San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, experiences a unique climate that blends the tropical charm of Central America with distinct wet and dry seasons.
The temperature in San Salvador typically ranges from 63°F to 87°F year-round. This provides a warm and humid atmosphere that appeals to visitors seeking a tropical getaway.
With these stable temperatures, the city is a fascinating destination for those interested in a consistent warm climate.
The city’s climate can be divided into a wet season, warm and overcast, and a dry season, hot and mostly clear.
The wet season runs from May through October, characterized by plenty of rainfall and higher humidity levels.
Conversely, the dry season, spanning November to April, offers clearer skies with less humidity, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore.
Those planning a visit might find it helpful to break down the weather conditions by month.
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 86 | 65 | 0.2 |
| February | 88 | 65 | 0.2 |
| March | 89 | 67 | 0.5 |
| April | 89 | 69 | 1.2 |
| May | 86 | 70 | 6.3 |
| June | 84 | 70 | 9.9 |
| July | 84 | 69 | 6.2 |
| August | 84 | 69 | 6.9 |
| September | 83 | 69 | 9.8 |
| October | 83 | 68 | 8.3 |
| November | 84 | 67 | 1.8 |
| December | 85 | 65 | 0.5 |
Visiting during the dry months of January, February, March, and December can offer the most enjoyable weather conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
For more detailed climate information, charts, and monthly breakdowns, you can visit helpful resources like Weather Spark or Weather Atlas.
Average Temperature In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges between 63°F and 87°F.
The table below shows the average temperatures for each month:
| Month | Average Low (°F) | Average High (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 63 | 86 |
| February | 65 | 88 |
| March | 66 | 89 |
| April | 68 | 90 |
| May | 69 | 89 |
| June | 69 | 86 |
| July | 68 | 86 |
| August | 68 | 87 |
| September | 67 | 86 |
| October | 66 | 85 |
| November | 65 | 84 |
| December | 64 | 84 |
During the hottest month, April, the maximum temperature can reach up to 90°F. In contrast, the coldest month, January, sees cooler temperatures as low as 63°F.
San Salvador maintains a consistent average temperature of approximately 78°F throughout the year. This makes it a pleasant destination for tourists looking for warm weather.
For anyone interested in learning more about temperature variations, refer to the temperature page for further details.
The weather averages indicate little variation between the daily high and low temperatures, adding to the predictability of the climate.
Average Precipitation In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Rainfall patterns differ significantly throughout the year, but the city sees no snow.
Average Rainfall In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador has distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season lasts from mid-May to late October. During this time, daily rainfall often exceeds 0.04 inches.
September stands as the wettest month with an average of 13.8 days of rain.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) | Rainy Days (≥ 0.04 inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 0.2 | 1 |
| February | 0.1 | 0.7 |
| March | 0.1 | 1 |
| April | 1.3 | 4 |
| May | 6.2 | 13 |
| June | 9.2 | 20 |
| July | 7.7 | 18 |
| August | 8.1 | 21 |
| September | 10.6 | 22 |
| October | 7.6 | 18 |
| November | 1.8 | 6 |
| December | 0.4 | 2 |
The dry season begins in late October and lasts until mid-May. Rainfall during this period is minimal, with February being the driest month, typically seeing only 0.1 inches of rain.
Average Snow In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador’s tropical climate ensures that the city does not experience snowfall.
The consistently warm temperatures and the location near the equator mean that snow is not a weather phenomenon here.
The average low and high temperatures range from 65°F to 91°F throughout the year. This weather pattern supports lush vegetation and a vibrant ecosystem, but no snow is observed at any time of the year.
Average Sun In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, with clear skies being more common during the dry season.
The amount of daily shortwave solar energy varies significantly between seasons, providing a mix of sunny and cloudy days.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In San Salvador, El Salvador
In San Salvador, daily shortwave solar energy changes based on the season.
During the wet season, the presence of clouds often reduces the amount of solar energy. In contrast, the dry season sees clearer skies and more direct sunlight.
