Winter in Toamasina doesn’t really match the image of cold, snowy months that some folks might have in mind. Instead of crisp air or frost, you get warm days, mild nights, and a steady dose of humidity.
Temperatures usually stick between 21 °C and 23 °C, so it’s comfortable and honestly, kind of inviting.
Rain still shows up a lot during these months, thanks to the southeast trade winds. Sure, wet weather is common, but the rainfall feels lighter compared to the peak wet season, which leaves more chances to head outside.
Sunshine hours get trimmed down, but you’ve still got enough daylight to wander the coast or check out city life.
The Indian Ocean stays surprisingly warm in winter, with sea temps hovering around 24–25 °C. So, swimming and beach days are still on the table, even when the air feels a bit cooler.
All this steady warmth, high humidity, and regular rain keep Toamasina looking lush and vibrant no matter the season.
Overview of Toamasina’s Winter Climate
Toamasina sits on Madagascar’s east coast and has a tropical climate with warm temps and steady rainfall all year.
In winter, things shift a bit—cooler air, shorter days, and a little less rain than during the wettest months.
Location and Climate Classification
You’ll find Toamasina right along the Indian Ocean in Madagascar’s Atsinanana region. Its low elevation and spot on the coast shape its weather in a big way.
The city falls under the tropical rainforest climate (Af) in the Köppen system. That means there’s no true dry season—rain falls every month, just not always in the same amounts.
Southeast trade winds sweep in steady moisture, keeping humidity high, even in winter. On average, humidity hangs around 82–85%, making it feel warmer than the numbers on the thermometer.
Sea temps stay comfy too, ranging from about 24 °C in August and September to nearly 26 °C in June. Even in the coolest months, the coast stays good for swimming.
Winter Season Months
Winter in Toamasina runs from June through August, though September often gets lumped in as part of the cooler stretch. Daytime highs during this time usually hit 25 °C to 26 °C, while nighttime lows drop to around 17–18 °C.
July stands out as the coolest month, averaging 21.3 °C overall. Nights can fall to 14 °C, which still feels mild compared to inland Madagascar.
Rain keeps coming through winter, but the totals are lower than the peak rainy months. June and July see about 277–280 mm each, while August drops to about 178 mm. Rain tends to show up in short, heavy bursts, not all-day downpours.
Sunshine drops off a bit. June and July bring about 5.5 to 6 hours of sun per day, with a slight bump in August. Days are shorter, and the June solstice marks the year’s shortest daylight.
Comparing Winter to Other Seasons
Winter feels cooler and less soggy than the December–April rainy season, when highs shoot up to 30 °C or more and monthly rainfall often tops 400 mm. Humidity gets heavier in summer, making things feel a bit oppressive.
Unlike spring and early summer, winter almost never brings extreme heat. The air feels more comfortable for being outside, though humidity and the odd shower still show up.
Compared to the September–November transition months, winter is cloudier and wetter. By October, rainfall drops below 100 mm and sunshine hours climb to 7.5 per day, hinting at brighter, drier days ahead.
Winter offers the most stable stretch for moderate temps. You won’t get a totally dry period in Toamasina, but you’ll notice less rain, cooler nights, and calmer weather than the wild storms of summer.
Typical Winter Temperatures in Toamasina
Winter in Toamasina brings milder conditions compared to the muggy, hot summer. Days get cooler, nights feel more comfortable, but the warmth sticks around compared to many other places.
Average Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Most winter days in Toamasina land between 75°F and 78°F (24°C to 26°C). These highs feel warm but not as intense as summer, so heading outside is a lot more pleasant.
At night, things cool down to about 64°F to 67°F (18°C to 19°C). It’s a noticeable drop, but not cold—you’ll rarely want more than a light layer in the evenings.
Humidity still lingers, but with lower temps, it doesn’t feel as stifling. Mornings can be a bit cooler, especially in July, before the sun warms everything back up.
This mix of warm afternoons and cooler nights creates a comfortable climate for both locals and visitors.
Monthly Temperature Variations
Winter here stretches from June through September. Each month brings small, steady changes in highs and lows.
- June: Highs near 78°F (25°C), lows around 66°F (19°C)
- July: The coolest month, with highs near 76°F (24°C) and lows around 64°F (18°C)
- August: Highs inch up to 77°F (25°C), lows still near 64°F (18°C)
- September: Temps climb again, with highs around 78°F (26°C) and lows near 65°F (18°C)
These shifts are gradual. You won’t get sudden swings—just a gentle cooling trend peaking in July, then a slow warm-up toward spring.
Temperature Extremes in Winter
You almost never see extreme cold in Toamasina. Winter temps rarely dip below 61°F (16°C), even on the coolest nights.
