Bid farewell to sweltering hot nights and aridity, and welcome humidity and rain as Mauritius finally embraces the winter season!
The Mauritian winter, spanning from May to October, differs greatly from the bone-chilling cold some expats might have experienced. Heating and thick coats are usually unnecessary. In fact, Mauritians eagerly embrace this time of year as temperatures moderately drop, ranging from 5 to 10 degrees lower than during summer.
Winter forecast
The latest report from the Mauritius Meteorological Services predicts persistent trade winds originating from high-pressure systems crossing the southern Indian Ocean from west to east this winter. Expect cooler temperatures, particularly between June and September, with May and October serving as transitions.
A rainy winter
Rainfall levels close to normal are expected during the first half of the season, followed by slightly above-average rainfall in the second half. We should be expecting around 675 mm of rain overall this winter which is 110% the long-term average. The areas most prone to concentrated precipitation are primarily the Central Plateau, East, and South of the island. Time to dust off the old raincoats!
Usual temperatures
In terms of temperatures, the forecast suggests that daytime maximum and nighttime minimum temperatures will remain close to normal. In the mountainous regions, expect temperatures to range from 22 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day, while coastal areas will experience temperatures between 26 and 29 degrees Celsius. During the night, temperatures will vary between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius in the central plateau and between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius along the coast. However, occasional cooler nights may occur due to the influence of anticyclones.
Dealing with the humidity
If you live in the Central Plateau region, coping with humidity during winter will prove challenging. To alleviate its effects, we recommend maintaining proper ventilation inside your home by opening windows during the coolest times of the day. Additionally, using fans or air conditioners equipped with dehumidifying functions can help reduce ambient humidity.
To prevent mold formation, it is essential to ensure adequate room ventilation and avoid moisture accumulation. Consider using dehumidifiers or placing moisture-absorbing bags in closets and enclosed spaces. Furthermore, we advise against storing your photos, papers, and books in a single location, as this increases the risk of damage. Lastly, inspect your home's insulation, as sufficient insulation of walls, roofs, and windows can assist in minimizing condensation and moisture buildup indoors, thus preventing mold growth on surfaces.
