March weather forecast
São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe

As São Tomé steps into March, fluctuations in weather conditions start creeping in. The spectrum of temperature expands from 22.6°C (72.7°F) to 30.2°C (86.4°F) hinting at the upcoming summer months. Rainfall records a significant increase, earning the distinction of being the wettest month. However, despite the increase in precipitation, there's no dearth of sunlight. The daylight duration continues uninterrupted from the pattern traced so far in the year.

Temperature

In São Tomé, March records the highest average temperatures, peaking at 30.2°C (86.4°F) and reaching a low of 22.6°C (72.7°F).

Heat index

For March, the heat index is estimated at a sweltering 39°C (102.2°F). Undertake extra safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are expected. Heatstroke may result from lengthy activity.
Records show heat index calculations are tailored for shaded regions and mild winds. With direct sunlight, the heat index could increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', joins air temperature with relative humidity to produce a temperature perception for humans. An individual's perception of weather can be affected by a variety of elements including metabolic differences, being pregnant, and their level of physical exertion. Bear in mind that direct sunshine exposure increases weather impact, and may raise heat index by up to 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.
Evaporating sweat, thanks to perspiration, acts as a natural air conditioner for the human body. When relative humidity is on the rise, it curtails evaporation, thereby reducing the heat elimination from the body and causing the feeling of being excessively hot. Overheating and dehydration threats arise when heat gain goes beyond what the body can comfortably shed.

Humidity

In March, the average relative humidity in São Tomé is 83%.

Rainfall

The month with the most rainfall is March, when the rain falls for 12 days and typically aggregates up to 131mm (5.16") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

February through April, with an average sea temperature of 29°C (84.2°F), are months with the warmest seawater.
Note: Temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) are ideal for swimming, diving, and similar water activities, ensuring pleasure and comfort for extended periods without feeling uneasy.

Daylight

The average length of the day in March is 12h and 7min.
On the first day of March, sunrise is at 05:42 and sunset at 17:48. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:33 and sunset at 17:40 GMT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in March is 4.5h.

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 ordinary individuals.
Note: The UV index of 12 during March leads to these advisories:
Practice all-important precautions. Light skin people may get burned in less than 5 minutes. Attempt to stay under shade and limit exposure to the Sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. Remember, devices such as parasols or canopies might not provide complete sun protection. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days. Even when it's cloudy, ensure the generous application and frequent reapplication of a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, particularly post swim or outdoor activity. Be alert! The reflection of water and sand augments UV radiation intensity.