Las Palmas Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Spain

General Climate

Las Palmas, a vibrant city located on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain, boasts a subtropical climate that offers both warm and temperate conditions throughout the year. The city experiences minimal rainfall, making it an appealing destination for sun-seekers and beach enthusiasts alike. With average temperatures hovering around 20-24°C (68-75°F), Las Palmas offers a comfortable climate year-round, inviting visitors to explore its many attractions and amenities.

Seasonal Variations

The summer months in Las Palmas, from June to September, are characterized by warm and dry conditions. Temperatures soar to an average of 24-27°C (75-81°F), providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports. The winter months, from December to February, are typically milder, with average temperatures ranging from 18-21°C (64-70°F). While some precipitation is possible during these months, the city still sees plenty of sunshine. In spring and autumn, the weather transitions gradually, offering a mix of warm and cool temperatures.

Average Temperature in Las Palmas, Spain

Las Palmas, the vibrant capital city of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, enjoys a subtropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature in Las Palmas is around 20.5°C (68.9°F). The winters are pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15.5°C (59.9°F) in January to 17.5°C (63.5°F) in February. During the summer months, temperatures soar to an average of 24.5°C (76.1°F) in August.

The city experiences minimal temperature fluctuations, as the ocean currents help regulate the climate. The warmest months are July, August, and September, with average temperatures hovering around 24-25°C (75.2-77°F). The coldest months are December, January, and February, with average temperatures ranging from 15.5-17.5°C (59.9-63.5°F). Las Palmas is known for its refreshing trade winds, which provide a welcome respite from the occasional humidity during the summer months. The city’s subtropical climate makes it an ideal year-round destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Cloud Cover and Distribution

Las Palmas, Spain, located on the Canary Islands, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by warm, sunny weather year-round. However, cloud cover plays a significant role in shaping the city’s weather conditions. The frequency and extent of cloud cover vary seasonally, with summer months typically having the least cloud cover and winter months having the most. In general, the cloud cover is lighter in the morning and tends to increase towards the afternoon and evening.

Cloud Types

The types of clouds observed in Las Palmas include cumulus, stratus, and cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds are characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance and are typically associated with fair weather. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, are low, uniform clouds that often cover the entire sky, resulting in overcast conditions. Cirrus clouds are high, thin clouds made of ice crystals and are usually associated with stable weather. Other cloud types, such as altostratus and altocumulus, may also be occasionally observed. The distribution and coverage of these cloud types influence the amount of sunlight reaching the ground and, consequently, the temperature and precipitation patterns in Las Palmas.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Las Palmas, Spain experiences distinct seasonal precipitation patterns influenced by its coastal location and subtropical climate. During the summer months (June to September), precipitation is scarce due to the presence of a subtropical high-pressure system over the region. This system creates a stable atmospheric environment with minimal convective activity, resulting in dry and sunny conditions. As a result, Las Palmas receives only around 20-30 mm of monthly rainfall during this period.

Winter Precipitation

In contrast, the winter months (December to February) bring a significant increase in precipitation due to the influence of mid-latitude cyclones and the polar jet stream. These weather systems often bring cold fronts and associated precipitation to the region. Las Palmas experiences its wettest months during this season, with average monthly rainfall ranging between 50-100 mm. The precipitation is typically more frequent and persistent than in the summer, leading to occasional heavy rainfall events.

Precipitation Patterns

Las Palmas, located on the island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands, enjoys a pleasant year-round climate with ample sunshine and a lack of extreme temperatures. Despite its coastal location, rainfall in Las Palmas is relatively scarce, with an average annual precipitation of just 150 millimeters (6 inches). The city experiences a distinct dry season from June to September, during which rainfall is negligible. Conversely, the winter months, particularly December and January, witness the highest precipitation, accounting for nearly half of the annual rainfall.

Influence of Climate and Geography

The aridity of Las Palmas can be attributed to its geographic location and the prevailing climate patterns. The city is situated in the rain shadow of Mount Teide, a towering volcano on Tenerife, the neighboring island. As moist air from the Atlantic Ocean rises over Mount Teide, it cools and condenses, releasing its moisture as precipitation on the windward side of the mountain. By the time the air reaches Las Palmas, it has largely depleted its moisture, resulting in the city’s characteristically low rainfall. Additionally, the Canarian Current, a cold ocean current that flows along the west coast of Africa, acts as a deterrent to cloud formation and precipitation.