Daytime highs in winter don’t really break 80°F (27°C). That’s much more stable than the hot months, when highs can hit the mid-80s.
This lack of sharp extremes means you get pretty steady comfort. Toamasina’s spot on the coast keeps winters mild and predictable—unlike the wilder swings inland.
Rainfall Patterns and Rainy Days During Winter
When winter rolls in, Toamasina still gets steady rain, but it’s less than the peak wet season. Rain shows up often, but the way it falls changes compared to earlier in the year.
Average Winter Rainfall
Winter runs from June through August, and rainfall drops compared to the cyclone season. Monthly totals average about 110 mm to 180 mm—pretty moderate for a tropical rainforest spot.
That’s still more than many coastal cities worldwide see. One winter month in Toamasina can outdo an entire season’s rain for some European cities.
Rain usually comes as short, frequent showers, not long storms. You might get both wet and dry spells in a single day. The city almost never goes totally dry, even in its “drier” season.
Frequency of Rainy Days
Even though winter brings less total rain, the number of rainy days stays up there. Most months, you’ll see 8 to 12 days of rain during June, July, and August.
So, you’ll probably get rain on about a third of the days each month.
Showers often hit in the afternoon or evening, leaving mornings clearer. That’s handy if you want to plan outdoor stuff—mornings usually give you the best shot at dry weather.
Winter rains don’t hit as hard or disrupt things like the cyclone season. Roads and plans hold up better, but carrying a light rain jacket is still smart. All those showers keep the air humid and the scenery green.
Seasonal Rainfall Trends
Toamasina’s rain follows a seasonal cycle. January through April brings the heaviest rains, often over 300 mm per month.
From May to December, it’s drier, though still wet by most standards.
Winter months fall right in the middle. Rain drops off from summer but stays higher than late spring or early fall. This keeps things tropical but makes travel more comfortable.
Consistent winter rain fits with the city’s tropical rainforest climate (Af classification). Even in the driest stretch, Toamasina never really dries out. Rain just eases up before ramping back up for the next wet season.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight in Winter
In winter, Toamasina gets shorter days, fewer sunshine hours, and cooler—but still warm—weather. The balance of daylight and bright hours matters if you’re planning to be outside or just want to know how much sun you’ll catch.
Average Daily Sunshine Hours
Winter brings some of the lowest average daily sunshine hours of the year. July bottoms out with about 5.3 hours per day.
June and August sit a bit higher, but still not much compared to other seasons.
Clouds and seasonal rain cut back the sun. Even when rain totals drop, skies often stay partly cloudy.
If you’re visiting, expect shorter stretches of clear, bright weather. Beach days or outdoor trips? Mornings usually give you the best shot at sunshine before clouds roll in later.
Monthly Sunshine Variations
Sunshine creeps up and down month to month. In June, you get just over 5 hours a day. July is the lowest at 5.3 hours. By August, you’re back up near 6 hours daily.
It might not sound like a big swing, but an hour more sunshine can really change how afternoons feel and how long you want to stay outside.
Here’s a quick look at the winter pattern:
| Month | Average Daily Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|
| June | ~5.4 hours |
| July | ~5.3 hours |
| August | ~5.8 hours |
That slow climb signals spring isn’t too far off.
Daylight Duration
Daylight in Toamasina during winter runs about 11 hours in June and July, getting a bit longer in August. These are the shortest days of the year here, but still longer than what you’d get up north.
Less daylight and less sun combine for cooler, softer light all season. Mornings and evenings feel stretched, while midday sun isn’t too harsh.
Sunrise hits around 6:00 a.m., and sunset lands near 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in mid-winter. You get enough daylight for sightseeing, but those shorter sun hours mean fewer bright, clear afternoons.
Humidity and Atmospheric Conditions
Winter in Toamasina stays warm and sticky, with steady humidity and gentle breezes shaping how it all feels. Moist air and mild temps create a muggy vibe, while light winds and stable pressure patterns add to the comfort—or at least keep things from feeling too stuffy.
Relative Humidity Levels
You’ll notice very high relative humidity all winter in Toamasina. Averages hang around 83–85%, so the air holds a lot of moisture, even when rainfall drops off.
This humidity makes daytime temps feel warmer than the thermometer says. For instance, a max of 24°C (75°F) in July can feel heavier because the air’s so saturated.
Nights stay muggy too, with not much relief from the dampness.
Monthly differences are tiny. June often tops out at 85%, while October, right after winter, dips just a bit to about 82%. So, you’ll always feel that humid touch—there’s not much seasonal break.
