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Contents
- The climate of Funchal
- The best time to visit Funchal
- The worst time to visit Funchal
- Spring weather in Funchal
- Summer weather in Funchal
- Autumn weather in Funchal
- Winter weather in Funchal
- 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
The climate of Funchal
Located on the Portuguese island of Madeira, the city of Funchal is home to a Mediterranean climate that is characterized by warm summers. According to Köppen's climate classification, this falls under the Csb category. As Funchal is situated on an island, its climatic conditions are heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout the year, Funchal sees an average sea temperature ranging from 17.8°C (64°F) in March to a high of 23.8°C (74.8°F) in September. Daily sunlight hours fluctuate between 10 hours in January to a peak of 14.3 hours in June. The UV index sees minimal variance, remaining between 5 from January to April and returning to 5 from October to December, with a slight increase to 6 from May to September.
The annual weather cycle in Funchal experiences certain deviations. Notably, the humidity relative tends to peak at 80% in June and August. When it comes to rainfall, August sees the least amount with 3mm (0.12"), while November has the highest rainfall of 44mm (1.73"). Wind speeds in Funchal average around 21.1km/h (13.1mph) in January and gradually decrease to around 17.7km/h (11mph) by September before picking up again towards the end of the year.
Throughout the year, Funchal sees an average sea temperature ranging from 17.8°C (64°F) in March to a high of 23.8°C (74.8°F) in September. Daily sunlight hours fluctuate between 10 hours in January to a peak of 14.3 hours in June. The UV index sees minimal variance, remaining between 5 from January to April and returning to 5 from October to December, with a slight increase to 6 from May to September.
The annual weather cycle in Funchal experiences certain deviations. Notably, the humidity relative tends to peak at 80% in June and August. When it comes to rainfall, August sees the least amount with 3mm (0.12"), while November has the highest rainfall of 44mm (1.73"). Wind speeds in Funchal average around 21.1km/h (13.1mph) in January and gradually decrease to around 17.7km/h (11mph) by September before picking up again towards the end of the year.
The best time to visit Funchal
Given Funchal's climate and weather patterns, visitors can expect ideal conditions between May and September. During these months, the sea temperature is above 20°C (68°F), making beach and ocean activities particularly enjoyable. Furthermore, the bright and sunny conditions, with daylight reaching up to 14.3 hours in June, provide ample time for sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Funchal
Visitors might prefer to avoid visiting Funchal from October to February. This period witnesses higher levels of rainfall and relatively low sea temperatures. Specifically, November experiences the highest rainfall of 44mm (1.73") over 16 days, coupled with a low sea temperature of 21.5°C (70.7°F). Although the conditions are not harsh, they are less ideal for outdoor activities and seaside enjoyment.
Spring weather in Funchal
March ushers in the spring in Funchal, characterized by a gradual increase in temperature, from a high of 16.9°C (62.4°F) at the start, to 18.8°C (65.8°F) by May. Daytime hours also increase, starting with 12 hours of daylight in March and reaching up to 13.8 hours in May. Relative humidity hovers around 75%.
Summer weather in Funchal
Summer in Funchal runs from June to August and is typified by warm and pleasant conditions. Temperatures reach the highest during this period, with a high of 23°C (73.4°F) in August. The sea temperature also hits the year's highest, touching 23.2°C (73.8°F). Winds gradually decrease through the season, offering comfortable beach days.
Autumn weather in Funchal
Autumn in Funchal, covering September to November, witnesses a gradual reduction in temperature and an increase in rainfall. Temperatures start at a high of 22.8°C (73°F) in September, falling to 20°C (68°F) by November. Rainfall shows an upward trend during this period, peaking at 44mm (1.73") in November.
Winter weather in Funchal
Winter descends on Funchal from December and continues until February. The balmiest months see temperatures dropping to a high of 18.7°C (65.7°F) by December. Rainfall rates remain high with 27mm (1.06") in December but ease to 19mm (0.75") by February. Despite the relatively cooler temperatures, the sea temperature hovers above 18.1°C (64.6°F), showcasing a pleasantly mild winter.
