US Virgin Islands

Located in the Lesser Antilles, east of Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate, which means that the weather is hot throughout the year, with a period between December and March when it is slightly colder. As for the average temperature, it is around 27.6oC (82oF), with the hottest (and sultrier) months being May, June, July, August, September, and October. During this time, the highs are around 32oC (90oF). However, the breeze manages to somehow temper the heat and make it feel less intense.

Average temperatures (Charlotte Amalie)

Rainfall

The USVI has a relatively dry season that starts in January and lasts until around April (this particularly applies to St. Croix island), as well as a rainy season from May through December. During the rainy season, though, we often see decreased rainfall in the months of June and July.

As for the months with the least precipitation, these are February and March, with only 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain monthly. Annually, the nation receives approximately 1,000 mm (39.6 in) of rainfall, which is generally more intense on the northern parts of each of the three islands that make up the US Virgin Islands. Speaking of the northernmost islands, especially St. Thomas and St. John, the dry season is slightly prolonged compared to their southern sibling, as it starts in December and lasts till April. Nevertheless, it is not unlikely to see heavy rains in those islands in December.

The precipitation gradually increases from May onward, with a small stall in June and July and a recovery period between August and November.

Average precipitation (Charlotte Amalie)

Days of Rainfall

The months with the least rainy days are February, March, April, and June, with an average of 8 days of rain per month. As for the months that hold the scepters when it comes to the wettest months of the year, these would be August, September, and October, with 12, 13, and 14 days of rain, respectively. Annually, around 124 out of the 364 days experience short rain showers, downpours, or torrential rains.

Sunshine Hours

Overall, the weather in the USVI is pleasant and briefly interrupted by short-lived thunderstorms or showers that come with more force during the rainy season. This means that, for the most part, the US Virgin Islands have a nice sun shining for many hours of each day. On average, the islands have around 250 hours of sunshine monthly (about 8 hours daily).

Sunshine hours (Charlotte Amalie)

Sea Temperature

Expect warm seas irrespective of the time of the year you visit the US Virgin Islands. Indeed, the water temperature is around 26oC (79oF), which feels like having a bath for many northern travellers (and not only). The warmest sea, though, can be experienced in August, September, and October, when the water temperature is 29oC (84oF), followed closely by November, June, and July (28oC or 83oF).

Sea temperature (Charlotte Amalie) 

Hurricane Season

The hurricane season in the West Indies starts in June. However, the period between September and October, which is also the wettest season for the US Virgin Islands, is when one can expect an elevated risk of tropical storms and hurricanes hitting the islands. Things begin to calm down around November when the hurricane season officially ends.

It should be noted that all three USVI islands have done significant rebuilding after the last time they have been struck by a hurricane (in 2017, at the time of this writing). Today, the chance of one affecting the US Virgin Islands is quite slim. Nevertheless, the statistics indicate that the nation experiences the effects of a serious hurricane every around 8-9 years.

Weather in the USVI Per Season

• Spring – The wet season is still quite far away and the sea temperature is the coldest it can be at around 26-27oC (79-81oF). However, many visitors find it inviting enough for swimming, snorkelling, and other water sports. The same applies to the average temperature, which ranges in the 27oC (81oF) neighbourhood, making it warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. In any case, do bring a lightweight rain jacket with you, just in case. Plus, a light sweater may come in handy for those chillier evenings.
• Summer – This is when the wet season starts, but it won’t show its fierce face just yet. The few scattered rain showers are rather refreshing, considering the average temperature that flirts with a bit above 29oC (84.6oF). The sea temperature is around 28oC (82oF). Remember to bring a high-SPF sunscreen (mineral ingredients only) and reapply often as the sun is hot during this time of the year.
• Fall – It is the peak of the hurricane season and the season when the sea temperature is at its warmest, at 29oC (84oF). If you are planning a visit to the USVI in the fall for the fantastic travel deals available, kindly consider purchasing travel insurance, though. And, do pack some waterproof and breathable clothing and rain gear to fight humidity and not have to worry about getting wet.
• Winter - The USVI is going through its dry season and receives the largest influx of tourists thanks to its mild and pleasant weather. The hurricane season is over and the water temperature is around 26-27oC (79-81oF), while the days are becoming sunnier, creating the perfect foundation for magnificent beach experiences.