The climate of La Palma
Situated in the tropical region of
El Salvador, the town of
La Palma experiences a year-round warm climate, classified under the Köppen climate classification as Aw, or 'Tropical wet and dry'. The Town witnesses two distinct periods, a dry season from
November to
April and a wet season from
May to
October. The monthly average temperature swings between 16.3°C (61.3°F) and 33.2°C (91.8°F) while the monthly average relative humidity varies from 63% to 86%.
One of the more defined characteristics of this region is the fluctuation of rainfall throughout the year. There is a clear demarcation in the quantity of rainfall between the wet and dry seasons. The inception of the wet season in May, with an average rainfall of 198mm (7.8"), reaches a peak in
September with 190mm (7.48"), marking the end of this period. For contrast,
January and
February receive minimal precipitation, with average rainfall plunging to as low as 3mm (0.12") in February.
The wind speed in La Palma shows slight oscillation between 4.1km/h (2.5mph) and 9km/h (5.6mph), with the gusts reaching up to 13.1km/h (8.1mph). Visibility remains fairly constant at 10km (6.2mi) for most months, deteriorating slightly to 6km (3.7mi) in September. Another weather fixture is the sunlight hours received by the town, extending to as many as 12.8 hours in May and retracting to 11.3 hours in
December.
The best time to visit La Palma
Optimal travel time to
La Palma aligns with the dry months, specifically from
November to
April. During this phase, the Town receives less rainfall - 2mm (0.08") in
January and 5mm (0.2") in
December, contributing to pleasant sightseeing conditions. Average sunshine duration also stays relatively high during these months, with the Town experiencing 7.2 to 8.3 hours of sunlight every day.
The worst time to visit La Palma
The phase from
May to
October could be a difficult time for visitors given significant rainfall, high humidity, and relatively lower visibility, particularly during the months of
September and October where rainfall registers at an average 180mm (7.09") and 190mm (7.48") respectively.
Spring weather in La Palma
Springtime in
La Palma - dominating months
March through
May - is characterized by rising temperatures and increased rainfall. March initiates this phase with moderate rainfall of 9mm (0.35"), along with average temperatures varying between 17.8°C (64°F) and 32.4°C (90.3°F). By May, both temperatures and rainfall intensify, with high and low readings reaching 31.1°C (88°F) and 20.7°C (69.3°F), and a spike in rainfall to 198mm (7.8").
Summer weather in La Palma
Summer in
La Palma, which runs from
June to
August, is primarily marked by frequent and heavy precipitation. In June, the Town encounters an average of 170mm (6.69") in rainfall, which soars to 142mm (5.59") by August. Temperatures too register marginal rise with average low temperature moving from 19.6°C (67.3°F) to 18.8°C (65.8°F), while high temperature see slight downturn from 29.2°C (84.6°F) in June to 30°C (86°F) in August.
Autumn weather in La Palma
Autumn, spanning the months of
September to
November, in
La Palma manifests in the highest levels of precipitation for the entire year. September is the key player this season, recording a peak 190mm (7.48") of rainfall. Correspondingly, the average temperatures show a gradual decline with the low average temperature moving from 19°C (66.2°F) in September to 17.2°C (63°F) in November and high average temperature moving from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F) in the same duration.
Winter weather in La Palma
Finally, the winter season extends from
December to
February, and is distinguished by plummeting rainfall and consistently warm temperatures. The average maximum temperature hovers around 28.4°C (83.1°F) in February, while the minimum goes down to 16.3°C (61.3°F) in
January. These three months also witness the lowest average rainfall, with a mere 2mm (0.08") recorded in January. This season reflects clear skies with cloud cover falling to 17% in January. Overall, this period marks the onset of the dry spell in
La Palma.
Weather in January
Winds are moderate in
January with an average speed of 9km/h (5.6mph), but gusts can reach speeds of up to 13.1km/h (8.1mph). Start the year by enjoying the pleasant breezes of
La Palma's weather in January. It's a rather dry period, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
There's a slight increase in temperatures from
January to
February. In February, relative humidity drops to 67%, making for a more comfortable climate. It's the shortest month of the year, but sunshine hours increase slightly. Make the most of
La Palma's weather in February to explore the city's stunning landscapes.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In the transition from
February to
March, rainfall amounts increase significantly, from 3mm (0.12") to 9mm (0.35"). March marks the onset of
La Palma's wet season, as the weather transitions from dry and mild to wet and warm. The increase in rainfall does not drastically affect the sunshine hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Rainfall jumps drastically from 9mm (0.35") in
March to 51mm (2.01") in
April. April ushers in heavy rain, transforming
La Palma’s vistas into lush green landscapes. It is one of the wettest months of the year. It's an excellent time to take scenic drives or hikes to enjoy the blooming flora of La Palma.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May observes a significant spike in rainfall, reaching a maximum of 198mm (7.8").
La Palma docks its highest rainfall in May, with abundant showers nourishing the greenery. Despite the rainfall, daylight and sunshine hours remain relatively high.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Although
June sees a decrease in maximum temperature from 33.2°C (91.8°F) in
May to 31.1°C (88°F), it boasts the longest daylight hours with 13 hours.
La Palma's weather in June can delight those who appreciate a high amount of daylight and relatively cooler temperatures.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
A consistent transition from
June to
July sees relative humidity at 81%, signifying warm and sticky conditions. July offers an authentic tropical weather experience with high humidity and adequate rainfall. Plentiful rain brings thriving flora and fauna animation to the city.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Rainfall in
August peaks at 142mm (5.59"), only slightly less than in
June. The
La Palma weather in August enlivens the city as the wet weather invigorates the surrounding nature. Commencing the latter half of the year, it's an ideal time to explore the lush surroundings and rich biodiversity.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September emerges as the month with the lowest visibility at 6km (3.7mi). The
La Palma weather in September experiences reduced visibility due to consistent rain and thick clouds. Appreciate the charm of the misty landscapes and the ethereal beauty of the foggy vistas.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October experiences a reduction in rainfall, dropping significantly from 180mm (7.09") in
September to 190mm (7.48"). October welcomes dryer days, as
La Palma weather begins to transition into the drier season. It can be an excellent time to explore the city’s intricate architecture or to visit the splendid El Imposible National Park.
Weather in October » Weather in November
A significant cut in rainfall to 28mm (1.1") in
November marks the end of the wet season.
La Palma's weather in November turns more comfortable with less rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. The lower rainfall and fewer clouds make it an excellent time for sightseeing, outside dining, and cultural exploration.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December records the lowest rainfall figures for the year at only 5mm (0.2"). The year concludes with the driest month, offering the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities. With the least rainfall and more sunlight,
La Palma's weather in December is perfect for enjoying both city activities and nature explorations.
Weather in December »