Andaman Weather Guide: Tropical Seasons & Climate Insights

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, are defined by a maritime tropical climate. Positioned between 6° and 14° North latitude, these islands do not experience the extreme temperature swings found on the Indian mainland. Instead, they maintain a consistent warmth throughout the year, governed by the rhythm of the monsoons and constant sea breezes.

The Daily Rhythm

A typical day in the Andamans follows a predictable tropical pattern. Mornings often begin with high humidity (reaching up to 80-90%) and calm conditions. As the sun rises, the land heats up faster than the surrounding ocean, triggering a sea breeze that typically picks up by mid-morning. This breeze is the primary mitigating factor for the heat, making the 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (90°F) afternoon temperatures feel manageable rather than oppressive. Rainfall, when it occurs outside the peak monsoon, often comes in short, intense bursts followed by immediate sunshine.

Seasonal Trends

While the islands are warm year-round, locals distinguish between three main climatic phases:

• The Dry Summer (March to May): This is the hottest period of the year. While temperatures rarely exceed 34°C (93°F), the humidity levels make it feel significantly warmer. The sea is exceptionally calm during these months, and underwater visibility is at its peak. This is the transition period before the Southwest Monsoon arrives.
• The Southwest Monsoon (June to September): The islands experience their heaviest rainfall during this window. Unlike the mainland, the monsoons here are characterized by strong winds and rough seas. Heavy, overcast skies dominate, and the archipelago receives the bulk of its 3,000mm annual precipitation. This season regenerates the island’s expansive rainforests, which cover nearly 86% of the landmass.
• The Post-Monsoon and "Winter" (October to February): This is the most temperate phase. The Northeast Monsoon brings occasional light showers in October and November, but by December, the weather settles into a "cool" period. Temperatures dip to a minimum of 22°C (72°F) at night, and the humidity drops, providing the most comfortable conditions for residents and visitors alike.

Microclimates and Regional Variations

The sheer size of the archipelago—spanning over 800 kilometers from north to south—results in subtle microclimates.

• Elevated Terrains: Regions like Mount Harriet and Saddle Peak (the highest point) are noticeably cooler and mistier than the coastal plains. These altitudes trap moisture, supporting dense evergreen forests that maintain their own internal humidity levels.
• Coastal vs. Inland: The smaller, flat islands like Havelock or Neil are more susceptible to the direct cooling effects of the sea breeze. In contrast, the interior of the larger islands (North and Middle Andaman) can feel more stagnant and humid due to the lack of wind penetration through the dense canopy.

Historical Context and Local Adaptation

Historically, the Andaman weather has been a force to be reckoned with. The islands lie in a high-activity zone for tropical cyclones, particularly between April and December. Locals have adapted by building structures that can withstand high-velocity winds and by relying on traditional knowledge to predict sea conditions.

Life in the Andamans is dictated by the sea. When the monsoons turn the Bay of Bengal rough, the inter-island ferry system—the lifeline of the region—often adjusts or pauses. Locals view the monsoon not merely as a rainy season, but as a period of "biological rejuvenation" where the groundwater lenses (crucial for island freshwater) are replenished.

Ocean Temperatures and the "Feel" Factor

The Andaman Sea remains consistently warm, hovering between 28°C (82°F) and 30°C (86°F) year-round. This warmth contributes to a "sticky" feel to the air, common in maritime environments. Even during the cooler months, the perceived temperature (heat index) remains high. The air is rarely "crisp" in the way a continental winter is; instead, it feels soft, moist, and salt-laden, a constant reminder of the ocean's proximity.