The climate of Vanuatu is humid tropical and exerts a profound impact on the soils of the region.
Vanuatu experiences high rainfall with some regions receiving over 3,000 mm of rainfall annually. There is a wet season, typically from November to April, and a dry season from May to October. During the dry season soil moisture deficits may occur. Overall, the high precipitation is a significant factor in leaching and in the removal of minerals from the soil leading to soil acidity and nutrient loss, and reduced soil fertility.
The warm tropical temperatures accelerate chemical weathering processes in soils, resulting in the breakdown of minerals and the formation of characteristic features like ferralitic soils with high iron and aluminium content.
Vanuatu is affected by El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, affecting rainfall patterns and leading to droughts or excessive rainfall. These variations impact soil moisture and nutrient availability, influencing plant growth and soil development.
Low lying coastal areas may be vulnerable to storm surge and sea-level rise and associated saltwater intrusion due to climate change.
