The Climate in the Wet Tropics

The climate is tropical with a wet summer season from November to March and a dry winter season from April to October. During the wet, humidity is frequently over 90% and temperatures are usually in the low to mid 30's Celcius (upper 80's/mid 90's Farenheit) during the day and upper 20's C (mid 70's F) at night. Some areas of the Wet Tropics are inaccessible during the wet season and it is highly advisable to check ahead before making any definite plans. Even during the summer months, nights at higher altitudes can still get cold and damp so don't forget to pack your sweater and a pair of long pants.

During the dry season from April to October, blue skies and sunshine abound and the temperatures and humidity are lower. The daytime temperatures are in the mid to upper 20's C (upper 70's F) and the nights on the lowland coast might creep down to the upper teens C (low 60's F). However, temperatures are much lower, especially at night, on the Atherton Tablelands and other high altitude areas. The coldest months are July and August when you should subtract 5-7 degrees C (about 10-15 degrees F) from the usual dry season temperatures. If you would like current weather information, visit the Bureau of Meteorology's site.

Protection from the sun is important, especially for visitors from southern Australia or anywhere in the northern hemisphere above the Tropic of Cancer.

The tropical sun can inflict a burn in only 15 minutes so sunscreen and a hat are essential items. If you have very fair skin, covering up with light fabrics will help and some people use an umbrella to keep the sun off. The brightness of the Australian sun also seems to cause some people eye discomfort - a pair of sunglasses will help until your eyes adjust.

Once you have arrived in the area, there are a multitude of information kiosks and travel centres ready to provide you with all the information you'll need to choose your destinations, tours and activities. You might wish to start with the Queensland Government Travel Centre.

Tips for Handling the Climate:

The hot, humid conditions of the tropics and the exertion of walking can result in fatigue and dehydration. The answer is to walk slowly, rest often and carry plenty of water (!!!).

• Take it slowly the first few days after you arrive and give your body a chance to acclimatise. Stay out of air conditioning and drink more water.
• Splash cool water on yourself - as it evaporates, it takes heat with it. Don't try to stop yourself from sweating as this helps the body cool itself.
• You'll lose salt once you start sweating more so you might want to increase your intake of salty foods a little (but only if this does not pose any other health problems for you). A mineral supplement may help instead
• Wear white or pale clothing to reflect sunlight - avoid dark colours as these absorb light, making you even hotter. Also avoid synthetic materials and nylon. Cotton and gauze are the fabrics of choice in tropical climates.
• The tropical sun is many times stronger than it is towards the north or south poles and if you live outside of the tropics, your skin and eyes may suffer even from short exposures. Wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat. Use sunscreen whenever you're outside. If you are very prone to sunburn, cover up with light fabrics and consider carrying an umbrella.
• If you are out on the water, sunburn is far more severe and fast as even more rays are reflected up towards you by the water itself.