Climate

The climate of the Comoros is marine tropical, with two seasons:

• hot and humid from November to April
  (the result of the northeastern monsoon)
• a cooler, drier season the rest of the year

Average monthly temperatures range from 23° C to 28° C along the coasts; upland areas are cooler, particularly at night, and have higher rainfall.

Although the average annual precipitation is 2,000 mm, water is a scarce commodity in many parts of Comoros. Mwali and Mahoré possess streams and other natural sources of water, but Njazidja and Nzwani, whose mountainous landscapes retain water poorly, are almost devoid of naturally occurring running water.

Cyclones, occurring during the hot and wet season (December to April), can cause extensive damage, especially in coastal areas. Once every 5 years or so, houses, farms and harbour facilities are devastated by these great storms.