St. Kitts and Nevis Meteorological Forecast

This detailed weather forecast, valid until 8:00 AM on Saturday, December 21st, 2024, predicts generally stable atmospheric conditions for the remainder of Friday, December 20th, and the early hours of Saturday. A high-pressure ridge, characterized by sinking air (subsidence), is dominating the region, suppressing widespread shower activity. However, the presence of localized pockets of moisture transported by the prevailing wind flow introduces the possibility of brief periods of increased cloud cover and isolated showers. Temperatures are expected to remain warm, reaching a high of 30°C (86°F) and dipping to a low of 23°C (73°F) overnight.

The forecast for Friday calls for partly sunny skies with a moderate chance of showers, estimated at 40%. This suggests that while sunshine will be prevalent, there is a significant probability of intermittent showers developing. These showers are likely to be localized and short-lived due to the suppressive influence of the high-pressure ridge. As the day progresses and transitions into the evening hours, the chance of showers decreases to 20%, indicating partly cloudy skies with only a slight chance of precipitation. The reduced shower activity during the night is consistent with the typical diurnal cycle of convection, where daytime heating fuels the development of showers which then dissipate overnight as the atmosphere cools.

Winds are predicted to be from the east, with sustained speeds ranging from 13 to 37 km/h (8 to 23 mph). Gusts, brief periods of stronger winds, could reach as high as 54 km/h (33 mph). These relatively brisk easterly winds are likely contributing to the transport of moisture that could generate the isolated showers. The wind speed and direction are important factors in determining the movement and intensity of weather systems, as well as influencing the sea state.

Marine conditions are expected to remain moderately rough, with wave heights between 1.8 and 2.4 meters (6 to 8 feet). These wave heights are further exacerbated by northerly swells of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet). The combination of wind-generated waves and swells creates potentially hazardous conditions for marine activities, leading to the continuation of a High Surf Advisory. This advisory serves as a warning to beachgoers and mariners to exercise caution due to the increased risk of strong currents and dangerous surf conditions.

The sunset is predicted to occur at 5:42 PM on Friday, ushering in the evening hours. The following morning, Saturday, December 21st, sunrise is expected at 6:36 AM. These times reflect the typical diurnal cycle and the Earth’s rotation relative to the sun. The duration of daylight hours is characteristic of the time of year and the geographical location.

In summary, the forecast indicates generally settled weather conditions dominated by a high-pressure ridge, with a moderate chance of isolated showers during the day, decreasing to a slight chance overnight. Warm temperatures are expected, accompanied by brisk easterly winds and moderately rough seas, prompting the continuation of a High Surf Advisory. This forecast provides a comprehensive overview of the expected weather conditions, enabling individuals to plan their activities accordingly. The information encompasses atmospheric conditions, temperature ranges, precipitation probabilities, wind speed and direction, and marine conditions. The inclusion of sunrise and sunset times further enhances the completeness of this weather forecast.