The Rainy Season in Cabo Verde

Overview of the Rainy Season in Cabo Verde

The rainy season in Cabo Verde typically spans from August to October. This period is characterized by short, intense bursts of rainfall, which contrast sharply with the predominantly dry conditions experienced throughout the rest of the year. The rains are often accompanied by increased humidity and occasional thunderstorms, contributing to a dramatic and dynamic climate that is both a blessing and a challenge for the archipelago.

Rainy Season in Different Areas

Flat Areas vs. Mountainous Areas

The impact of the rainy season varies significantly between the flat coastal areas and the more elevated, mountainous regions of the archipelago.

• Flat Coastal Areas: The flat coastal regions of Cabo Verde, such as those found on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, generally receive less rainfall than their mountainous counterparts. The rains here tend to be brief and less frequent, providing just enough moisture to sustain a sparse vegetation cover. This modest rainfall is crucial for recharging the limited groundwater reserves and supporting small-scale agriculture.

• Mountainous Areas: In contrast, the mountainous regions, particularly those on the islands of Santo Antão, Santiago, and Fogo, receive substantially more rainfall. These areas can experience more prolonged and heavier downpours, leading to lush, verdant landscapes that are quite distinct from the arid coastal plains. The mountains create microclimates that enhance precipitation, making these areas critical for local agriculture and water supply.

Rainy Season in the Barlavento Islands

The Barlavento (Windward) Islands, which include Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista, experience variability in rainfall during the rainy season.

• Santo Antão: Santo Antão, being one of the most mountainous islands, receives considerable rainfall, particularly in its northern and central regions. This island is known for its lush valleys and terraced agriculture, which benefit greatly from the seasonal rains.

• São Vicente and São Nicolau: These islands receive moderate rainfall during the rainy season, enough to sustain some agricultural activities and maintain a greener landscape compared to the dry majority of the year.

• Sal and Boa Vista: As predominantly flat islands, Sal and Boa Vista receive the least amount of rainfall in the Barlavento group. The rains here are sparse and infrequent, sufficient only for the minimal vegetation that characterizes their dry, desert-like landscapes.

Rainfall Amount and Distribution

The amount of rainfall in Cabo Verde during the rainy season can vary widely depending on the specific location and year. However, some general trends can be observed:

• Total Rainfall: Annual rainfall in Cabo Verde typically ranges from about 100 mm to 400 mm, with the majority falling during the rainy season. The islands with significant mountainous terrain, such as Santo Antão and Santiago, tend to receive the higher end of this range.

• Peak Rainfall Month: September is traditionally the rainiest month in Cabo Verde. During this time, the islands can receive the most significant portion of their annual rainfall, sometimes experiencing multiple days of intense downpours.

Explore the details of Cabo Verde's climate month by month 

Cabo Verde Weather January

Cabo Verde Weather February

Cabo Verde Weather March

Cabo Verde Weather April

Cabo Verde Weather Mai

Cabo Verde Weather June

Cabo Verde Weather July

Cabo Verde Weather August

Cabo Verde Weather September

Cabo Verde Weather October

Cabo Verde Weather November

Cabo Verde Weather December