San Salvador sits within the Valle de las Hamacas at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet (680 meters). This altitude provides a significant reprieve from the crushing heat of the Pacific coast, creating an "upland tropical" climate where temperatures remain relatively stable, but humidity and rainfall dictate the rhythm of life.
The Two Dominant Seasons
Unlike temperate regions with four seasons, San Salvador is defined by two: Verano (Summer/Dry Season) and Invierno (Winter/Rainy Season).
- The Dry Season (November to April): This is characterized by clear blue skies and minimal precipitation. While the sun is intense, the early part of the season (November to January) is refreshed by the Vientos de Octubre—cool, brisk winds that signal the end of the rains. By March and April, the landscape browns, and temperatures reach their annual peak, often exceeding 90°F (32°C).
- The Rainy Season (May to October): The transition in May is abrupt, as moisture from the Pacific brings lush greenery back to the valley. Rainfall is rarely a day-long event; instead, it follows a predictable tropical pattern of sunny mornings followed by explosive, heavy thunderstorms in the late afternoon or evening. September is historically the wettest month, with frequent tropical depressions.
Daily Climate Cycle
In San Salvador, the time of day matters more than the month on the calendar.
- Morning (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Usually clear and crisp. Even in the rainy season, mornings are typically sunny, making this the most active time for locals.
- Midday (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): The vertical tropical sun is at its strongest. In the dry season, the heat feels "bright" and piercing; in the rainy season, this is when the humidity builds to "oppressive" levels.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): During Invierno, this is the window for dramatic downpours. Locals often pause their commutes to wait out the initial 30-minute deluge.
- Evening (8:00 PM – Late): Even after a hot day, the valley's elevation allows temperatures to drop to a comfortable 65°F–70°F (18°C–21°C).
Local Phenomena and Microclimates
- Los Vientos del Norte: From December to March, cool air masses from North America can reach El Salvador. These "Northers" bring a noticeable chill at night, occasionally dropping temperatures in the city to 55°F (13°C), a sensation locals treat as a true winter.
- The Volcano Effect: The San Salvador Volcano (El Boquerón) creates its own microclimate. As you ascend toward the crater, only minutes from the city center, the air becomes significantly cooler and cloudier, often shrouded in mist while the city below remains sunny.
- Oppressive Humidity: While the thermometer might say 85°F, the