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Contents
- The climate of Sal
- The best time to visit Sal
- The worst time to visit Sal
- Spring weather in Sal
- Summer weather in Sal
- Autumn weather in Sal
- Winter weather in Sal
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
A man aboard a simple boat near a beach, on the clear waters of Santa Maria Island in Sal, Cape Verde
The climate of Sal
Sal, a part of Cape Verde archipelago, is located in the humid tropics. Its climatological pattern fits squarely within the BWh classification of Köppen climate classification, identifying it as a subtropical desert. The weather remains highly consistent throughout the year, with minor variations.
Throughout the year, the highest average temperature barely fluctuates and marginally rises from 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 26.7°C (80.1°F). The lowest average temperature similarly progresses from 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F), maintaining a warm atmosphere year-round. Humidity ranges from 72% to 84%, providing the island with a moderate to high level of moisture.
Rainfall experiences a noticeable pattern, with virtually no precipitation from January to June and a significant surge in August and September reaching 35mm (1.38") and 28mm (1.1") respectively. Rainfall days follow a similar trend, climbing from a single day in January to eight days in September.
The island enjoys long daylight hours, ranging from 11.1 hours to 13.1 hours. Sunshine hours remain quite generous, dropping slightly during the humid period but averaging around 8.6 hours per day. Cloud cover increases substantially during the rainy period, reaching up to 48% in August, compared to a relatively clear sky during drier periods.
Throughout the year, the highest average temperature barely fluctuates and marginally rises from 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 26.7°C (80.1°F). The lowest average temperature similarly progresses from 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F), maintaining a warm atmosphere year-round. Humidity ranges from 72% to 84%, providing the island with a moderate to high level of moisture.
Rainfall experiences a noticeable pattern, with virtually no precipitation from January to June and a significant surge in August and September reaching 35mm (1.38") and 28mm (1.1") respectively. Rainfall days follow a similar trend, climbing from a single day in January to eight days in September.
The island enjoys long daylight hours, ranging from 11.1 hours to 13.1 hours. Sunshine hours remain quite generous, dropping slightly during the humid period but averaging around 8.6 hours per day. Cloud cover increases substantially during the rainy period, reaching up to 48% in August, compared to a relatively clear sky during drier periods.
The best time to visit Sal
Spring, between March and May, would present the ideal window to visit Sal. The weather is warm yet moderately humid, with a temperature ranging from 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 23.9°C (75°F). Rainfall remains at a minimal level with monthly averages around 1mm (0.04"), contributing to dry, sunny days. Additionally, the island will be bathed in approximately 12.1 hours to 12.9 hours of daylight a day reflecting an ideal time for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Sal
The months of August and September showcase a different weather pattern for visitors. During these months, rainfall hits its peak, with monthly averages shooting up to 35mm (1.38") and 28mm (1.1"). Rainfall days also increase, reaching 7.2 days and 8 days respectively. This period might be least desirable for visitors, especially those looking to enjoy outdoor activities in Sal.
Spring weather in Sal
Spring in Sal ushers in a gradual rise in temperature from 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 23.9°C (75°F). Humidity also begins to increase, making the environment moderately moist. Rainfall remains nearly absent, marking a dry spring season. The spring period gifts the island with longer daylight hours, from 12.1 hours in March to 13.1 hours in June. Travelers can look forward to prolonged sunshine hours and long day excursions in spring.
Summer weather in Sal
Summer in Sal, from June through August, is characterized by a significant increase in rainfall. The monthly average shoots up from 2mm (0.08") to a staggering 35mm (1.38"). Humidity remains high as the temperature peaks, offering rather warm and humid weather conditions. Despite the erratic weather, daylight remains plentiful, with about 13 hours per day. Sunshine hours reduce, but the island stays reasonably sunny, assuring delightful outdoor adventures.
Autumn weather in Sal
Autumn in Sal, from September through November, is marked by a decrease in rainfall, falling from 28mm (1.1") to 2mm (0.08") in November, thereby making the later months of autumn more attractive for visitors. The weather remains warm, with temperatures varying from 26°C (78.8°F) to 24.5°C (76.1°F). Despite the decrease in rainfall, humidity remains high, creating a moderately moist environment. Daylight hours also begin to decrease, making the days slightly shorter.
Winter weather in Sal
Sal's winter season, from December until February, is characterized by stable weather conditions. The average temperature dips marginally, falling to 22.7°C (72.9°F) and 21.7°C (71.1°F) in January and February respectively, and consistent with the subtropical desert climate, precipitation is quite minimal throughout this phase. With daylight hours of around 11 hours, this period also exhibits reduced cloud cover, resulting in clear, bright winters, optimal for visitors who prefer mild weather and plenty of sunshine.
