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

March, having an average high-temperature of 30.2°C (86.4°F) and an average low-temperature of 22.6°C (72.7°F), is the warmest month.

Heat index

March's average heat index is calculated to be a very hot 39°C (102.2°F). Incorporate special precautions, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is substantial. Sustained activity could cause heatstroke.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. Direct exposure to sunshine could lead to a heat index increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is a measure that combines air temperature and relative humidity into a single value that indicates how hot the weather feels. The influence of weather is personal, differing among individuals based on variations in body mass, stature, and the degree of physical exertion. Under direct sun rays, the felt temperature might be heightened, with the heat index increasing by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values hold great significance to children. Youngsters typically face more danger than adults since they sweat less. Their larger skin surface compared to their small bodies and heightened heat production from their activities augment their vulnerability.
To prevent overheating and help regulate its internal temperature, the human body sweat and rely on the evaporation to cool down. In the presence of high relative humidity, the evaporation rate diminishes, resulting in the body retaining more warmth compared to dry conditions. Accumulating heat beyond the body's cooling measures leads to rising temperatures and potential ailments.

Humidity

In São Tomé, the average relative humidity in March 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: Water activities including swimming and diving are pleasurable in temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), ensuring comfort and enjoyment for extended time frames.

Daylight

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

Sunshine

In São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe, the average sunshine in March is 4.5h.

UV index

January through May, August through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index in São Tomé. A UV Index value of 11, and more, symbolizes an excessive health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: In March, a daily maximum UV index of 12 leads to the following instructions:
Ensure every key safety measure. People with light skin might sustain burns in fewer than 5 minutes. Remember that the sun's UV radiation is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Make an effort to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. Opt for tightly woven and loose clothing to enhance protection from the Sun. One should apply and reapply liberally a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ every two hours and immediately after a swim or an outdoor exercise. Warning! Reflective surfaces like sand and water amplify the Sun's UV radiation.