The Weather and Climate in Solomon Islands

The large tsunami that hit Solomon Islands in 2007 measured five meters (16.33 ft.) high. It was an extreme weather event caused by a powerful earthquake of 8.1 magnitude leaving 52 people dead and nearly 1,000 houses destroyed. The disaster took place at the end of a season that is feared to bring severe tropical depressions in the country, or the start of a dry season with southeast trade winds blowing at a speed of 30 knots (55 kilometers) per hour. Because of this constant wind blow, even the hottest weather becomes bearable throughout the islands. What is considered as a good season is between April and November when trade winds cool the generally hot climate, but for a traveler, the best time is July to September when temperature registers at 23-31°C (74-87°F).

Tourists are advised against travelling or visiting the country between November and March when it is rainier in the island nation and there is a possibility of the occurrence of cyclones, although these may take place in the Coral Sea and veer away from the country towards New Caledonia. During cool, wet days, especially in the Western Province, one can very well engage in walking or hiking activities but not very far away from home. The ocean temperature is usually 26.5°C as trade winds push cooler water or subsurface water to the surface of the ocean. The inland daytime temperature is 25 to 32°C (77 to 90°F), and night time temperature at 13°C to 15°C (59°F). In Honiara, Guadalcanal Island, the capital, the average temperature is 26.6°C (80°F), while its highest monthly average high temperature is 31°C (88°C), and lowest monthly average low temperature at 22°C (72°F).