St Kitts and Nevis Meteorological Forecast

This detailed weather forecast pertains to the Leeward and British Virgin Islands for a 24-hour period commencing on March 28, 2025, and concluding at 8 AM on March 29, 2025. The forecast highlights a transition from relatively calm conditions to a period of increased wind and a higher likelihood of showers, particularly during the night and early morning hours. This shift is attributed to a tightening pressure gradient, which essentially means that the difference in air pressure between two areas is increasing, leading to stronger winds as air rushes from the high-pressure area to the low-pressure area. The forecast provides specific details on temperature, wind speed, sea conditions, and the chance of precipitation, offering crucial information for residents and visitors, especially those involved in maritime activities.

The daytime forecast for March 28th predicts partly cloudy skies with a slight 20% chance of showers. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 30°C (86°F), suggesting warm and relatively dry conditions. While the possibility of showers exists, it’s considered low, indicating that most of the day should remain dry. This makes for generally pleasant conditions for outdoor activities, though it’s always prudent to be prepared for the possibility of brief showers. The winds are anticipated to be generally easterly, blowing from east to west, at speeds ranging from 16 to 29 km/h (10 to 18 mph). These wind speeds are moderate and should not pose significant disruption, although they may create choppy conditions for smaller vessels.

As the day progresses and evening approaches, the forecast indicates a shift towards more unsettled conditions. While the initial part of the night might remain partly cloudy, the chance of showers increases to 40%, categorized as a moderate probability. This higher chance of precipitation is primarily anticipated in the pre-dawn hours of March 29th, suggesting that the most likely time for showers will be before sunrise. This shift towards wetter conditions is directly linked to the aforementioned tightening pressure gradient, which is expected to accelerate wind flow over the islands.

The increasing wind speeds are a key feature of the overnight forecast. The easterly winds are predicted to strengthen, reaching speeds of 19 to 35 km/h (12 to 22 mph) by early March 29th. Furthermore, the forecast warns of potential gusts reaching up to 51 km/h (32 mph) at times. These stronger winds, combined with the increased moisture in the air, contribute to the higher likelihood of showers. The gusts, in particular, could pose a challenge for small craft operators and other outdoor activities. It’s crucial for residents and visitors to be aware of these potentially hazardous wind conditions and take necessary precautions.

The forecast also includes information on sea conditions, which are expected to deteriorate alongside the increasing wind speeds. During the day on March 28th, seas are predicted to range from 1.2 to 1.8 meters (4 to 6 feet). However, the forecast anticipates an increase in wave height as the winds pick up overnight. This poses a significant risk for small craft operators, who are advised to exercise caution due to the combined effects of stronger winds and higher seas. It’s advisable for small boats to remain in port during the period of heightened wind and wave activity to ensure safety.

In summary, the forecast for the Leeward and British Virgin Islands anticipates a shift from relatively calm daytime conditions on March 28th to increasingly windy and potentially showery conditions overnight and into the early morning of March 29th. The key drivers of this change are a tightening pressure gradient leading to stronger easterly winds and increased moisture availability. The forecast provides specific details on temperature, wind speed, sea conditions, and the probability of precipitation, allowing residents and visitors to prepare for the changing weather patterns. The forecast particularly emphasizes caution for small craft operators due to the anticipated increase in wind speed and wave height, advising them to exercise prudence and prioritize safety. The forecast also provides timing details for sunrise and sunset, with sunset on March 28th at 6:24 PM and sunrise on March 29th at 6:08 AM. This information allows for planning of outdoor activities and is particularly relevant for those engaged in maritime activities.