Weather in January
Coming out of December, January weather conditions in Funchal, Portugal persist in a similar fashion. Mild temperatures, high relative humidity, and noticeable winds dominate the weather scenario. It's confirmed by the presence of temperatures between 16.3°C (61.3°F) and 17.6°C (63.7°F) and winds that can reach 21.1km/h (13.1mph) with gusts up to 29.5km/h (18.3mph). Weather in January »
Weather in February
February follows the trend set by January, but with specific indications of change as spring comes nearer. While notable windy conditions continue, the weather becomes marginally less humid, while changes in temperature are minimal. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The weather in Funchal in March tends to be an extension of winter with the promise of spring. While the temperature range and humidity levels remain steady, rainfall records a slight increase to 24mm (0.94") spread over about 11.6 days. Weather in March »
Weather in April
As Funchal strides into April, the first signs of spring make themselves apparent. A hint of warmth reaches the city with marginally higher temperatures heralding the onset of the season. Rainfall records a slight drop to an average of 21mm (0.83"), spread over about 10.5 days, indicating a reduction in precipitation. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May's weather in Funchal is characterized by an amplified spring feel as the temperature continues rising and the relative humidity remains constant. As rainfall reaches a lower point of 9mm (0.35") spread across about 7.6 days, the city experiences drier conditions. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Funchal, Portugal welcomes the summer season with open arms. Higher temperatures and humidity define this month's weather. Nevertheless, despite the arrival of summer, rainfall is not completely absent, averaging 14mm (0.55") across about 6.1 days. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Amid July's summer peak in Funchal, the average temperature rises to between 20.3°C (68.5°F) to 22.1°C (71.8°F) making it the hottest month so far. Warm and inviting, the coastal city sees a marked decrease in rainfall to only 4mm (0.16") over about 4.9 days, making it the driest month of the year. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August continues the hot, summer conditions of July, bringing mild nights and very warm days to Funchal. Even though humidity reaches one of its peak values, the city experiences another significant reduction in rain, reaching its lowest point at 3mm (0.12") across roughly 3.9 days. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As Funchal transitions from summer to autumn in September, the city's weather character changes gradually. Warm temperatures persist, albeit slightly lower than in previous months. While rainfall increases to 10mm (0.39") dispersed over approximately 6.9 days, it's nowhere near close to the winter levels. Weather in September »
Weather in October
In October, Funchal begins to bid farewell to the warmth of summer and navigate towards the winter with cooler conditions. Despite this, temperatures remain rather pleasant and the sea continues to be warm. Interestingly, October sees a significant rise in rainfall to 44mm (1.73") across around 12.5 days, a notable jump from the predecessors. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November's weather in Funchal witnesses a further deepening of winter traits as colder days and increased rainfall settle in. With an average rainfall of 35mm (1.38") across approximately 16 days, it's the month with the highest number of rainy days. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Finally, Funchal rounds off the year with December, a month that sees continued winter patterns. The weather is characterized by cooler temperatures and substantial rainfall, amounting to an average of 27mm (1.06") over roughly 13.4 days. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Funchal?
Throughout the year, there are 116.4 rainfall days, and 232mm (9.13") of precipitation is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Funchal?
The months with the least sunshine are January and December, with an average of 7.6h of sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Funchal?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through June, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What are the coldest months in Funchal?
The lowest level of Funchal's temperatures is noted during February and March, averaging a high-temperature of 16.9°C (62.4°F).
What is the least humid month in Funchal?
February is the least humid month in Funchal, with an average relative humidity of 73%.
When is the sea coldest in Funchal?
With an average sea temperature of 17.8°C (64°F), March is the month with the coldest seawater.
What are the most humid months in Funchal?
June and August, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are most humid months in Funchal, Portugal.
When are the longest days in Funchal?
With an average of 14h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Funchal, Portugal.
What month has the most sunshine in Funchal?
With an average of 9.2h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year in Funchal, Portugal.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Funchal?
The months with the highest UV index are July through October, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the warmest month in Funchal?
Funchal's warmest month, August, registers temperatures that range from a high of 23°C (73.4°F) to a low of 21.4°C (70.5°F).
What is the driest month in Funchal?
August is the month with the least rainfall in Funchal. Rain falls for 3.9 days and accumulates 3mm (0.12") of precipitation.
When is the sea warmest in Funchal?
With an average sea temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F), September is the month with the warmest seawater in Funchal.
What is the wettest month in Funchal?
October is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 12.5 days and accumulates 44mm (1.73") of precipitation.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Funchal?
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 02:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from WEST to WET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 01:00, and the time zone reverts from WET to WEST.
What is the month with the shortest days in Funchal?
December has the shortest days of the year in Funchal, with an average of 10h and 0min of daylight.
Average temperature
Funchal, Portugal
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (23°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are February and March (16.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is September (21.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is March (15.1°C).
Average pressure
Funchal, Portugal
- Average pressure in January:
1024.1mbar - Average pressure in February:
1022.2mbar - Average pressure in March:
1019.9mbar - Average pressure in April:
1018.3mbar - Average pressure in May:
1019.2mbar - Average pressure in June:
1020.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1020.2mbar - Average pressure in August:
1019.1mbar - Average pressure in September:
1019mbar - Average pressure in October:
1017mbar - Average pressure in November:
1019.3mbar - Average pressure in December:
1022.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1024.1mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is October (1017mbar).
Average wind speed
Funchal, Portugal
- Average wind speed in January:
21.1km/h - Average wind speed in February:
23km/h - Average wind speed in March:
22.9km/h - Average wind speed in April:
20.1km/h - Average wind speed in May:
20.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
18.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
20km/h - Average wind speed in August:
19.9km/h - Average wind speed in September:
17.7km/h - Average wind speed in October:
18.3km/h - Average wind speed in November:
22.8km/h - Average wind speed in December:
22.3km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (23km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (17.7km/h).
Average humidity
Funchal, Portugal
The months with the highest relative humidity are June and August (80%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is February (73%).
Average rainfall
Funchal, Portugal
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (44mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is August (3mm).
Average rainfall days
Funchal, Portugal
- Average rainfall days in January:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
6.1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in August:
3.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
6.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
16 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (16 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (3.9 days).
Average sea temperature
Funchal, Portugal
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is September (23.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (17.8°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Funchal, Portugal
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 9h and 12min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 7h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
Funchal, Portugal
- Average sunshine days in January:
12.1 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
15 days - Average sunshine days in May:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
16.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
18.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
20.9 days - Average sunshine days in September:
14.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
12 days - Average sunshine days in November:
8.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
12 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (20.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (8.4 days).
Average UV index
Funchal, Portugal
The months with the highest UV index are July, August, September and October (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, November and December (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Funchal, Portugal
The month with the most cloud cover is November (Cloud cover 41).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 24).
Average visibility
Funchal, Portugal
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).
Funchal, Portugal
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