Mayotte is a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean, characterized by a tropical maritime climate, resulting in high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The seasons are broadly divided into a "dry season (winter)" and a "rainy season (summer)," each featuring unique cultural events and customs. Below, we explain the relationship between Mayotte's seasonal climate and events.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Average 25-30℃
- Precipitation: At the end of the rainy season, rainfall gradually decreases
- Characteristics: High humidity, but signs of the dry season begin to appear in May
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Contents and Relationship to Climate |
| March |
School Event (New Semester) |
Starts in the rain. Rainproofing of facilities is important. |
| April |
Ramadan (varies by month) |
Fasting occurs in high temperatures and humidity. The culture of gathering meals after sunset is established. |
| May |
Eid al-Fitr |
Celebration at the end of Ramadan. Coincides with the start of the dry season, encouraging outdoor activities. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Slightly lower (24-28℃) and relatively comfortable
- Precipitation: Dry season with little rainfall and many sunny days
- Characteristics: Ideal season for travel and outdoor activities
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Contents and Relationship to Climate |
| June |
National Education Day |
An event to reaffirm the importance of education, easily conducted during favorable weather. |
| July |
Bastille Day (July 14) |
A French holiday celebrated in Mayotte with ceremonies and parades. There is less worry about rain. |
| August |
Wedding Season |
Many weddings held in stable weather. Traditional costumes and music are highlights. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Features
- Temperature: Rising trend (27-31℃)
- Precipitation: Beginning of the rainy season with gradually increasing humidity and rainfall
- Characteristics: Sticky heat and increased mosquito presence
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Contents and Relationship to Climate |
| September |
Religious Events (many Islamic) |
Activities primarily indoors and in mosques. Due to high temperature and humidity, ventilation is important. |
| October |
French Language Day |
Celebrating culture and language in educational institutions. Outdoor activities require attention to humidity and high temperatures. |
| November |
School Cultural Festival |
A culmination event at the end of the academic year. The event structure must account for heat and sudden rain. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Features
- Temperature: The hottest period of the year (29-33℃)
- Precipitation: Entering the full rainy season with frequent showers and thunderstorms
- Characteristics: Increased risk of cyclones, raising disaster risks
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Contents and Relationship to Climate |
| December |
Year-End Festival |
Focused on religious and family events. Indoor events are common in preparation for bad weather. |
| January |
New Year Celebration |
Large gatherings and music events. Cancellation or postponement may be considered due to climate. |
| February |
Rituals and Ceremonies during the Rainy Season |
Ceremonies to give thanks for the bounty of the land. Deeply connected to agricultural culture. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
| Season |
Climate Features |
Examples of Main Events |
| Spring |
End of rainy season, high humidity |
Ramadan, start of semester, Eid |
| Summer |
Dry season, many sunny and mild days |
Bastille Day, education events, weddings |
| Autumn |
Beginning of rainy season, hot and humid |
French Language Day, cultural festival, religious ceremonies |
| Winter |
Full rainy season, cyclone warnings |
Year-end events, New Year, rainy season traditional ceremonies |
Additional Remarks
- Mayotte has a predominantly Islamic culture, with events based on the Islamic calendar playing a significant role throughout the year.
- Agricultural and marine resource-based lifestyles are greatly influenced by the seasons and climate.
- Due to climate change, there have been recent changes in the patterns of the rainy season and cyclone occurrences, leading to a continued increased awareness of local weather.
In Mayotte, traditional culture, French systems, and the natural environment intersect in complex ways. Climate change greatly influences daily life and the nature of events, and an understanding of this relationship will continue to be necessary in the future.
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