January weather forecast
São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe

January commences the year with balmy weather in São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe. The temperature flexes between 22.4°C (72.3°F) at its chilliest and 29.4°C (84.9°F) when it reaches its zenith. This serves as an introductory phase to the climatic journey of the year. As compared to December, the barometer drops slightly while humidity remains fairly constant. Intermittent showers and a moderate level of sunshine percolating through the clouds characterize this opening month.

Temperature

São Tomé's shift into January is marked by a subtle change to a still moderately hot 29.4°C (84.9°F) from December's 29.1°C (84.4°F) in temperature. São Tomé, during the nights of January, experiences an average temperature drop to an agreeable 22.4°C (72.3°F).

Heat index

In January, the average heat index is calculated to be a very hot 37°C (98.6°F). Implement enhanced safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion could occur. Sustained activity might result in heatstroke.
When assessing, remember that heat index measurements are for light winds and shaded spots. Heat index values may rise by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees when exposed to direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'real feel', is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human-perceived temperature equivalent. The experience of temperature can be subjective, varying based on the individual's activity and heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, attire, and metabolic variations. Keep it in mind, direct sunlight can augment the heat you experience, possibly pushing the heat index up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly important for children. Young individuals are generally in more danger than adults due to their lower capacity to sweat. Moreover, their large skin surface in relation to their small bodies and the increased heat generation from their activities makes them more vulnerable.
To offset high temperatures, the human body releases sweat which, upon evaporation, cools it down. With an abundance of moisture present in the air, the process of evaporation becomes less effective, and the body fails to cool down as it should, leading to the sensation of overheating. Overheating and dehydration threats arise when heat gain goes beyond what the body can comfortably shed.

Humidity

January, November and December, with an average relative humidity of 85%, are the most humid months.

Rainfall

In January, in São Tomé, the rain falls for 8 days. Throughout January, 81mm (3.19") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe, there are 94 rainfall days, and 885mm (34.84") of precipitation is accumulated.

Sea temperature

In São Tomé, the average seawater temperature in January is 28°C (82.4°F).
Note: For engaging in water activities including swimming and diving, temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are perceived as perfect, providing pleasure for extended durations.

Daylight

In January, the average length of the day in São Tomé is 12h and 7min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:33 and sunset at 17:39. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 05:43 and sunset at 17:49 GMT.

Sunshine

In January, the average sunshine in São Tomé is 4.6h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are January through May, August through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an ultimate health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: During January, 12 as the daily maximum UV index converts into the following advice:
Employ all crucial safeguards, unprotected skin could burn rapidly. Limit direct sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. However, keep in mind that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance. Broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more should be applied liberally every two hours and directly after outdoor activities or swimming. Caution! The reflection of sand and water significantly increases the intensity of the Sun's UV radiation.