Weather in Tarawa

Stay up to date with the latest weather conditions in Tarawa. Below you will find current data, forecasts, and useful weather charts.

The climate in Tarawa, the capital of Kiribati, is characterised as tropical marine. This means that very warm and stable weather persists here all year round. The average annual temperature fluctuates insignificantly, remaining in a comfortable range of about 27-28°C. You will not encounter sharp temperature drops between day and night or between different months.

There are practically no distinct seasons in Tarawa as accustomed to in temperate latitudes. Instead, one can distinguish periods with slightly more or less rainfall. Although it rains throughout the year, data shows that the number of rainy days can vary. For example, in July there can be up to 27 rainy days, while in September and October their number drops to 12-13 days. At the same time, the total amount of precipitation in millimetres remains relatively low, which may indicate frequent, but not always heavy, tropical showers.

In general, the weather in Tarawa is predictable in its warmth and humidity. Travellers should expect typical tropical weather with a high probability of short-term rains, especially in certain months, and constant warmth, ideal for beach holidays and exploring the islands.

The temperature regime in Tarawa is distinguished by remarkable stability throughout the year, which is typical for the tropical climate of Kiribati. Average monthly temperatures fluctuate within a very narrow range, creating a feeling of eternal summer. In general, the air warms up from 26.6°C (the lowest average minimum temperature recorded in July) to 28.7°C (the highest average maximum temperature noted in January, September, October, and November). This means that there are practically no sharp cold snaps or sweltering heat here, and the weather remains comfortably warm all year round.

Speaking of minor fluctuations, the warmest months can be considered October and November, when the average temperature reaches 28.0°C, and daily highs hold steadily around 28.7°C. It is also very warm in January, August, and September with average temperatures around 27.9°C. It gets a little "cooler", if this word is applicable to the tropics, in March, April, and July, with an average temperature of 27.5°C. It is important to note that the difference between day and night temperatures in Tarawa is minimal: usually, it is about 1.5 degrees. This means that nights here are just as warm as the days, and you won't have to worry about extra warm clothes for evening walks.

In Tarawa, there is no customary division into summer and winter, as in temperate latitudes. The weather here is always summery, warm, and humid. Instead of changing seasons, we can talk about periods with slightly higher or slightly lower temperatures, but these differences are so small that they are practically not felt. Travellers can count on consistently high air temperatures, ideally suited for beach holidays, water sports, and island exploration at any time of the year. Constant warmth, gentle sun, and a warm ocean are the hallmark of Tarawa's climate.

In Tarawa, as in many tropical regions, precipitation falls throughout the year, however, its intensity and frequency can vary. There is no pronounced rainy season with multi-day downpours here; rather, one can speak of periods with more frequent or rarer short-term rainfall. Snow is, of course, completely uncharacteristic for Tarawa – all precipitation falls in the form of rain.

If we look at the amount of precipitation, the "wettest" months by volume of falling rain are January and March, when an average of 12 mm of precipitation is recorded. December also stands out with 9 mm. However, if judged by the number of rainy days, the picture is somewhat different. For example, in July there are as many as 27 days with precipitation, but the total amount is only 5 mm, which indicates very frequent, but likely quite light and short-lived rains. There are also many rainy days in December (23 days), June (21 days), January and March (20 days each).

The period with the least amount of precipitation falls on September and October – in these months only 2 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days is minimal (12 and 13 days respectively). August (3 mm, 15 rainy days) and November (3 mm, 14 rainy days) can also be called relatively dry. May also shows a low level of precipitation (4 mm) with 18 rainy days.

Thus, when planning a trip to Tarawa, it is worth being prepared for the possibility of rain in any month. However, it is most likely to encounter frequent, albeit not always strong, tropical showers in the period from December to March, as well as in June and July. September and October will offer the greatest number of sunny days with a minimal probability of precipitation.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Tarawa, remember that a typical tropical climate with year-round warmth awaits you. The average air temperature holds steadily around 27-28°C, so the basis of your wardrobe should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and light trousers will be the ideal choice. Don't forget sunscreen with high SPF, headwear (a wide-brimmed hat or cap), and quality sunglasses – the sun in Kiribati is very active throughout the year.

Despite the fact that the total amount of precipitation in Tarawa might seem small (for example, in September and October only 2 mm each), the number of days with precipitation can be significant, especially in the period from December to March, as well as in June and July, when there can be from 20 to 27 rainy days per month. This means frequent, but usually short-term tropical showers. Therefore, we recommend taking a light waterproof raincoat or a compact folding umbrella. Regarding footwear, preference should be given to comfortable sandals, flip-flops for the beach, and perhaps a pair of light quick-drying trainers or loafers for longer walks.

Given the consistently warm weather without sharp temperature drops between day and night or between seasons, you will not need warm jumpers, jackets, or other bulky clothing. The principle of layering is practically irrelevant here. It is also worth taking care of insect repellent, especially for the evening time. And, of course, don't forget swimwear to fully enjoy the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. The main thing is that your luggage should be light, and your clothes comfortable for the hot and humid climate.