Azores weather and climate 

The Weather and climate in the Azores

The Azores, a picturesque archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, are known for their unique climatic conditions, especially in Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel. Here, summers are short, warm and mostly dry, while winters are long, cool and windy. Temperatures vary between 13°C and 25°C throughout the year, with extreme highs and lows rarely exceeding 27°C or falling below 10°C. This creates a pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.

Factors Affecting the Climate in the Azores

The climate of the Azores is influenced by several factors, including its geographical location in the Atlantic Ocean, the altitude of the islands and the prevailing winds. The proximity to the ocean has a moderating effect on temperatures, making extreme weather conditions less common. The trade winds also play a role, bringing in moist air that can lead to rainfall in the fall and winter months. The volcanic activity of the islands also influences regional weather phenomena.

Overview of the weather in the individual months

1. January: Average maximum temperature: 17 °C, minimum temperature: 13 °C. Precipitation is about 52 mm with about 7.8 rainy days.
2. February: Maximum temperature: 17 °C, minimum temperature: 13 °C. It rains about 47 mm on about 6.3 days.
3. March: Maximum temperature: 17 °C, minimum temperature: 13 °C. Precipitation is about 41 mm over 6.3 days.
4. April: Maximum temperature: 18 °C, minimum temperature: 13 °C. Precipitation is about 35 mm on 5.2 rainy days.
5. May: Maximum temperature: 19 °C, minimum temperature: 15 °C. It rains about 24 mm on 4.2 days.
6. June: Maximum temperature: 21 °C, minimum temperature: 17 °C. Rainfall amounts to about 15 mm on 2.8 days.
7. July: Maximum temperature: 24 °C, minimum temperature: 19 °C. It is the driest month with only 6 mm of precipitation (1.3 days).
8. August: Maximum temperature: 25 °C, minimum temperature: 20 °C. Rainfall probability remains low with about 6 mm on 2.3 days.
9. September: Maximum temperature: 24 °C, minimum temperature: 19 °C. Rainfall reaches about 32 mm on 5.2 days.
10. October: Maximum temperature: 22 °C, minimum temperature: 17 °C. It rains on average 50 mm on about 7.3 days.
11. November: Maximum temperature: 19 °C, minimum temperature: 15 °C. Rainfall amounts to about 61 mm over 8 days.
12. December: Maximum temperature: 18 °C, minimum temperature: 14 °C. This is the wettest month with about 76 mm in 9.2 rainy days.

Climatic conditions in the four seasons

• Summer: The months from June to August are characterized by pleasant temperatures between 19 and 25 °C. With minimal rainfall, this is the best time for outdoor activities and beaches. Days are often sunny and clear.
• Autumn: September to November brings a gradual cooling with average temperatures between 19 and 24 °C. Rainy days increase, especially in October and November, which indicates the monthly peak in rainfall.
• Spring: In March and April, temperatures begin to rise again, fluctuating between 13 and 18 °C. Precipitation is moderate, with a race between dry and wet days.
• Winter: December to February brings cooler temperatures, rarely falling below 13 °C. These months are the wettest of the year, with high rainfall and stronger winds, making the winter months in Ponta Delgada considerably more changeable.

What is the best time to travel to the Azores ?

If you are planning a trip to the Azores, I particularly recommend visiting during the spring months or early autumn. At these times, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures and experience fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of the island's natural beauty.

Spring : Spring is an excellent choice, especially if you are interested in whale watching. During this season, impressive whales pass by the Azores, and the longer days provide more daylight hours for your activities. This is a fantastic opportunity not only to appreciate the stunning landscapes but also to experience the unique wildlife.

Early Autumn: Early autumn offers similar advantages to spring: mild weather and fewer tourists. This is an ideal time to explore the region without the hustle and bustle of peak season, while also witnessing the natural scenery in autumnal colors.

Summer Months: The summer months, from July to September, are also appealing; they provide stable weather and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. However, these months can be the busiest, so you may find yourself navigating larger crowds during the high season. If you prefer to avoid crowds, the spring or early autumn would be better options.

Weather Preparedness: Be aware that the weather in the Azores can be quite unpredictable. It is not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single day. Regardless of the time of year, be sure to pack a raincoat to prepare for varying conditions.