Here is the average daily shortwave solar energy by month:
| Month | Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 5.6 |
| February | 6.0 |
| March | 6.5 |
| April | 6.1 |
| May | 5.3 |
| June | 4.9 |
| July | 5.1 |
| August | 5.0 |
| September | 4.8 |
| October | 4.6 |
| November | 5.0 |
| December | 5.4 |
Average Humidity In San Salvador, El Salvador
Humidity is an important factor in San Salvador’s climate.
The relative humidity varies throughout the year, influencing how comfortable or muggy it feels.
In the wet season, from May to October, the humidity levels are notably higher.
During this period, the relative humidity can range between 70% to 85%, making the air feel quite muggy and oppressive.
In contrast, the dry season, running from November to April, has lower humidity levels.
Here, the relative humidity usually ranges from 60% to 70%. This makes the dry season feel less muggy and more comfortable.
Monthly Average Humidity (%)
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 67% |
| February | 66% |
| March | 64% |
| April | 66% |
| May | 74% |
| June | 79% |
| July | 77% |
| August | 78% |
| September | 80% |
| October | 81% |
| November | 75% |
| December | 70% |
Dew point temperatures are also a key measure.
Higher dew points indicate more moisture in the air.
During the wet season, dew points can be around 70°F.
In the dry season, the dew point falls, ranging between 60°F and 65°F. This lower dew point reflects a decrease in the moisture content of the air.
Average Wind In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.
The windiest month in San Salvador is January, with an average hourly wind speed of 9.1 miles per hour.
The calmest month is August, where the wind speed averages at 5.0 miles per hour. The rest of the year falls somewhere in between these extremes.
Here’s a breakdown of average wind speeds for a better understanding:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 9.1 |
| February | 8.6 |
| March | 7.8 |
| April | 6.7 |
| May | 5.5 |
| June | 5.2 |
| July | 5.4 |
| August | 5.0 |
| September | 5.3 |
| October | 5.9 |
| November | 6.7 |
| December | 8.0 |
The calm period generally lasts from April to November. This is when the wind speed drops and the climate feels less windy.
Wind speed can affect daily activities and outdoor plans.
Understanding the average wind speeds can help in planning activities like flying kites, sailing, or other wind-dependent sports.
Remember, wind conditions may also impact the sailing and outdoor events you may want to participate in during your stay.
Average Air Quality In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador’s air quality can vary greatly throughout the year. Here’s a look at the average air quality levels and what residents and visitors can expect.
Air Quality Index (AQI):
- The AQI in San Salvador often falls under the “Unhealthy” category for sensitive groups.
- On average, the AQI can reach levels ranging from 64 to 158.
Monthly Breakdown:
- January: AQI approximately 82
- February: AQI approximately 82
- March: AQI approximately 83
- April: AQI approximately 83
- May: AQI approximately 84
- June: AQI approximately 84
PM2.5 Levels:
- Particulate matter, or PM2.5, is a key pollutant here.
- In 2023, PM2.5 levels were on average 3.9 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual guideline value.
Weather Factors:
- Temperature can influence air quality.
- Average temperatures in San Salvador range from 81°F to 86°F, impacting the dispersion of pollutants.
- Water temperature in nearby areas remains steady, around 86°F.
Seasonal Trends:
- Air quality is generally worse during warmer months.
- Higher temperatures and lower pressures can lead to increased pollution levels.
Recommendations:
Residents, especially those sensitive to air quality changes, should take precautions during high AQI days. This may include staying indoors, using air purifiers, and wearing masks.
Topography of San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, sits in the Boquerón Volcano Valley. This location brings a unique and varied landscape.
The city has an average elevation of about 2,162 feet. Elevation in San Salvador ranges from 479 feet to 6,332 feet.
San Salvador is known for its high seismic activity, which means earthquakes are common. This is due to the city’s location in the shadow of the Boquerón Volcano.
Elevation Highlights
- Minimum Elevation: 479 ft
- Maximum Elevation: 6,332 ft
- Average Elevation: 2,162 ft
Terrain Features
- Mountains: Many mountains and peaks surround the city due to its position near volcanic activity.
