Last updated: January 18, 2025
Tarrafal, located in Cabo Verde, exhibits a BWh (hot desert) climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. The minimum temperature reaches a comfortable 18°C (65°F) in February, while the average temperature hovers around 23°C (74°F), providing pleasant weather for residents and visitors alike. The maximum temperature peaks at 29°C (84°F) in October, underscoring the region's warm and inviting environment. This climatic profile contributes to Tarrafal's unique ecological and cultural landscape.
In Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, temperature patterns reveal a clear seasonal rhythm, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. From January to April, temperatures gently fluctuate, with minimums ranging from 18°C (65°F) to 19°C (66°F), while average temperatures remain steady around 21-22°C (70-72°F). As spring transitions into summer, temperatures gradually rise; June marks a noticeable shift, with maximum temperatures reaching 26°C (80°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F) during August and October. The months of September and November maintain these warm conditions, highlighting a brief plateau before cooling slightly in December, with minimums returning to around 20°C (69°F). This consistent warmth throughout the year makes Tarrafal an appealing destination for those seeking a temperate climate.
Tarrafal experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, with February temperatures dipping to a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and peaking at a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in October. For a more detailed look at the monthly temperatures in Tarrafal, you can visit monthly temperatures in Tarrafal.
Precipitation in Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the late summer months. From January to June, the region experiences minimal rainfall, with January recording no precipitation at all and subsequent months seeing only sparse totals of 1 mm (0.0-0.1 in). This dry period further extends into early summer, maintaining Tarrafal's character as a generally arid region, conducive to sunny days and clear skies.
However, this dry spell gives way to a significant increase in rainfall beginning in July, peaking in August and September. During August, Tarrafal receives about 39 mm (1.6 in) of rain over approximately 8 days, while September experiences the highest monthly total at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 7 days. The precipitation tapers off in October, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) recorded, and subsequent months return to drier conditions, reinforcing the region's summer wet and winter dry climate dynamics.
In Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, sunshine duration showcases a distinct seasonal trend that underscores the region's appeal as a sun-soaked destination. Beginning in January with 242 hours of sunshine, the number steadily increases through the early months of the year, culminating in April when the hours reach a peak of 339 hours. This upward trajectory continues into May, with 355 hours of bright sunshine, making it the sunniest month. As summer approaches, sunshine duration remains consistently high, with 330 to 355 hours from June through August, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can bask in ample sunshine during the warmer months.
As the year progresses into the fall, there is a slight decline in sunshine hours, though totals remain commendable. September still offers 313 hours, while October experiences a moderate decrease to 322 hours. By November and December, sunshine duration dips to 290 and 287 hours, respectively, marking the transition to the cooler, wetter months. Despite these reductions, Tarrafal continues to enjoy a favorable climate with abundant sunshine, making it an attractive location year-round for sun enthusiasts.
The UV Index in Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, presents a significant consideration for sun safety throughout the year, particularly peaking during the spring and summer months. From January to April, the UV Index starts at 9, categorized as very high, signaling the need for careful sun exposure, with a burn time of around 15 minutes. This escalates sharply in February, reaching an extreme 11, and remains at the same robust level through March and April, where the index stabilizes at 13. These values indicate a heightened risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, encouraging residents and visitors to optimize their sun safety practices.
As summer rolls in, the UV Index remains consistently high, peaking at 14 in September, marking the pinnacle of UV intensity in Tarrafal. This extreme index level persists through the summer months, with values typically around 12 to 13, indicating that protective measures against sunburn should be prioritized. Following this peak, the UV Index gradually declines to 10 in November and back to 9 by December, transitioning into the cooler months. Despite this decrease, the year's overall trend emphasizes the importance of sun protection year-round, particularly during peak hours when UV radiation is at its strongest.
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In Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, daylight duration displays a consistent pattern throughout the year, characterized by relatively stable hours of sunlight. January and February each provide about 11 hours of daylight, giving way to a slight increase in March and April, where the days lengthen to 12 hours. This gradual rise continues into June, reaching a maximum of 13 hours. Such variations allow residents and visitors to enjoy extended outdoor activities, especially in the vibrant summer months.
As summer transitions into fall, daylight duration returns to 12 hours during July, August, and September, maintaining a balance between light and darkness. However, as the year winds down, daylight hours begin to taper off, reverting to 11 hours in October and consistently remaining at that level through November and December. This consistent daylight pattern enhances Tarrafal's charm, ensuring that visitors can relish the sunny, bright days that characterize this beautiful region year-round.
Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, enjoys a warm climate with average temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) in March and April to 26°C (79°F) in the hotter months of August and September. Rainfall is minimal, with the majority occurring in September, which averages 63 mm (2.5 in), while the rest of the year sees little precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 355 hours in May, ensuring plenty of bright days year-round. This combination of warm temperatures and sunshine makes Tarrafal a desirable destination for those seeking pleasant weather. For more detailed information, you can visit Tarrafal climate.
In conclusion, Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, stands out as a destination characterized by its warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and high UV exposure levels throughout the year. With its dry climate punctuated by seasonal rainfall and significant daylight duration, this region offers a harmonious blend of sunlit days and mild nights. The variation in weather patterns, particularly the striking increase in sunshine and UV Index during the summer months, presents both opportunities for outdoor activities and the necessity for sun safety precautions. Overall, Tarrafal's climate fosters an inviting environment that enhances its appeal to visitors seeking a vibrant and sunny getaway.