What weather can you expect?

The British Virgin Islands experience a great tropical marine climate, thanks to the balancing effect of trade winds. In simple terms, you can expect consistently warm temperatures in the British Virgin Islands, clear changes between rainy and dry seasons, and the refreshing coolness from the breezes.

Temperature: Ranges from 77°F (25°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer, with the surrounding sea preventing extremes.

Rainfall: A wet season from June to November, while December to May is typically drier. Annual rainfall averages around 45 inches.

Humidity: Consistently stays between 70% and 90%, but the presence of trade winds makes it feel more comfortable.

Hurricanes: Located in the hurricane belt, Tortola has advanced warning systems. It's vital to monitor forecasts during hurricane season.

Weather Overview by Month:

The weather in the Virgin Islands changes quite a bit over the year. We've broken it down month by month to give you a clear picture of humidity, rainfall, and how warm the sea is. This can help you decide the best time to visit or what activities to do. Here's a general idea of what the weather's like:

January - March (Dry Season):

• Humidity: Lower than the rest of the year, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Rainfall: These are among the driest months, with rainfall averaging about 2 inches per month.
• Sea Temperature: The ocean tends to be a bit cooler, averaging around 77°F (25°C), but it's still suitable for swimming.

April - June (Pre-Hurricane Season):

• Humidity: Begins to rise but remains relatively comfortable.
• Rainfall: Incremental increase in rainfall, averaging 2.5 to 3 inches per month.
• Sea Temperature: Warms up to a delightful 80°F (27°C) making it great for snorkeling and other water activities.

July - August (Early Hurricane Season):

• Humidity: Can be quite high, especially in August.
• Rainfall: Showers become more frequent, but they're often brief.
• Sea Temperature: Peaks around 82°F (28°C), perfect for beachgoers.

September - November (Peak Hurricane Season):

• Humidity: Remains high, potentially causing some discomfort.
• Rainfall: September and October see the highest rainfall, averaging around 5-6 inches per month.
• Sea Temperature: Remains warm, around 81°F (27°C) but be cautious of potential rough seas during stormy weather.

December (Transition Month):

• Humidity: Starts to decrease, signaling the beginning of the dry season.
• Rainfall: Reduces significantly from the peak hurricane season.
• Sea Temperature: Begins its gradual cooling but remains pleasant for swimming.

Remember, while these details give a general overview, weather can be unpredictable. Always check short-term forecasts closer to your travel dates.

Time_Laps Sunset

Enjoy a stunning time-lapse of a sunset captured from Pelican Peak Villa in Tortola. Video is made in October 2023.

(Video Credits: Scott & Hanna) 

The Current Weather

This is the current weather provided by Meteoblue. Use the menu on the widget to navigate through wind, clouds, rain, sunshine, etc.

 

Sunshine: Tortola boasts an average of 8 to 9 hours of sunshine daily throughout the year, making sun protection essential no matter when you visit. 

In the Caribbean, that sun is no joke! Here's the quick rundown:

• UV Alert: The sun's rays here are stronger, so sunburn can happen faster than you think.
• Prime Sun Time: Between 10 am and 4 pm, the sun's at its fiercest. Consider chilling in the shade.
• Sunscreen is a Must: Go for SPF 30 or higher and reapply, especially after a swim.
• Stay Hydrated: It's hot, so keep that water bottle close.
• Dress Smart: Sunglasses, hats, and light cover-ups aren’t just stylish—they protect you.
• Medication Heads Up: Some meds can make you sun-sensitive. If unsure, check with your doc.

Remember, it's all about balancing fun in the sun with some smart choices!

Hurricane Season:

The hurricane season in the Caribbean typically runs from June 1st to November 30th. While hurricanes are not guaranteed during this period, it's the time of year when they're most likely to occur. If you're considering visiting Tortola during these months:

• Stay informed: Regularly check weather forecasts from reputable sources.
• We highly recommend obtaining travel insurance: It can offer peace of mind and cover unexpected trip cancellations or disruptions. Please click here for more information.
• Be flexible: Sometimes, it might be necessary to change plans or dates based on weather predictions.