Anguilla Weather Guide: Sun, Trade Winds, and Microclimates

Anguilla is unique among its Caribbean neighbors for its remarkably flat, low-lying topography. Unlike mountainous islands like St. Kitts or Montserrat, Anguilla lacks the elevation to trap passing rain clouds. This geographical trait defines its climate: it is one of the sunniest and driest islands in the Leeward chain, characterized by a tropical maritime climate that feels more like a desert-by-the-sea than a lush rainforest.

The Daily Rhythm: Trade Wind Moderation

The climate in Anguilla follows a predictable daily cycle driven by the Northeast Trade Winds.

• Morning: The day typically begins with clear, bright skies and a gentle breeze. Ocean temperatures remain stable, providing a mild start even in summer.
• Midday: As the sun peaks, temperatures reach their daily highs (typically 82°F to 88°F). However, the island's lack of mountains allows the trade winds to sweep across the entire landmass, preventing the oppressive, stagnant heat found on larger islands.
• Afternoon: Brief, isolated showers—known locally as "liquid sunshine"—may appear. These are usually fast-moving and clear within minutes, leaving the air feeling refreshed rather than humid.
• Evening: Nightfall brings a pleasant drop in temperature, with lows ranging from 73°F in winter to 78°F in summer. The constant breeze makes evening outdoor dining a staple of local life.

Seasonal Trends

Anguilla’s seasons are defined more by rainfall and wind patterns than by temperature swings.

The Dry Season (December – April)

This is the peak of the visitor season. It is marked by the "Christmas Winds," a period of stronger, steady breezes that reach their height in December and January. These winds keep the humidity low and the air cool. February and March are historically the driest months, with deep blue skies and high visibility.

The Transition Season (May – July)

As the trade winds soften, the island feels warmer. May often sees a brief "spring peak" of rainfall before a dry June. These months offer the warmest sea temperatures for swimming (around 80°F–83°F) and are characterized by long, languid days with maximum sun exposure.

The Wet & Hurricane Season (August – November)

September and October are the wettest and calmest months. Without the trade winds, the air can feel "heavy" or oppressive due to higher humidity. While this is hurricane season, Anguilla’s small size makes direct hits rare. When it does rain, it is often in intense bursts that locals welcome for replenishing the cisterns that provide the island's fresh water.

Microclimates and Variations

Despite being only 16 miles long, Anguilla has subtle weather variations:

• North vs. South Coast: The northern coast (Atlantic side) is significantly breezier and the surf is more active. The southern coast (Caribbean side), shielded by the island’s core, features calmer waters and slightly higher perceived temperatures due to less wind.
• Offshore Cays: Small cays like Prickly Pear or Sandy Island often remain bone-dry even when the main island is experiencing a passing shower, as they are too small to influence cloud formation at all.

Local Context and Adaptation

Because Anguilla has no natural rivers or significant groundwater, the weather is intrinsically linked to survival. Locals are master "rain harvesters," with traditional architecture featuring white-painted roofs designed to catch every drop of rainwater and channel it into underground cisterns.

Historically, the weather governed the island’s primary industries: salt picking and boat building. The dry season was essential for salt ponds (like the one in Sandy Ground) to evaporate, while the trade winds fueled the island’s legendary sailing culture. Today, the Anguilla Regatta in May celebrates this heritage, timing the races to capitalize on the reliable transition-season winds.

Unique Weather Phenomena

• The Saharan Dust: Periodically (often June through August), fine dust from the Saharan desert is carried across the Atlantic. This creates a hazy sky and spectacular, fiery red sunsets, though it can slightly reduce visibility.
• Waterspouts: During the wetter months, it is not uncommon to see small waterspouts forming over the channel between Anguilla and St. Martin. These are rarely dangerous to the mainland but are a spectacular sight from the shore.