Rote Seasons and Weather

Indonesia’s dry season, which corresponds with most the south swell season, runs April through mid October; with the wet season and the bulk of rainfall occurring November through February/March.  However, with Indonesia running over 4000 miles north to south and crossing the equator, the many islands of Indonesia experience different climatic zones and yearly rainfall.  The Rote/southern most area of Indonesia is the most arid region of all Indonesia.  It is not unusual for there to be no rain for many months through the dry season, with the majority of rain falling in short periods of heavy rainfall during the wet season.  This area can also be a few degrees cooler then other areas of Indonesia with air and water temperatures dropping as low as the mid 75-77 degrees June through August.

May through mid September will typically experience ESE trade winds which at times can be strong.  This wind direction is favorable/off shore at Nemberala and some of the other main breaks on Rote and the neighboring islands.  The early and late season months of March/April and mid Sept through October experience a more light and variable wind pattern, with wind possible from almost any direction – expect some glassy days.  November to February can see wind coming from the North which is unfavorable for Nemberala, but there are a few jems that favor this wind, and there will be nobody around.