If you’re visiting, breathable clothes help you handle the damp. Inside, good airflow is a must—rooms can get stuffy without it.
Wind and Pressure Trends
In Toamasina, winter winds usually stay light to moderate. Most days, breezes come from the southeast and average around 8–15 km/h.
These winds carry moist ocean air, which keeps the city humid almost all the time. You’ll notice the air feels heavy, especially if you’re not used to tropical weather.
Atmospheric pressure doesn’t change much here. It usually sits near 1015 hPa, which fits a tropical coastal spot like this.
You won’t see the big pressure drops that signal storms in other regions. Instead, the weather stays fairly steady, with only small changes.
Because the pressure and winds don’t shift much, sudden weather changes are rare. Most of the time, you’ll just see passing clouds or maybe a quick shower.
This predictability makes it easier to plan outdoor activities. Still, the constant humidity can feel a bit much if you’re not prepared for it.
Sea Temperature and Coastal Weather
Even in winter, the Indian Ocean along Toamasina’s coast stays warm enough for swimming. Air temperatures dip a little, but the water remains comfortable.
Humidity sticks around, and you’ll get frequent rain showers. Days are a bit shorter than in summer, but the coast still feels lively.
Average Winter Sea Temperatures
Between June and August, sea temperatures here usually sit between 24.6°C (76.3°F) and 25.2°C (77.4°F). That’s cooler than peak summer, but still great for swimming.
The air and sea temperatures don’t differ much, so you won’t get much of a chill moving between the beach and the water. Even in July, which is the coolest month, the sea almost never drops below 24.5°C.
Humidity often stays above 80%, making the coast feel warmer than it looks on paper. Rain showers pop up in winter, but they’re usually brief, and you’ll still get sunny breaks during the day.
| Month | Avg. High Air Temp | Avg. Low Air Temp | Avg. Sea Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 25.6°C (78.1°F) | 17.8°C (64°F) | 25.2°C (77.4°F) |
| July | 24.8°C (76.6°F) | 17.1°C (62.8°F) | 24.6°C (76.3°F) |
| August | 25.0°C (77°F) | 17.5°C (63.5°F) | 24.8°C (76.6°F) |
Swimming and Water Activities in Winter
You can swim comfortably during winter since the sea stays well above chilly temperatures. Most people find snorkeling and casual swimming pretty enjoyable, and water clarity usually gets better with a bit less rain.
If you like longer swims, the cooler but steady sea temperature feels more refreshing than cold. Mornings are calm, so it’s the best time for swimming or paddleboarding.
Rain showers might show up without much warning, but they don’t usually last long enough to ruin a whole beach day. Winds tend to pick up in the afternoon, so earlier is better for water activities if you want smooth conditions.
Always check local advisories about currents, because Madagascar’s coastal waters can change quickly. Even in winter, warm seas and tropical weather make Toamasina’s shoreline a year-round spot for water fun.
Practical Tips for Experiencing Winter in Toamasina
Winter here brings mild temperatures and steady humidity, with rain showing up often. You can still get outside, but it’s smart to plan for wet weather and pack with comfort in mind.
Best Activities for Winter Visitors
From June to August, Toamasina’s winter stays warm, with daytime highs around 25–26 °C and nights dropping to 17–18 °C. Rain is common, especially in June and July, so expect a few showers most days.
This season works well for exploring markets and colonial streets—the cooler air makes walking tours pleasant. The port and seaside promenade are nice for a stroll without the summer heat beating down.
Nature lovers can head inland for rainforest and wildlife day trips, but some trails get muddy. Beaches remain usable, with sea temperatures hovering around 24–25 °C, so swimming’s still an option. Seas might get rougher, though, so it’s wise to check local conditions before planning anything in the water.
If you want a break from the rain, try museums or cultural centers. Sampling Malagasy food at local restaurants is a good way to spend a wet afternoon, and honestly, who doesn’t love that?
What to Pack for the Season
Pack light clothes for the warm days ahead. Toss in a light jacket or sweater because evenings can get chilly sometimes.
Go for breathable fabrics like cotton, since they’ll keep you comfy when the air feels muggy.
Don’t forget rain gear. A compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket will save you from those sudden showers.
Grab waterproof shoes or sandals that dry fast, especially if you’ll be walking around after the rain.
Planning to head outdoors? Bring insect repellent and throw a small first-aid kit in your bag. Trails might be damp, so lace up sturdy shoes with a good grip.
If swimming’s on your list, pack your swimwear and choose reef-safe sunscreen. The sun can be surprisingly strong, even in winter, and you’ll want to avoid burning on cloudy days too.
A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will give you some extra protection from those sneaky UV rays.