Climate Overview
Solomon Islands has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -1°C in the coldest regions to highs of 33°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 71mm in drier regions to 393mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 269cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain cold, making Solomon Islands a country of sharp climate contrasts.
Temperature by Region
Temperature patterns across Solomon Islands vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southeast is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 33°C and an annual average of 25°C. Cooler conditions are found in the West, where winter lows drop to -1°C and an annual average of 2°C. This 23°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Solomon Islands they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 25°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Kirakira in the Makira-Ulawa Province averages 25°C annually, while Munda in the Western Province averages 2°C.
Precipitation by Region
Solomon Islands sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 71mm to 393mm per year. The South receives the most rainfall, at approximately 393mm annually. The Southeast is the driest, with around 71mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The South sees the most snowfall, with up to 269cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Travellers should pack rain gear when visiting wetter areas, while drier regions offer more favourable conditions throughout the year.