The climate of San Salvador
The geographical positioning of
San Salvador positions it distinctly within the Aw - Tropical wet and dry or savanna - region of the Köppen climate classification. This climatic categorization is predominantly settled on its weather behavior throughout the year.
A journey through the climate patterns shows a cyclical dance between temperatures, humidity, and rainfall. The temperature swings from a pleasant 19.4°C (66.9°F) to a warmer 32.6°C (90.7°F), providing a stable range ideal for tropical bio-diversity. Equally, the relative humidity levels oscillate from 62% to a peak of 82%. This affirms the humid tropical nature of the climate and its propensity for wet weather conditions, with
February and
September falling into the highest realms of humidity levels respectively.
Rainfall shows a strong correlation with the humidity levels, reaching a maximum of 234mm (9.21") in
May and a minimum of 1mm (0.04") in
January. This range varies widely from minimal to abundant levels, thereby pegging the climate to the savannah type, known for significant monthly rain variations. Similarly, daylight hours range from 11.3 to 12.9 hours displaying longer sunshine hours from
April to
June. From this array of data, it emerges clearly that the sunshine hours do not vary considerably, despite slight increases in the middle of the year.
The cloud cover in San Salvador also aligns closely with the tropical wet and dry climate, peaking in both June and
October with 38% coverage.
The best time to visit San Salvador
With a considered analysis of the climatic data,
November emerges as the ideal time to visit
San Salvador. This month presents the most agreeable balance between temperature, humidity, and rainfall. The temperature is at an average 29.9°C (85.8°F) while the relative humidity drops to 75%. Rainfall also registers relatively lower levels at 31mm (1.22"). Moreover, a commendable UV index of 6 makes this time of year a favorite for visitors, providing the best outdoor conditions.
The worst time to visit San Salvador
The least suitable period to visit
San Salvador lies in
May. This month presents the highest level of rainfall, averaging 234mm (9.21"). While the city may indeed be lush and green during this time, the torrential rains and high humidity level, peaking at 76%, may put a damper on travel plans. A potential visitor might find outdoor activities hindered by the relentless rains and wet conditions.
Spring weather in San Salvador
Springtime in
San Salvador extends from
March to
May where temperatures tend to hover around 31°C (87.8°F). During this period, rainfall initiates its increase, reaching its peak in May with 234mm (9.21"). A considerable surge in daylight hours is noticeable during these months, leading to increased sunshine exposure and a UV index of 7.
Summer weather in San Salvador
Summer weather builds up from
June to
August. The temperature remains rather consistent, oscillating from 29.9°C (85.8°F) to the lowest point of 29.8°C (85.6°F) in August. Simultaneously, the humidity hits its annual peak in June with 81%. Rainfall is prevalent in this period, standing at 156mm (6.14") in June and tapering off to 159mm (6.26") by August. Despite the clouds, high sunshine hours still persist throughout the season.
Autumn weather in San Salvador
Experiencing autumn in
San Salvador comes with a measure of relief from the persistent summer rains. Through
September to
November, rainfall registers a declining trend. In line with this, the humidity also shows signs of decrease, eventually reaching 75% in November. The temperatures throughout this autumn period maintain a steady pace in the region of 29°C (84.2°F).
Winter weather in San Salvador
Winter months in
San Salvador, extending from
December to
February, show a subtle decline in temperature. December starts at a slightly cooler 29.9°C (85.8°F), descending to 29°C (84.2°F) in
January, then spiraling back up to 30.6°C (87.1°F) in February. The season is characterized by low rainfall, a decrease in humidity, and relatively shorter days. The season brings relief with the lowest rainfall of 1mm (0.04") in January, making it one of the driest months in the region.
Weather in January
January starts the year on a bright note in
San Salvador, with an environment well-suited for outdoor activities. The weather remains largely stable with mild temperature variations. Clear skies dominate the cityscape while high visibility contributes to scenic views of the landscape.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February carries on the dry and bright weather conditions from
January. The city experiences an increase in temperatures and longer daylight hours. A higher UV index of 7 units encourages extra precautions for sun protection. Although a slight increase in cloud cover is noticed, the skies remain generally clear.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March denotes the transition to slightly warmer nights in
San Salvador. The daylight duration extends further, promising more sunshine and outdoor fun. A slight increase in rainfall is observed, but showers remain light and scattered.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signals the advent of substantial rainfall in
San Salvador. Temperature variations remain minimal while daylight hours peak. Overcast conditions increase as the figure for cloud cover rises appreciably. During April, rainfall jumps dramatically to produce an average of 45mm (1.77") over an extended period of 15.2 days of rainfall, indicating a shift to wetter conditions.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in
San Salvador. The temperatures stay steady but the spike in relative humidity to 76% from last month’s 67% makes the city feel significantly wetter. A decline in visibility coincides with the increased rainfall and cloud cover.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June,
San Salvador continues its rainy spell, but with slightly decreased intensity compared to
May. The city transitions to shorter daylight hours, but the UV index remains consistently high. Even though wind speeds stay relatively low, sustained rains influence higher cloudiness and decreased visibility.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July brings a marginal reprieve from the rainy conditions that dominated
June in
San Salvador. Daylight hours continue to reduce, but clear days are not unusual. The UV index holds at 7 units, maintaining a constant requirement for sun safeguards.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August replicates the weather pattern from
July in
San Salvador. Medium-range temperatures combine with reduced sunshine hours to define the city's weather. Meanwhile, consistent humidity levels contribute to a pleasantly warm atmosphere.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September sees a slight dip in temperature in
San Salvador, mirrored by the decline in daylight and sunshine duration. Rainfall continues unabated, contributing to high levels of humidity and cloud cover. Despite this, the UV index remains consistently high.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October presents the highest rainfall levels in the second half of the year for
San Salvador. Daylight hours keep reducing, but an increasing number of sunshine days offer residents some respite. Despite the consistent UV index, lower visibility limits outdoor activities.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November signals a significant transition to drier weather in
San Salvador. Notable improvements in visibility along with extended periods of sunshine mark the city's move towards less wet conditions. Even though the UV Index hovers at its usual level, cloud cover reduces, making the sun appear brighter.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
San Salvador brings a definitive end to the rainy season. The slightly cooler temperatures, coupled with increased wind speeds, make for a more refreshing end to the year. Although daylight hours continue to decrease, clear skies and improved visibility dominate the landscape.
Weather in December » [Resources]