Climate and Weather

Cairns has a Tropical climate, with generally hot and humid Summers and milder dryer Winters. The average annual rainfall is 1992mm falling on an average 154 days. The majority of Cairn's rainfall occurs during summer between January and March. The monsoon trough is close to Cairns from December to March bringing with it warm to hot, humid conditions and the possibility of thunderstorms and tropical cyclones. Thunderstorms regularly develop over the ranges inland from Cairns, but seldom move off the ranges across the City.

The months from May to October are dominated by the sub-tropical ridge, with Cairns under the influence of the south east trade stream. These moist onshore winds often produce diurnal showers, peaking overnight and morning and weakening during the afternoon.

Autumn (March – May)
It is still very warm in autumn, both day and night, with daily temperatures averaging between 21.5 - 29°C (70.7 - 84.2°F). The rain subsides from April, however the weather can be windy until August. Prevailing south easterly winds continue until approx. October.

Winter (June – August)
Winter in Cairns brings slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it the peak tourist season. Average daily temperatures range from 17.5 - 26°C (63.5 - 78.8°F) and there is low rainfall.