & Storms:
- Hurricane season: June to November
- Saint Lucia is occasionally affected by tropical storms and hurricanes, though direct hits are rare
Quick Climate Summary:
| Season | Months | Weather Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | December – May | Sunny, less humid, popular for tourism |
| Wet | June – November | More rain, humid, risk of storms |
| Cooler zones | Year-round (mountains) | Cooler temperatures and more rainfall |
