São Marcos da Serra Weather Today

São Marcos da Serra, Portugal: A Guide to its Climate and Weather

Welcome to São Marcos da Serra, a charming village located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. This guide will provide you with detailed information about the climate and weather in São Marcos da Serra throughout the year. Whether you are planning a visit or considering relocating to this picturesque location, understanding the local climate will help you make informed decisions.

Geographical Location and Topography

São Marcos da Serra is situated in the central part of the Algarve region, approximately 32 kilometers northwest of the popular coastal city of Albufeira. Nestled in the foothills of the Serra de Monchique mountain range, the village enjoys a unique microclimate influenced by its elevated position.

Climate Classification

São Marcos da Serra experiences a Mediterranean climate, also known as a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Csb) according to the Köppen climate classification system. This classification indicates mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

Temperature

The temperature in São Marcos da Serra varies throughout the year, with distinct seasonal differences. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and relatively wet. The table below provides average monthly temperature data:

As the table shows, temperatures in São Marcos da Serra reach their peak during July and August, with average highs of around 26°C. Winters are generally mild, with average highs ranging from 13°C in January and February to 16°C in December.

Precipitation

São Marcos da Serra experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the majority of precipitation occurring during the winter months. The table below illustrates the average monthly precipitation in millimeters:

As shown in the table, São Marcos da Serra experiences the highest precipitation levels during the winter months, particularly in December and January, with an average of 71mm and 66mm respectively. The summer months, such as June, July, and August, receive significantly less rainfall, with averages ranging from 1mm to 6mm.

Sunshine Hours

São Marcos da Serra benefits from a generous amount of sunshine throughout the year. The table below showcases the average number of sunshine hours per day:

As indicated in the table, São Marcos da Serra experiences the highest number of daily sunshine hours in July and August, with an average of 12 hours per day. The winter months, such as January and December, have fewer sunshine hours, averaging around 6 hours per day.

Winds

São Marcos da Serra is generally sheltered from strong winds due to its inland location and the protection offered by the surrounding mountains. However, during certain periods, the region can experience the effects of the Levante and the Poniente winds. The Levante wind is an easterly wind that brings warm, dry air from the Mediterranean Sea, while the Poniente wind is a westerly wind that brings cooler, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean.

Conclusion

São Marcos da Serra, Portugal, enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The village experiences moderate rainfall, particularly during the winter months, and benefits from a generous amount of sunshine throughout the year. With its picturesque surroundings and favorable climate, São Marcos da Serra offers residents and visitors an ideal destination to enjoy nature and outdoor activities all year round.