Weather in Basseterre

Planning your day in Basseterre? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and useful charts, to make your journey through Saint Kitts and Nevis as comfortable as possible.

Basseterre, located in Saint Kitts and Nevis, boasts a typical tropical climate that delights travelers year-round. Temperatures here are remarkably stable: average values range from 24.8°C in February to 27.6°C in September. This means you can expect warm, comfortable weather practically anytime you visit, with minimal fluctuations between day and night temperatures.

Although there are no sharp seasonal changes in Basseterre, two main periods can be distinguished, differing mainly in rainfall and the number of rainy days. The first half of the year, especially from January to April, is characterized by less precipitation (1-2 mm) and fewer rainy days. The second half of the year, from July to November, brings slightly more rainfall, peaking at 5 mm in September, and a higher number of rainy days – up to 21 days in September. However, even during these months, rains are often short-lived and refreshing, without interfering with your holiday enjoyment.

Overall, the weather in Basseterre creates ideal conditions for beach holidays and island exploration throughout the year. Thanks to warm temperatures and a prevalence of sunny days, you can fully enjoy the beauty of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The slight increase in humidity and rain frequency in the second half of the year is usually not a serious obstacle for tourists, but it is worth considering when planning outdoor activities.

The temperature regime in Basseterre is remarkably stable throughout the year, making it attractive to visit in any season. The annual range of average temperatures is quite narrow: the coolest month, February, has an average temperature of about 24.8°C (with a minimum night temperature of 24.0°C and a maximum day temperature of 25.6°C), while the hottest month, September, warms up to an average of 27.6°C (with night temperatures around 26.6°C and daily peaks up to 28.6°C). This means that sharp temperature spikes are not observed here, and the weather remains comfortably warm all year round.

The so-called "summer" period, covering the months from June to September, is the warmest. Average daily temperatures at this time consistently exceed 27°C. For example, in June the average temperature is 27.1°C, and in August – 27.5°C, with daytime highs reaching 28.0°C - 28.4°C. This creates conditions for true tropical weather, ideal for beach holidays. "Winter" months, such as December, January, and February, bring only a slight coolness. Average temperatures during this period range from 24.8°C in February to 25.8°C in December. Even on the "coldest" nights, the temperature rarely drops below 24.0°C, ensuring very mild and pleasant conditions.

One of the characteristic features of Basseterre's climate is the insignificant temperature fluctuations between day and night. The difference between the average maximum day and average minimum night temperature within a single month is usually only 1.5 - 2.0°C. For instance, in January the range is from 24.4°C to 25.9°C, and in September – from 26.6°C to 28.6°C. Such a small amplitude means that evenings and nights remain almost as warm as the days, contributing to comfortable relaxation at any time of day without the need for extra warm clothing.

In Basseterre, precipitation occurs throughout the year, yet the total amount remains relatively small. Instead of clearly defined seasons of heavy rains and drought, there is rather a shift between periods with slightly more and slightly less rainfall and rainy days. It is important to note that even in the "wettest" months, the total amount of precipitation is low, implying mostly light and short-lived rains or drizzle rather than heavy tropical downpours.

The highest amount of rainfall in Basseterre falls in the period from July to November. September stands out as the wettest month, when an average of about 5 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days reaches 21. In October and November, 4 mm of precipitation falls with 19 and 18 rainy days respectively. In July and August, rainfall is about 3 mm, and the number of days with rain is 19 and 18. Despite the relatively high frequency, rains in these months are generally light and usually do not interfere with active recreation.

The period from January to April can be characterized as the driest of the year, although rains are not uncommon even at this time. In January, March, and April, only 1 mm of precipitation falls. March is the month with the fewest rainy days – an average of 11. In January and April, there are 15 and 12 such days respectively. February, May, June, and December occupy an intermediate position with 2 mm of precipitation and 14-15 rainy days. Thus, even in the "driest" months, brief showers can be expected.

Snow is absolutely uncharacteristic for Basseterre, given its tropical location and high year-round temperatures. All precipitation falls exclusively as rain. A key feature of the precipitation regime is its small amount even with a frequent number of days with precipitation, which makes the weather generally favorable for tourism at any time of year, without fear of prolonged or heavy rains.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Basseterre, remember that a warm tropical climate awaits you year-round. Average temperatures range from 24.8°C to 27.6°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, skirts, and light trousers will be the perfect choice. Don't forget a swimsuit, as beach holidays are one of the main pleasures in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Given the large number of sunny days, be sure to bring high SPF sunscreen, headwear (a hat or cap), and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes, such as sandals or light sneakers, will be useful for walking around the city and its surroundings.

Although there are no sharp seasonal changes in Basseterre, it is worth noting a slight increase in the number of rainy days from July to November, when up to 5 mm of precipitation per month can fall, and the number of rainy days reaches 21 in September. However, precipitation here is usually short-lived and not very abundant. Nevertheless, a light folding umbrella or a compact raincoat may prove useful, especially if you plan long walks or excursions during this period. In other months, especially from January to April, the probability of precipitation is minimal (about 1 mm), but even then, a short tropical shower is not excluded. The layering principle is not as relevant here due to consistently high temperatures, but a light cover-up or long-sleeved shirt may be useful in the evening or for sun protection.

Since the difference between day and night temperatures in Basseterre is minimal (usually no more than 1.5-2°C), you will not need much warm clothing. However, if you are sensitive to air-conditioned air in hotels or restaurants, a thin cardigan or stole may add comfort. In general, your luggage for a trip to Basseterre should be focused on heat and sun, with a small addition in case of light tropical rain, especially if your trip falls in the second half of the year.