The islands of Kiribati enjoy a pleasant tropical climate from April to October, with predominant northeasterly winds and stable temperatures close to 27°C to 30 °C (86 °F). From November to March, western gales bring rain. Precipitation varies significantly between islands. Islands north of the equator tend to receive a greater mean rainfall in comparison to islands in the south and central allowing cultivation of a wider crop range. The cultivation of taro or babai, bananas and other food crops has always been easier on islands in the northern islands due to a higher water table and regular rainfall. Kiribati does not experience cyclones but effects may occasionally be experienced during cyclone seasons affecting nearby Pacific Island countries such as Fiji.