Comoros is a volcanic archipelago floating in the Indian Ocean, belonging to a tropical monsoon climate. The seasons do not have clear distinctions as in four seasons; rather, a structure of alternating "dry season" and "rainy season" occurs. For convenience, this article defines March to May as spring, June to August as summer, September to November as autumn, and December to February as winter, introducing the climatic characteristics and events of each season.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Features
- Hot and humid, coinciding with the peak of the rainy season
- Especially from March to April, intense downpours frequently occur
- By May, there is a gradual transition to the dry season
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| March |
Ramadan (Mobile Festival) |
A religious month marked by fasting during the day. Faith practices are required amidst the heat and humidity. |
| April |
Mawlid (Prophet's Birthday) |
Celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Celebrations are centered indoors even in the rain. |
| May |
Harvest Preparation Period |
Preparations for harvesting aromatic crops such as vanilla and ylang-ylang begin before entering the dry season. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Features
- A relatively dry period with pleasant weather suitable for tourism
- Average temperatures range from 25 to 28°C, making it comfortable
- The sea is calm, and fishing and marine activities are active
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| June |
Independence Day (June 6) |
A national event celebrating independence from France. Parades are held in good weather. |
| July |
International Music Festival |
A cultural event showcasing folk dances and traditional music, often held in the cool evening. |
| August |
Sea Thanksgiving Festival |
A traditional event giving thanks for the sea's bounty in fishing villages. Celebrations take place under good weather. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Features
- The return of the rainy season, with increasing rainfall from late September
- High humidity with caution against downpours
- Temperatures remain high and muggy
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| September |
National Day |
A day celebrating the nation and culture. Outdoor activities are carried out between rainfalls. |
| October |
Spice Festival |
A harvest festival celebrating essential exports from Comoros such as vanilla and clove. |
| November |
Local Traditional Ceremony (by village) |
Social rituals such as group weddings are held. Dates are flexibly adjusted based on climatic conditions. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Features
- The rainy season intensifies, concentrating much of the annual rainfall during this time
- May also be affected by cyclones, leading to very unstable weather
- High humidity and temperatures make it feel muggy
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| December |
New Year Events (mixed with Islamic calendar) |
Family gatherings and prayers are held. Indoor celebrations are common during rainy days. |
| January |
Agricultural Beginning Prayer Festival |
A prayer for the success of the new agricultural period. Rainfall is seen as a sign of abundant crops. |
| February |
Community Clean-up Activities for Heavy Rain Prevention |
Local disaster prevention activities, such as cleaning drainage systems, become active to prevent flooding. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relations
| Season |
Climate Features |
Examples of Main Events |
| Spring |
Peak of the rainy season, high humidity, thunderstorms |
Ramadan, Mawlid, Harvest Preparation |
| Summer |
Dry season, pleasant climate, suitable for tourism |
Independence Day, Music Festival, Sea Thanksgiving |
| Autumn |
Resumption of the rainy season, frequent downpours, muggy |
National Day, Spice Festival, Traditional Ceremonies |
| Winter |
Heavy rains and cyclone season, extremely humid |
New Year Events, Agricultural Prayer Festival, Disaster Prevention Activities |
Additional Notes
- The seasons in Comoros are closely linked to agriculture, fishing, and religious events, and the region is highly susceptible to the effects of climate change.
- Influenced by Islam, religious events have a mobility that differs from the solar calendar, meaning the timing of events can change year by year.
- A lifestyle that lives in harmony with nature is deeply rooted in the culture, with weather phenomena such as rain and wind being accepted as part of life.
In Comoros, the connection between climate and events is strong, and a lifestyle aligned with the rhythms of nature continues to be deeply embedded in the culture. Despite feeling the effects of climate change year by year, people cherish regional culture while maintaining harmony.
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