Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Safi, Malta, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Csa, indicative of a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The temperature fluctuates notably throughout the year, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) recorded in February, an average comfortable 20°C (68°F), and peaking at a warm 31°C (87°F) in August. This temperature range reflects the region's distinct seasonal variations, contributing to its unique environmental and agricultural landscapes.
In Safi, Malta, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal progression, transitioning from mild winters to warm summers. January and February feature cooler temperatures, with minimums around 8°C (46°F) to 8°C (47°F), and average highs peaking at 22°C (71°F) in January, gradually declining in February. As spring approaches, March and April witness a slight increase, with minimums rising to 10°C (50°F) and 12°C (54°F), and averages reaching 15°C (59°F) in March before climbing to 16°C (61°F) in April. May marks the onset of significant warmth, dipping no lower than 14°C (58°F) and averaging 19°C (66°F). The summer months of June through August bring the highest temperatures, with July and August enjoying warm minimums of 21°C (71°F) and 23°C (74°F), respectively, and averages peaking at 26°C (78°F) in July and 27°C (81°F) in August. As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to cool, with September maintaining warmth before gradually decreasing through October and November, ultimately returning to winter-like conditions by December with minimums around 10°C (49°F) and averages of 16°C (61°F).
Safi experiences a mild climate with February temperatures dropping to a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and rising to a maximum of 31°C (87°F) in August. This range highlights the comfortable winter months and the warmer summer days typical of the region. For a detailed overview of the monthly temperature variations, visit monthly temperatures in Safi.
Precipitation in Safi, Malta, showcases a distinct seasonal pattern, primarily characterized by wetter months in late autumn and winter. January and February receive relatively high rainfall, with 42 mm (1.6 in) and 47 mm (1.9 in), respectively, and precipitation occurring over 8 and 6 days. As spring arrives, rainfall decreases dramatically, plummeting to 9 mm (0.3 in) in April and a mere 6 mm (0.2 in) in May, resulting in only a couple of rainy days throughout the latter spring months. By June and July, the region experiences minimal precipitation, with July often remaining entirely dry.
The onset of autumn brings an increase in rainfall again, particularly notable in October, with an impressive 119 mm (4.7 in) recorded over 9 days, followed closely by 112 mm (4.4 in) in November. September signals this transition with 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain spread over 5 days. December receives 59 mm (2.3 in), indicating a continuation of the wetter trend as winter approaches, characterized by varying rainfall amounts throughout the month. This seasonal variability in precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping local agriculture and the overall climate experience in Safi.
In Safi, Malta, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a gradual increase from winter to summer. Starting with 221 hours of sunshine in January, the daylight hours steadily rise as spring approaches, peaking in March with 338 hours and reaching a high of 353 hours in April. May continues this upward trajectory, with sunshine hours totaling 393. This trend culminates in the summer months, where June marks a record of 397 hours, followed closely by July with 412 hours, the pinnacle of sunshine exposure for the year. August sees a slight decline to 392 hours, yet it remains among the sunniest months.
As autumn sets in, the duration of sunshine begins a gradual taper, reflecting the seasonal transition. September records 339 hours, which demonstrates a noticeable drop compared to the peak summer months, followed by 319 hours in October and further declining to 274 hours in November. December rounds out the year with 273 hours, suggesting that while winters are comparatively sunnier, they still shy away from the brilliant sunshine of summer. This seasonal contrast highlights not only the region's abundant sunshine but also its variability, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities and tourism during the warmer months.
The UV Index in Safi, Malta, exhibits a pronounced seasonal variation, reflecting the intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. Starting with a moderate UV Index of 4 in January and 5 in February, the early months signal safe sun exposure with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring unfolds, the UV Index escalates, reaching 7 in March with a burn time of just 25 minutes. April and May present very high UV levels of 9, necessitating shorter exposure times of 15 minutes to prevent sunburn. This increasing trend continues into the summer months, where June sees a peak of 10 and July hits 11, the highest intensity measured, categorized as extreme, with a critical burn time of only 10 minutes.
As autumn arrives, the UV Index gradually declines but remains significant. August also registers a very high level of 10, then tapers to 9 in September, maintaining the importance of sun protection with a burn time of 15 minutes. The UV Index drops to 7 in October, marking a return to the high exposure category. By November and December, the levels fluctuate between 4 and 3, returning to moderate exposure conditions with a burn time of 30 minutes. This variance underscores the need for increased caution during the summer months while highlighting the relatively lower risk associated with sun exposure during the winter.
UV Risk Categories
In Safi, Malta, daylight duration varies notably throughout the year, reflecting a predictable seasonal cycle. During the winter months of January and February, residents experience about 10 hours of daylight, providing a stable but limited exposure to sunlight. As spring approaches, daylight increases to 11 hours in March, then sharply rises to 13 hours in April, setting the stage for longer days ahead. May marks a highlight with 14 hours of daylight, a duration that persists into June and July, offering ample time for outdoor activities and exploration.
As summer wanes into autumn, daylight gradually begins to recede, transitioning to 13 hours in August and 12 hours in September. October sees a further decline to 11 hours, followed by the return of shorter days in November, which sees a drop back to 10 hours. December concludes the year with the least amount of daylight, at just 9 hours, marking the winter solstice. This rhythmic pattern of daylight exposure plays a crucial role in shaping the daily activities and lifestyle of residents in Safi, emphasizing the importance of the sun's presence throughout the seasons.
Safi, Malta, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a low of 8°C (47°F) in January to a high of 31°C (87°F) in August, with minimal precipitation, particularly in the summer months where July sees virtually no rainfall. The area experiences significant sunshine, peaking in July with 412 hours, while October and November are the wettest months with over 100 mm of rain. Overall, Safi's climate offers a pleasant mix of warmth and sunshine throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Safi climate.
In conclusion, the climatic characteristics of Safi, Malta, reveal a captivating tapestry of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight variation throughout the year. With warm summers showcasing peak temperatures and abundant sunshine, the region becomes a vibrant destination for outdoor activities. Conversely, the milder winters bring cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, creating a unique seasonal rhythm. Residents and visitors alike must remain mindful of UV radiation, particularly during the summer months when exposure can reach extreme levels. All these elements combined not only highlight the region's Mediterranean charm but also emphasize the importance of adapting to seasonal changes in order to fully embrace the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle that Safi has to offer.