Average temperatures and rainfall in Dominica in March. © Scott S. Bateman

Dominica weather in March is warm, but the risk of rain is higher than most other Caribbean destinations.

Five inches of rain in any month is a rainy season for most of the Caribbean. For Dominica, it’s actually part of the island’s dry season.

This southeastern Caribbean island is known for heavy rains throughout most of the year. Many newcomers to Caribbean vacations may wonder why anyone would go there.

They go there for two reasons. For eastern and southern Caribbean cruises, it is a convenient stop about midway between Antigua to the north and St. Lucia to the south.

It also is attractive to anyone who likes ecotourism. This wet island is known for hiking among its waterfalls and rainforests as well as river tubing. Most of the cruise excursions there are land rather than sea excursions. The island is not known for beaches.

Dominica Temperatures in March

Dominica temperatures in March have an average high of 83 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 Celsius, according to the Dominica Meteorological Service. It is only slightly warmer than the low points of the year in January and February.

By comparison, the island averages about 86 degrees Fahrenheit or 30 Celsius each month from June through September. So temperatures don’t vary much throughout the year.

The average low temperature in March is 71 Fahrenheit or about 22 Celsius. It occurs mostly at night. If anyone does go to one of the few public beaches, they may find the water somewhat chilly, especially in the mornings.

Rainfall in March

Dominica’s dry season begins in January with an average of more than six inches of rain and continues through April with five inches in February, March and April, according to the Dominica Meteorological Service.

Five to six inches of rain per month is high compared to the two to three inches a month in most other Caribbean destinations during late winter and early spring.

March rainfall is about average during the Dominica dry season. It pales in comparison to the 13 inches the island averages in October during the annual Caribbean hurricane season.

Anyone planning a cruise that includes Dominica in March will find the risk of rain there is about as low as it gets during the year. Just plan on bringing a light rain poncho that is easy to pack. Besides, it’s a good idea for any cruise or hotel visit. Cruise lines also sell them on ships.

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