The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands experience a pleasant and moderate 40 inches of rainfall annually, which is average when compared to the rest of the Caribbean. Temperatures are kind and gentle, ranging from 73 to 80 in January, and 84 to 89 in July (all in degrees Fahrenheit).

The U.S. Virgin Islands

The climate of the USVI is ideal, with perfect tropical temperatures and rainfall. January averages run from a low of 69 to a high of 84. July temperatures are not so different, with a low of 75 and a high of 89. (All temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit.) Rainfall averages 54.4 inches annually, with summer and spring as the rainy season and winter as the driest time.

Hurricanes

Some tourists may be deterred by the Virgin Islands' location in the main part of the hurricane belt. However, it's important to keep in mind that of all the types of natural disasters, hurricanes are the most predictable, second only to volcanic eruptions, which are not a concern on the Virgin Islands. Advances in meteorological technology allow forecasters to predict a hurricane's path and issue warnings to threatened areas far in advance of the storm making landfall. Therefore, visitors should have enough time to leave before a storm strikes.

Still, it's a good idea to keep an eye on tropical weather reports when planning a trip to the Caribbean during the hurricane season (which runs from June through November). Staying on top of current weather information can save you a huge headache. Imagine showing up to the airport for your flight only to learn its been canceled due to the threat of a hurricane!

The"Off-Season"

Most Caribbean islands experience what tourists consider optimal weather during the winter months, and the December-to-April period attracts resort lovers to this tourists' paradise. As the weather grows warmer, tourists head for less tropical locations, leaving the Caribbean in a tourism slump. This means that there are less crowds to contend with in the off-season.

While other Caribbean islands experience drastic changes in weather from winter to summer, the Virgin Islands have a stable climate thanks to the trade-winds. Temperatures vary only slightly from winter to summer, and winds keep the islands pleasant year round. This stability makes off-season travel an appealing option.