Unprecedented Occurrences: Snowfall in Las Palmas, Spain

On January 24, 2023, an extraordinary event occurred in Las Palmas, Spain, when heavy snowfall blanketed the city. This remarkable phenomenon, which had never been recorded in the city’s history, astonished residents and made international headlines. The snowfall, a result of an unusually cold front and an unstable air mass, caused widespread disruption to transportation and daily life.

The snowfall, ranging in depth from a few centimeters to over 10 centimeters in some areas, accumulated on streets, cars, and buildings, creating a surreal winter wonderland where palm trees were adorned with a pristine layer of white. With the city’s lack of both snow removal equipment and snowfall preparedness, the unexpected snowfall presented significant challenges for residents attempting to navigate the icy conditions. While the snowfall brought joy and excitement to many, it also raised concerns about the well-being of the city’s vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless and elderly.

Sunshine Duration

Las Palmas, the capital city of Gran Canaria in Spain, is renowned for its year-round sunshine. The city boasts an average of over 3,200 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest places in Europe. The most sunshine occurs during the summer months, with an average of 12 hours of direct sunlight per day. Even during the winter months, Las Palmas experiences an average of 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Impact on Tourism

The abundance of sunshine has a significant impact on tourism in Las Palmas. The city’s beaches, such as the popular Las Canteras, offer ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and other outdoor activities. The warm and sunny climate also attracts visitors seeking respite from colder climates. Many tourists flock to Las Palmas during the winter months to enjoy the milder temperatures and sunshine, making it a popular destination for both beach and city breaks.

Moon’s Appearance and Visibility in Las Palmas

In Las Palmas, Spain, the Moon presents a captivating celestial spectacle throughout the year. Its appearance and visibility vary depending on its phase and time of night. During a new moon, the Moon is not visible as it lies between the Earth and the Sun. As the Moon waxes, it transforms into a crescent and gradually grows in size, offering a glimpse of its illuminated side. During the full moon, the entire face of the Moon is illuminated, making it the most visible and awe-inspiring celestial body in the night sky.

Impact of the Moon on Las Palmas

The Moon’s gravitational pull exerts a significant influence on Las Palmas. Its gravitational forces affect the tides, leading to high and low water levels twice a day. The gravitational interactions between the Moon and the Earth also influence the Earth’s rotation, causing a slight wobble known as the lunar precession. Additionally, the Moon reflects sunlight back to Earth, providing a natural source of illumination at night. This lunar light can alter the visibility of stars and other celestial objects, casting a soft glow on the landscape of Las Palmas.

Average Humidity Levels

Las Palmas, Spain, experiences relatively consistent humidity levels throughout the year, ranging from around 50% to 70%. The highest humidity levels typically occur during the summer months (June to August), when average humidity values hover around 65%-70%. These elevated humidity levels can contribute to a feeling of mugginess and discomfort, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Conversely, during the winter months (December to February), humidity levels drop slightly to around 50%-55%, providing a more comfortable outdoor environment.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Las Palmas exhibits seasonal variations in humidity due to changes in atmospheric conditions. During the summer, warm and humid air from the Atlantic Ocean is drawn into the city, leading to higher humidity levels. Additionally, the lack of strong winds during this time of year allows moisture to accumulate in the air, further contributing to the humid conditions. In contrast, during the winter months, colder and drier air masses from the north prevail, resulting in lower humidity levels. These air masses often bring clear skies and reduced moisture content, creating a more comfortable and less humid climate.

Wind Patterns

Las Palmas, Spain, is known for its year-round trade winds, which originate in the subtropical high-pressure belt and blow towards the equator. These gentle winds, typically ranging from 10-15 knots, provide a pleasant and cooling breeze, especially during the summer months. The prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, although it can occasionally shift to the east or southeast.

Impact on Climate and Tourism

The trade winds play a significant role in shaping the climate of Las Palmas. They moderate temperatures, preventing extreme heat or cold, and contribute to the city’s low humidity levels. The constant airflow also helps to disperse air pollution, resulting in excellent air quality. As a result, Las Palmas is considered a great destination for individuals with respiratory conditions. Additionally, the winds create ideal conditions for water sports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, adding to the city’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Ideal Travel Period

The Canary Islands, including Las Palmas, experience enviable year-round weather, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season. However, for optimal beach enjoyment and outdoor activities, the months from May to October present the most favorable conditions, offering warm temperatures and sunshine. During this time, visitors can revel in the sun-kissed beaches, indulge in water sports, and explore the natural beauty of the island without facing extreme heat or unpredictable weather.

