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The Leeward Islands

islands receive an average of 55 inches (140 cm) of rain during the year. The temperature on Antigua and Barbuda ranges from 76°F (24°C) in January to 83°F (29°C) in August, and the islands receive about 40 inches (102 cm) of rain each year. Guadeloupe’s wet season stretches into November; annual rainfall is about 71 inches (180 cm). A Diverse Terrain The land of the Leeward Islands is as diverse as the wildlife and plants found on them. Anguilla, one of the driest islands, is very flat. The highest point on the island is just 213 feet (65 meters) above sea level. There are 12 miles (19 kilometers) of powdery beaches around the island’s edge, and 33 beaches and caves and seven islets and cays that offer diving, snorkeling, and other outdoor activities. In contrast, the island of St. Martin is rugged, made up mostly of steep volcanic hills and pleasant beaches. The highest point on the island juts nearly 1,200 feet (366 meters) above sea level, offering an impres- sive view of the neighboring islands. St. Barts is hilly and rugged as well, but also includes wooded areas with low-growing foliage. The beaches of St. Barts are made of white and gold sand. St. Kitts is a volcanic island with a dormant volcano called Mount Liamuiga rising 3,792 feet (1,157 meters) above sea level. The volcano is home to a tropical rain forest and rare animals and plants. Steep hills wind their way around the small island of Nevis, where the highest point is Nevis Peak, at 3,232 feet (986 meters) above sea level. With a total area of 688 square miles (1,780 sq km), Guadeloupe is the largest member of the Leeward Islands. It is composed of two medium-sized