Climate and monthly weather forecast
Sal, Cape Verde

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A man aboard a simple boat near a beach, on the clear waters of Santa Maria Island in Sal, Cape Verde
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.

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 »
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Frequently asked questions

What is the least humid month in Sal?

The months with the lowest humidity in Sal, Cape Verde, are January and December, with an average relative humidity of 72%.

What is the driest month in Sal?

The only month without rainfall in Sal, Cape Verde, is January.

How many days does it rain in Sal?

Throughout the year, in Sal, there are 37.7 rainfall days, and 90mm (3.54") of precipitation is accumulated.

What are the months with the coldest sea water in Sal?

The months with the coldest seawater are January through May, with an average sea temperature of 22°C (71.6°F).

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Sal?

January through August, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the lowest UV index in Sal.

When does it rain in Sal?

February through December are months with rainfall.

What is the coldest month in Sal?

March, known for its average high temperature of 21.6°C (70.9°F) and an average low temperature of 20.6°C (69.1°F), is the coldest month in Sal, Cape Verde.

What is the most humid month in Sal?

The months with the highest humidity are June and July, with an average relative humidity of 84%.

When are the longest days in Sal?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 13h and 6min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine in Sal?

With an average of 10.6h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year in Sal.

What is the wettest month in Sal?

The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 7.2 days and typically aggregates up to 35mm (1.38") of precipitation.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Sal?

With an average of 7h of sunshine, August has the least sunshine of the year in Sal.

What month is the sea warmest in Sal?

The month with the warmest seawater in Sal, Cape Verde, is September, with an average sea temperature of 27°C (80.6°F).

When is the highest UV index in Sal?

The months with the highest UV index in Sal are September and October, with an average maximum UV index of 7.

What time of the year is the hottest in Sal?

The warmest time of the year in Sal is October, with temperatures averaging a high of 26.7°C (80.1°F) and a low of 25.9°C (78.6°F).

What is the month with the shortest days in Sal?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 12min of daylight.

Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Sal?

Sal does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). -01 timezone is used over the entire year.

Average temperature
Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Average pressure
Sal, Cape Verde

Average pressure - Sal, Cape Verde

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1016.2mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is August (1013mbar).

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Average wind speed
Sal, Cape Verde

Average wind speed - Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Average humidity
Sal, Cape Verde

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%).

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Average rainfall
Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Average rainfall days
Sal, Cape Verde

Average rainfall days - Sal, Cape Verde

The month with the highest number of rainy days is September (8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (1 days).

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Average sea temperature
Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sal, Cape Verde

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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).

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Average sunshine days
Sal, Cape Verde

Average sunshine days - Sal, Cape Verde

The month with the most sunshine days is January (29.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (18.9 days).

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Average UV index
Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Average visibility
Sal, Cape Verde

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).

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Sal, Cape Verde

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