Weather in Katherine

Planning your day in the city of Katherine? Here you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, including detailed charts and a forecast for the near future to ensure a comfortable trip.

The climate in the city of Katherine can be characterised as typically tropical, with high temperatures throughout the year. The weather here is clearly divided into two main periods, which is typical for the northern part of Australia: the wet and dry seasons. Travellers should be prepared for warmth regardless of the month of their visit, as even during the "coldest" time of the year, the average air temperature rarely drops below 23°C.

A distinct wet season lasts from November to March. During this period, especially in January and February, the highest number of rainy days is observed (up to 23 days per month), and the air becomes humid and sultry. Conversely, from May to September, the dry season sets in in Katherine. This time is distinguished by a complete absence of precipitation — from May to August rain practically does not fall, and the sky remains clear.

The middle of the year is considered the most favourable time to visit. In June and July, the exhausting heat recedes: during the day the air warms up to 30°C, however, thanks to low humidity and cool nights (around 16-17°C), the average temperature stays at a comfortable level of 23-24°C. By October, the heat returns with renewed vigour, and before the start of the rainy season, daily maximums often reach 37°C.

The temperature regime in Katherine is characterised by a consistently hot climate throughout the year, typical of Australia's tropical zone. The highest figures are recorded not at the height of the calendar summer, but on the eve of the rainy season — in October and November. During this period, the average daily maximum reaches peak values around 37.5°C, creating intense heat. The summer months (from December to February) also remain very hot with average temperatures around 28–29°C, however, high humidity at this time can intensify the sensation of warmth.

The nominal "winter", which lasts from June to August, brings relative coolness and is considered the most comfortable time to visit. The coldest month is July with an average figure of 23.0°C. However, even at this time of year, the concept of cold here is quite relative: during the day the air steadily warms up to 30°C, which allows one to enjoy sunny weather without the extreme overheating characteristic of the spring months.

An important feature of the local climate is the diurnal temperature fluctuations, which are most noticeable in the dry winter season. If during the day in July the thermometer rises to 30°C, then at night it can drop to a brisk 16.1°C, which requires a light jacket for evening walks. At the same time, in the summer period (January–February), the difference between day and night becomes less pronounced: night temperatures rarely drop below 24–25°C, maintaining an atmosphere of tropical sultriness around the clock.

In Katherine, precipitation patterns have a distinct seasonality, typical of the tropical north of Australia. The year here is clearly divided into wet and dry periods. Due to consistently high temperatures throughout the year, precipitation falls exclusively as rain, and snow in this region is an impossible phenomenon.

The wet season falls on the Australian summer and early autumn. The rainiest month in terms of precipitation frequency is January, when about 23 days with precipitation are recorded. A high probability of rain also persists in December (15 days) and February (19 days). At this time, travellers should be prepared for frequent but warm rains.

The dry season, which lasts from May to August, is the complete opposite of summer. During this period, including June and July, rains stop almost completely: statistics show 0 mm of precipitation and an absence of rainy days. This is the ideal time for visiting national parks and nature walks, as the sky remains clear and the weather predictable.

A trip to Katherine requires careful wardrobe selection, as the climate here is hot and tropical. The basis of your luggage should be light, loose clothing made from natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which will help comfortably endure high daytime temperatures, often exceeding 30°C. Be sure to take care of reliable sun protection: take a wide-brimmed hat, high-quality sunglasses, and cream with a high protection factor (SPF 50+), as the Australian sun is very active at any time of year.

The choice of additional items depends on the season. If you are planning a trip during the wet season (from November to March), when the number of rainy days is high, grab a light raincoat or waterproof poncho, as well as quick-drying shoes. In the dry season (from May to September), precipitation is unlikely, but nights become cooler, and the temperature can drop to 16-17°C. For evening walks at this time of year, the principle of layering will come in handy: put a light jacket, jumper, or fleece sweater in your suitcase.

Since the region is famous for its nature parks and gorges, you will need comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking or trekking. Also, do not forget swimwear to enjoy relaxing by the pools or in natural springs. Given the heat, a useful accessory will be a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during excursions.