Last updated: January 18, 2025
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, is characterized by a BWh climate, indicative of a hot semi-arid environment. Temperatures exhibit a pleasant range throughout the year, with a minimum of 17°C (64°F) recorded in February, an average annual temperature of 22°C (72°F), and peaking at 27°C (80°F) in October. This unique climatic profile contributes to the island’s vibrant ecosystems and influences its local biodiversity and agricultural practices, making it a fascinating case study in the interplay between climate and environment.
In São Vicente, Cabo Verde, temperature patterns display a warm and consistent climate throughout the year, with seasonal variations that shape the island's weather. The year begins with pleasantly mild temperatures in January and February, where nighttime lows hover around 17-18°C (64-64°F) and daytime highs reach about 23°C (74°F). As spring approaches, March experiences a slight dip in average temperatures, with highs decreasing to 22°C (71°F), only to rebound in the warmer summer months of June through August, where temperatures peak at 25-26°C (77-79°F). September marks the transition into autumn, maintaining similar warmth before gradually cooling down in November and December, when temperatures return to the comfortable range of 19-21°C (66-71°F). Overall, São Vicente's climate is marked by a stable warmth, punctuated by a gentle seasonal rhythm.
Mindelo experiences a pleasant climate, with minimum temperatures averaging around 17°C (64°F) in February, while the maximum can reach up to 27°C (80°F) in October. This moderate range makes it an attractive destination for visitors year-round. For more detailed insights, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Mindelo.
Precipitation in São Vicente, Cabo Verde, is characterized by a distinct seasonal pattern, primarily influenced by the dry and wet seasons. The year begins with very minimal rainfall, with January recording just 1 mm (0.1 in) and February slightly increasing to 7 mm (0.3 in). March through June remains mostly dry, with total monthly precipitation rarely exceeding 3 mm (0.1 in). However, this dry spell gives way to a more substantial rainy season starting in July, where precipitation rises sharply to 8 mm (0.3 in) and continues to escalate dramatically in August, reaching 24 mm (1.0 in) and 37 mm (1.5 in) in September.
The number of rainy days correlates closely with these precipitation levels, peaking in the late summer months. Notably, August and September experience the most rainfall, each averaging 5 days of precipitation. In contrast, the months leading into this period, such as January through June, typically report little to no rainfall, often totaling 0 days of measurable precipitation. Following the peak months, the precipitation decreases again in October, November, and December, maintaining relatively low levels of 6 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm, respectively, further emphasizing the island’s overall dry climate punctuated by a brief but intense wet season.
In São Vicente, Cabo Verde, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from winter to summer. Beginning the year with 238 hours of sunshine in January, residents and visitors alike witness a gradual rise throughout the months. February sees an increase to 272 hours, and as spring unfolds, March and April deliver even more sun, with hours reaching 324 and 328 respectively. This upward trajectory continues into May, which boasts the highest sunshine duration of the year at 349 hours, marking the transition into the sunniest season.
As summer approaches, sunshine remains abundant, with June, July, and August maintaining high levels of around 323 to 338 hours. Interestingly, while the sunshine hours dip slightly in early autumn with 320 hours in September, the difference is minimal. By the end of the year, as November and December set in, sunshine reduces to 296 and 283 hours respectively, yet these figures still contribute to a reasonably bright winter compared to many other regions. Overall, São Vicente's climate offers an appealing blend of sunlight, with the peak months providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment of its pristine landscapes.
The UV Index in São Vicente, Cabo Verde, showcases significant levels of solar radiation throughout the year, with notably high values during the sunnier months. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 9, categorized as very high, indicating that individuals are at an increased risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the index climbs to 11, entering the extreme category, and remains at this elevated level through March and April, when it peaks at 13. This period requires strict sun protection measures, as the recommended burn time drops to 10 minutes.
As summer unfolds from May to August, the UV Index consistently stays at 12 or 13, marking the months with the highest sun exposure risks. Despite a slight decrease to 11 in October, the intensity remains significant. Interestingly, November and December witness a return to the 9 level, indicating very high UV conditions, and restoring a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, the data underscores the necessity for sun safety practices, particularly from February to October, ensuring that residents and visitors of São Vicente can enjoy the sun while safeguarding their skin from harmful UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
In São Vicente, Cabo Verde, daylight duration remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with a subtle increase noted during the spring and summer months. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable amount of sunlight as the island transitions from winter to spring. March marks the onset of longer days, increasing to 12 hours, a trend that continues into April and May, where daylight remains abundant and comfortably extends to 12 hours. This gradual accumulation of daylight culminates in the summer months of June and July, where residents can enjoy up to 13 hours of sunlight each day.
As summer fades into autumn, daylight duration begins to taper off once again, returning to 12 hours in August and September. By October, the hours decrease to 11, and this pattern persists through November and December. Overall, São Vicente experiences a balanced distribution of daylight, allowing for ample opportunities for outdoor activities, while the extended hours during mid-year provide a perfect backdrop for exploration and engagement with the island's natural beauty.
Mindelo, Cabo Verde enjoys a tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round. Average highs range from 20°C (68°F) in winter months to around 26°C (79°F) in the summer. Rainfall is minimal, with most precipitation occurring between August and September, while sunshine hours peak in May with about 349 hours. Visitors can expect comfortable temperatures and ample sunshine throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Mindelo climate.
In conclusion, São Vicente, Cabo Verde, boasts a climate characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and a consistent UV Index that necessitates careful sun protection measures. With its distinct wet and dry seasons, the island experiences minimal precipitation and a comfortable average of daylight hours, peaking during the summer months. These climatic features not only enhance the island's attractiveness for tourism and outdoor activities but also underscore the importance of understanding local weather patterns for the well-being of residents and visitors alike. As such, São Vicente stands out as a vibrant destination, offering both natural beauty and a favorable climate throughout the year.