Weather in January
January in Sal, Cape Verde brings a flurry of mild conditions. The temperature plays between 21.6°C (70.9°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F), ensuring a pleasant start to the year. Compared to the later months, there is no rainfall in January, making it a great time to explore the unspoilt beauty of the island. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February brings subtle changes to the climatic canvas of Sal. The temperature dips slightly to a low of 20.8°C (69.4°F) from a high of 21.7°C (71.1°F), sustaining the moderate weather from January. Absence of extreme climatic conditions creates perfect settings for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March's palette unfolds with enhanced beauty in Cape Verde’s Sal. Although the temperature fluctuates from 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 21.6°C (70.9°F), it counters the humidity increase experienced in February, resulting in balanced climatic conditions. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April carries forward the early signs of warmth as observed in the latter part of March. A high of 21.8°C (71.2°F) marks a slight rise in temperature, signaling the onset of the warmer months. The mild teetering of the temperature and the increased duration of daylight emulate an idyllic spring season. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May triggers the transition of Sal from spring to summer. Displaying a temperature range of 21.3°C (70.3°F) to 22.5°C (72.5°F), the weather becomes significantly warmer than the preceding April. Reduced rainfall and increased sea temperatures create perfect conditions for seaside and outdoor activities. Weather in May »
Weather in June
In June, Sal experiences a subtle hint of the summer heat. Temperatures climb up to 23°C (73.4°F) from a low of 21.8°C (71.2°F), hinting at the warm months ahead. The appealing blend of the balmy weather, extended daylight hours, and intermittent rainfall add to the diverse summer experience. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July witnesses Sal in its full summer splendor. A peak temperature of 23.9°C (75°F) underlines the warmest phase of the year, presenting a stark contrast to the departing June. The heat, although elevated, is balmy and complements the island's scenic vistas. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Sal delivers the highest temperature of the year, measuring 25.8°C (78.4°F) in stark contrast to the dwindling warmth of July. Accompanying the temperature shift is the arrival of rainfall, with 35mm (1.38") rain adding variety to the climatic conditions. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September embodies the proverbial calm after the storm. Despite a considerable drop in temperature from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F) compared to August, the weather remains mostly warm. The lingering heat of the summer gives way to more pleasant conditions, making the outdoors seem more inviting. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October entails a shift from the warm September to moderately cool conditions. The maximum temperature curb at 26.7°C (80.1°F) resonates with the pleasant outdoors and the lively island culture. After the departure of the September showers, the weather assumes a balanced profile. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November sets the stage for the upcoming winter in Sal. The temperature fluctuated from an ordinary high of 25.5°C (77.9°F) to comfortable lows, indicating a transition from the warm October days. The entry of November means significantly less rain and the pleasant chilly island breeze wafting about. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December heralds in the winter season in Sal. With temperatures oscillating from 23.1°C (73.6°F) to 24.1°C (75.4°F), the weather becomes noticeably colder than in November. The arrival of December brings the lowest temperatures of the year, aligning with the year-end festivities. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 12, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What are the least humid months?
January and December, with an average relative humidity of 72%, are the least humid months.
What is the driest month?
January is the only month when rain does not fall.
How many days does it rain?
In Sal, during the entire year, the rain falls for 37.7 days and collects up to 90mm (3.54") of precipitation.
When is the sea coldest?
January through May, with an average sea temperature of 22°C (71.6°F), are months with the coldest seawater.
When is the lowest UV index?
January through August, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the lowest UV index.
When does it rain?
February through December are months with rainfall.
What part of the year is the coldest?
Sal reaches its average lowest temperatures in March, measuring 21.6°C (70.9°F) at the peak and 20.6°C (69.1°F) at the lowest.
What are the most humid months?
The months with the highest humidity in Sal are June and July, with an average relative humidity of 84%.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 13h and 6min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What month has the most sunshine in Sal?
The month with the most sunshine is June, with an average of 10.6h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month?
August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 7.2 days and accumulates 35mm (1.38") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
August has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 7h of sunshine.
What month is the sea warmest?
September is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 27°C (80.6°F).
What are the months with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index in Sal are September and October, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What part of the year is the hottest?
In Sal, October records the average highest temperatures, peaking at 26.7°C (80.1°F) and reaching a low of 25.9°C (78.6°F).
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 12min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
Sal, Cape Verde, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). -01 timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Sal, Cape Verde
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is October (26.7°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is March (21.6°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is September (26°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is March (20.6°C).
Average pressure
Sal, Cape Verde
- Average pressure in January:
1016.2mbar - Average pressure in February:
1015.7mbar - Average pressure in March:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1014.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1014.9mbar - Average pressure in June:
1015.3mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1014.3mbar - Average pressure in August:
1013mbar - Average pressure in September:
1013.1mbar - Average pressure in October:
1013.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1013.9mbar - Average pressure in December:
1015.3mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1016.2mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is August (1013mbar).
Average wind speed
Sal, Cape Verde
- Average wind speed in January:
29.5km/h - Average wind speed in February:
30.2km/h - Average wind speed in March:
28km/h - Average wind speed in April:
27.4km/h - Average wind speed in May:
27.9km/h - Average wind speed in June:
24.9km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
19km/h - Average wind speed in August:
17.9km/h - Average wind speed in September:
20.8km/h - Average wind speed in October:
22.9km/h - Average wind speed in November:
25.3km/h - Average wind speed in December:
27.4km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (30.2km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (17.9km/h).
Average humidity
Sal, Cape Verde
The months with the highest relative humidity are June and July (84%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and December (72%).
Average rainfall
Sal, Cape Verde
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (35mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (0mm).
Average rainfall days
Sal, Cape Verde
- Average rainfall days in January:
1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
3.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
2.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
1.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
4.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
7.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
1.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
1.2 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is September (8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (1 days).
Average sea temperature
Sal, Cape Verde
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is September (27°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are January, February, March, April and May (22°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sal, Cape Verde
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 12min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
8h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 0min).
Average sunshine days
Sal, Cape Verde
- Average sunshine days in January:
29.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
25.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
28.4 days - Average sunshine days in April:
27.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
27.5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
26.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
21.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
19.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
18.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
27 days - Average sunshine days in November:
27.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
28.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (29.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (18.9 days).
Average UV index
Sal, Cape Verde
The months with the highest UV index are September and October (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, November and December (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Sal, Cape Verde
The month with the most cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 48).
The month with the least cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 18).
Average visibility
Sal, Cape Verde
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Sal, Cape Verde
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