Weather and Climate

Aruba is situated 12 degrees 30' north of the equator. The weather is tropical but not extreme, with a median and practically constant temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius). Rainfall averages about eighteen inches a year, with October, November, December and January accounting for most of it. Even then rains tend to be erratic and in short bursts. It is important to mention that Aruba lies south of the general hurricane paths and usually only experiences fringe effects of nearby tropical weather. Nonetheless it is not unknown that tropical systems form close by and do have their effects on the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao).

For the most part, Aruba's blue-green sea is calm and clear on the island's popular beaches, with visibility in some areas reaching depths of over a hundred feet. Exception to this is the sea that beats against the rugged northeast coast and tends to be wild with high, thundering waves resulting in jagged rock formations and shapes. One such shape was the Natural Bridge (the Caribbean's highest) carved out of coral cliffs, which collapsed on September 2nd, 2005.

Trade winds cool the island, making lying in the sun on one of the many beaches much more tolerable although care should be taken since this is deceptive - the sun is strong, in particular between 11am and 2:30pm and the use of sunscreens is strongly recommended especially for fairer-skinned people.

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Aruba Weather Forecast

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Temperature Equivalents (approx.)

On Aruba temperature is measured in Celsius, although in most tourism communication (mostly directed at US visitors) and in hotels Fahrenheit will be used. Since the electrical current is the same as in the US (110V/60Hz), most air conditioning systems also show degrees in Fahrenheit.

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Average rainfall

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Clothing advice

Here are some tips on clothes that you might find are suitable for Aruba's weather.

Women will be comfortable in casual cottons, linens and lightweight synthetics, hats for protection against the sun, flat heeled & soft shoes for walking. Shorts and slacks can be worn on the streets of Oranjestad. Bikinis should preferably be reserved for beaches and swimming pools. No real need for elegant evening wear, casual silk or linen dresses & slacks will do. A light sweater for the cooler evenings might come in handy.

Men would do well to consider casuals and shorts during the day. Naturally swimming trunks are a good idea too! It is no longer customary for men to wear ties at business appointments, although one might consider bringing a sports jacket.

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