Spring and Autumn Delight

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer a delightful blend of pleasant temperatures, making them excellent times to visit Las Palmas. In spring, the city awakens from its winter slumber, adorned with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. Temperatures average a comfortable 20-25 degrees Celsius, allowing for leisurely strolls, outdoor dining, and exploring the historical charm of the city. Autumn brings a refreshing escape from the summer crowds, with temperatures slightly cooler around 18-23 degrees Celsius. The streets come alive with vibrant hues as the foliage transforms, creating a picturesque atmosphere for leisurely walks and cultural immersion.

Solar Resource

Las Palmas, Spain enjoys an abundant solar resource. The city receives an average of 2,800 sunshine hours annually, equivalent to 1,900 kWh/m2 of solar radiation per year. This favorable climate makes Las Palmas an ideal location for solar energy production. The high level of solar insolation allows for the efficient conversion of sunlight into electricity or thermal energy.

Solar Energy Production and Utilization

Las Palmas has witnessed a significant growth in solar energy production in recent years. Numerous solar photovoltaic (PV) installations have been deployed across the city, contributing to the local renewable energy mix. The city has also invested in solar thermal systems, which utilize sunlight to heat water for domestic and industrial purposes. The adoption of solar energy has helped Las Palmas reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, promote sustainable development, and contribute to the national renewable energy goals.

Relief of the Island

Las Palmas, the capital city of the Spanish island of Gran Canaria, is located on the northeastern coast of the island. Gran Canaria is a volcanic island, and its topography is characterized by a rugged and mountainous interior, with several volcanic peaks and ridges. The highest point on the island is Pico de las Nieves, which rises to an elevation of 1,949 meters (6,394 feet) above sea level. The northern and eastern parts of the island are more mountainous, while the southern and western parts are flatter and more arid.

Coastal Features

The coastline of Las Palmas is varied, with long stretches of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and small bays. The city itself is located on a narrow peninsula, which is connected to the rest of the island by the Isthmus of Guanarteme. The peninsula is dominated by the Santa Catalina Hill, which rises to a height of 120 meters (394 feet) above sea level. The hill is a popular viewpoint, and offers panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains. The coast of Las Palmas is also dotted with several small islands, including the Isla de Lobos, which is a popular tourist destination.

Gran Canaria Airport

Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), also known as Gando Airport, is the main airport serving Las Palmas and the island of Gran Canaria, Spain. It is located just 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Las Palmas city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 handling domestic and European flights, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to international flights. Gran Canaria Airport offers a wide range of destinations, including direct flights to major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Canary Islands. The airport also has excellent connectivity to other parts of Spain, making it a convenient hub for onward travel.

Facilities and Services

Gran Canaria Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport that offers a variety of facilities and services to enhance the travel experience for passengers. These include a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as duty-free shopping. The airport also has several lounges, including VIP lounges for premium passengers. In addition, Gran Canaria Airport provides a number of services to make travel easier, such as currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi. The airport is also fully accessible for passengers with disabilities, with ramps, elevators, and disabled toilets available throughout the terminals.

Culture and History

Las Palmas, the vibrant capital of Gran Canaria, boasts a rich tapestry of culture and history that spans centuries. Founded in 1478, the city served as a key trading and naval hub for the Spanish monarchy. Today, its cobbled streets and charming architecture reflect its colonial past, with emblematic landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Ana showcasing the city’s Gothic-Renaissance heritage. Las Palmas is also a renowned cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the iconic Carnival, known for its flamboyant floats and lively parades.

Beaches and Natural Beauty

Beyond its cultural charms, Las Palmas is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The city is blessed with a stunning coastline featuring pristine beaches such as Las Canteras, an urban oasis known for its calm waters and golden sands. Along the coast, visitors can explore the majestic volcanic landscapes of the Roque Nublo Natural Park, home to towering rock formations and breathtaking views of the island’s rugged interior. The city’s surroundings also offer an array of hiking and biking trails, providing opportunities to immerse oneself in the unspoiled natural beauty of Gran Canaria.