- Plateaus: There are plateaus with varying altitudes providing unique vistas.
Climate Influences
The city’s climate is influenced by its elevation. Higher altitudes can be cooler, while lower areas remain warmer. The nearby Pacific Ocean, especially near Acajutla, also impacts the weather patterns.
Vegetation
The surrounding area includes savanna-type landscapes, adding to the region’s biodiversity. The mix of elevations supports various plant and animal species.
Key Locations
- Boquerón Volcano
- San Salvador Plateau
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador, the capital city of El Salvador, experiences various extreme weather events that can have significant impacts.
Flooding and Landslides
Flooding is common due to heavy rainfall, especially during the rainy season from May to October. The combination of steep terrain and intense rain can cause landslides.
In June 2024, Tropical Storm Amanda caused severe flooding and landslides in San Salvador, resulting in casualties and property damage (BBC).
Hurricanes
While El Salvador is not directly in the path of many hurricanes, the country can still feel their effects. Heavy rains and strong winds from nearby hurricanes can cause flooding and infrastructure damage, exacerbating the risk of landslides.
Volcanic Activity
The country is home to several volcanoes, such as the Chaparrastique and Santa Ana (Ilamatepec). The eruption of the Chaparrastique volcano in 2013 caused significant disruption east of San Salvador (World Nomads).
Summary by Month
| Month | Average Temp (°F) | Rainfall (inches) | Common Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 75 | 0.2 | Dry Season Begins |
| June | 76 | 12 | Flooding, Landslides |
| October | 75 | 10 | Heavy Rain, Landslides |
Best Time Of The Year To Visit San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador offers diverse experiences throughout the year, with each season having its own unique weather and attractions.
Visitors can enjoy warm temperatures in spring and summer, while the dry season in winter is perfect for outdoor activities.
What Is San Salvador, El Salvador Like In Spring
Spring in San Salvador lasts from March to May.
During this time, temperatures range from 70°F to 91°F.
March and April are part of the dry season, offering pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. By May, the transition to the rainy season begins, bringing occasional showers.
March: Temperatures average between 70°F and 91°F. Rainfall is minimal, making it great for hiking and exploring.
April: Similar to March, with temperatures around 70°F to 91°F. Outdoor conditions remain favorable.
May: Temperatures still range from 70°F to 90°F, but rainfall begins, especially towards the end of the month.
The mix of warm days and cool nights offers comfortable conditions for tourists.
What Is San Salvador, El Salvador Like In Summer
Summer in San Salvador is from June to August, coinciding with the rainy season. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, ranging from 69°F to 88°F.
Afternoons often see heavier downpours, while mornings may be clearer.
June: Average temperatures range from 70°F to 88°F. Rainfall increases significantly, often in the afternoons.
July: Similar to June with temperatures between 69°F and 87°F. Rain is frequent but often predictable.
August: Temperatures range from 69°F to 88°F. Afternoon showers are common, but the mornings are often enjoyable.
Tourists should plan indoor activities or carry rain gear for sudden showers.
What Is San Salvador, El Salvador Like In Fall
Fall runs from September to November. Early fall continues the rainy season, but by November, rainfall decreases significantly.
Temperatures during fall range from 68°F to 85°F.
September: Average temperatures are 68°F to 86°F. Rain is frequent and can sometimes be heavy.
October: Temperatures slightly drop from 68°F to 85°F. Rain starts to lessen, but still occurs.
November: The weather improves with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 84°F. Rainfall is minimal, marking the start of the dry season.
This period is less crowded with tourists, offering a quieter experience.
What Is San Salvador, El Salvador Like In Winter
Winter, from December to February, is part of the dry season.
Temperatures range between 68°F and 92°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities and tourism.
December:
Average temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F. Dry conditions prevail, ideal for exploring the city.
January:
Similar to December, with temperatures from 68°F to 86°F. Expect minimal rainfall.
February:
Temperatures start to rise, ranging from 68°F to 88°F. Dry and sunny conditions continue.
This period is considered the best time to visit El Salvador, providing ideal weather conditions for travel and exploration.