Climate and monthly weather forecast
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

englishespañol中文
Share

The climate of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, located in São Tomé and Príncipe, experiences a dominant As Köppen climate classification, officially recognized as a Tropical wet and dry or savanna with a 'summer' dry season. The town's equatorial position combined with this classification leads to predictable weather patterns throughout the year. There is not much variation in temperature, with highs averaging from 24.5°C (76.1°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F) and lows staying between 23°C (73.4°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F).

The region's relative humidity oscillates between 76% to 83% throughout the year, reflecting the constant warm temperatures and high moisture levels. Whether it's summer or winter, heat and humid conditions are the norm in the area. Notably, the pressure mostly stays steady, with barometric readings remaining between 1009.8mb to 1014.3mb over the year.

Santa Cruz experiences significant variance in rainfall levels. The region receives from 9mm (0.35") to 224mm (8.82") of precipitation per month. The most precipitation occurs from October to December, indicating a wetter end to the year. Despite heavy downpours, residents and visitors can expect quite a bit of sunshine ranging from 5 hours to 8.6 hours per day. However, the most prolonged sunshine hours are usually found during the first half of the year.

The best time to visit Santa Cruz

Considering the climatic and weather conditions of Santa Cruz, the best time to visit would be during the months from May to August. During this time, the city experiences the least rainfall, with precipitation levels dropping to a minimum of 9mm (0.35") in July. Additionally, temperatures, although still warm, are slightly cooler compared to other times in the year, making outdoor activities more comfortable. Despite the reduced rainfall, these months still enjoy sufficient sunshine, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to explore Santa Cruz in all its tropical splendor.

The worst time to visit Santa Cruz

Conversely, the months from October to December prove to be the most challenging time to visit Santa Cruz. The region witnesses its highest rainfall levels during these months, reaching up to 224mm (8.82") in November. This excessive precipitation along with high humidity levels can cause discomfort and hinder travel plans. Despite these conditions, there's still some sunshine to be had. However, if a visit cannot be avoided during this time, visitors are advised to be well-prepared for the weather conditions.

Spring weather in Santa Cruz

Spring, delineated by the months of March, April, and May, in Santa Cruz can be characterized by gradually decreasing rainfall and a minute reduction in temperatures. The average high temperatures hover close to 28.8°C (83.8°F) in March and slowly fall down to 25.6°C (78.1°F) by May. While early spring can still experience substantial precipitation, by May, the rainfall reduces to just 22mm (0.87").

Summer weather in Santa Cruz

Summer, spanning from June to August, brings about the driest months in Santa Cruz with rainfall dipping to its lowest at 9mm (0.35") in July. Concurrently, temperatures moderate, hovering around a comfortable range of 24.5°C (76.1°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F). Finer moments during the sunny periods, extending up to 6 hours a day, provide a pleasant atmosphere for visitors during these months.

Autumn weather in Santa Cruz

Autumn in Santa Cruz, marked by the months of September, October, and November, is typically characterized by an escalating trend in rainfall. September serves as a transition period as the precipitation gradually begins to increase from 35mm (1.38"), escalating to a staggering 224mm (8.82") by November. This significant increase in rainfall accompanies a slight rise in temperature from 25.5°C (77.9°F) to 27.1°C (80.8°F).

Winter weather in Santa Cruz

Winter in Santa Cruz, encompassing December, January, and February, is warm and rainy. High temperatures during these months range from 27.5°C (81.5°F) to 28°C (82.4°F) and lows fluctuate from 27°C (80.6°F) to 27.3°C (81.1°F). Rainfall remains high reaching up to 159mm (6.26"), particularly in December. Despite this, daylight hours of about 12.1 hours ensure that the city remains bright, with sunshine lasting for about 8.2 hours in February.

Weather in January

In Santa Cruz, the annual weather cycle kicks off with January embodying a typical tropical climate. Humidity levels rise slightly, accentuating the warmth. Episodes of rain showers characterize the majority of this month, contributing to an average rainfall of 130mm (5.12"). Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, Santa Cruz experiences subtle changes in the weather pattern. Although the temperature variation between January and February is almost negligible, the frequency of sun-lit days slightly increases, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The progression of the year in Santa Cruz sees a slight shift in the weather pattern by March. The diminishing rain levels in combination with the subtly increased daytime temperature give the city's climate a more pleasant feel. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Santa Cruz carries a similar weather pattern as the preceding month of March, but with a slightly less dry climate. The wind speeds decrease alongside a drop in the temperature, indicating the onset of the transition from warm to cooler months. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May features a noticeable change in Santa Cruz's weather, marking the transition to noticeably cooler temperatures. The city experiences a reduction in sunshine hours, yet daytime remains constant, providing ample light for daily activities. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings in a marked change in Santa Cruz's weather dynamics. A noticeable drop in temperatures pairs with an increase in the number of cloudy days leading to a dip in sunshine hours. However, this month is noteworthy due to its exceptionally low precipitation of 22mm (0.87"), marking the onset of drier conditions. Weather in June »

Weather in July

In July, Santa Cruz welcomes its coolest and driest weather phase, a relief from the previous tropical conditions. The humidity drops appreciatively and the frequency of rain showers drastically recedes. July witnesses the least amount of rainfall for the year, amounting to only 9mm (0.35"). Weather in July »

Weather in August

The weather pattern in August in Santa Cruz continues to express low rainfall levels and decreased temperatures. The echo of July’s mild climate is indeed felt with even less sunshine hours and a reduced UV index. Slightly enhanced rainfall, reaching 21mm (0.83"), introduces a break from the preceding extremely dry conditions. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The transition to Spring in Santa Cruz throughout September reflects slightly warmer weather. Post august, the marginally higher temperatures coexist with an increasing moisture level, hinting at the returning tropical climate. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October ushers in a surge in rainfall in Santa Cruz, indicating the onset of the rainy season. As the year progresses towards its end, the weather reverts to its humid, tropical character. A vast increase in precipitation to 220mm (8.66"), from the preceding 35mm (1.38") is felt here. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Santa Cruz in November maintains the same wet conditions ushered in by October. However, the rainfall peaks this month with a voluminous 224mm (8.82") pouring out over the city. Despite the rainy conditions, the hours of sunshine gradually increase, providing a brighter atmosphere in the city. Weather in November »

Weather in December

In December, Santa Cruz experiences a slight decrease in rainfall, slowly easing out of the monsoon season. However, the temperatures tiptoe upwards, paving the way for the incoming tropical weather. Interestingly, this month is distinctive due to its lowest average wind speed of the year, falling to 10.8km/h (6.7mph). Weather in December »

Frequently asked questions

How much does it rain in Santa Cruz?

In Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe, during the entire year, the rain falls for 241.7 days and collects up to 1287mm (50.67") of precipitation.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Santa Cruz?

The months with the highest UV index in Santa Cruz are January through May, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7.

What month has the most sunshine in Santa Cruz?

With an average of 8.6h of sunshine, February has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the hottest time of year in Santa Cruz?

In Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe, the average temperatures in March are the highest, with a peak at 28.8°C (83.8°F) and a low of 27.5°C (81.5°F).

What is the least humid month in Santa Cruz?

The least humid month in Santa Cruz is March, with an average relative humidity of 76%.

When are the longest days in Santa Cruz?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 12h and 6min of daylight.

What is the coldest time of year in Santa Cruz?

July, on average, is the coldest month, registering a high temperature of 24.5°C (76.1°F) and a low of 23°C (73.4°F).

What is the driest month in Santa Cruz?

July is the month with the least rainfall in Santa Cruz. Rain falls for 8.4 days and accumulates 9mm (0.35") of precipitation.

When is the lowest UV index in Santa Cruz?

With an average maximum UV index of 5, July is the month with the lowest UV index.

What is the most humid month in Santa Cruz?

August through October, with an average relative humidity of 83%, are most humid months in Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Santa Cruz?

With an average of 5h of sunshine, August has the least sunshine of the year.

What is the month with the shortest days in Santa Cruz?

October has the shortest days of the year in Santa Cruz, with an average of 12h and 6min of daylight.

What is the rainiest month in Santa Cruz?

November is the month with the most rainfall in Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe. Rain falls for 26.7 days and accumulates 224mm (8.82") of precipitation.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). GMT timezone is used throughout the entire year.

Average temperature
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average temperature - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is March (28.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is July (24.5°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is March (27.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is July (23°C).

Average pressure
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average pressure - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1014.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1009.8mbar).

Average wind speed
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average wind speed - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is July (17.7km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is December (10.8km/h).

Average humidity
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average humidity - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The months with the highest relative humidity are August, September and October (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (76%).

Average rainfall
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average rainfall - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (224mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (9mm).

Average rainfall days
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average rainfall days - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (28.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (7.3 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is October (Average daylight: 12h and 6min).

The month with the most sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 8h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 5h and 0min).

Average sunshine days
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average sunshine days - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The month with the most sunshine days is June (16.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (1.5 days).

Average UV index
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average UV index - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is July (UV index 5).

Average cloud cover
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average cloud cover - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The month with the most cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 65).
The month with the least cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 37).

Average visibility
Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Average visibility - Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are October and November (9km).

Santa Cruz, São Tomé and Príncipe

Weather forecast for your location

1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location