If you’re planning a trip to Madrid during the summer months, you may be wondering what the weather will be like. One of the most significant factors that can affect your experience is humidity.
So, is Madrid humid in the summer? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Humidity?
Humidity is a measure of how much moisture is in the air. It can have a significant impact on how we feel, especially when it’s hot outside. When humidity levels are high, it can make the air feel heavy and sticky, and it can be more challenging to cool down since sweat doesn’t evaporate as quickly.
The Climate in Madrid
Madrid has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July, which is typically the hottest month of the year, is around 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). However, while Madrid can get quite hot during the summer months, it’s not typically very humid.
Relative Humidity
It’s important to note that there are different types of humidity measurements. One of these measurements is relative humidity (RH), which refers to how much moisture is in the air compared to how much it could hold at that temperature. RH is expressed as a percentage.
In Madrid during the summer months, RH levels tend to be around 30-40%, which means that while there may be some moisture in the air, it’s not considered particularly humid.
Dry Heat vs. Humid Heat
It’s also worth noting that dry heat can feel very different from humid heat. In areas with high humidity levels, sweat doesn’t evaporate as quickly from our skin since there’s already so much moisture in the air. As a result, we may feel hotter and stickier than we would in an area with low humidity levels.
In contrast, in areas with low humidity levels, sweat can evaporate quickly, which can help us cool down more effectively. Therefore, while Madrid may be hot during the summer months, it may not feel as uncomfortable as other areas with higher humidity levels.
What to Expect in Madrid During the Summer Months
While Madrid may not be particularly humid during the summer months, it’s still essential to take precautions to stay safe and comfortable in the heat. Here are some tips:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Avoid spending too much time outside during the hottest parts of the day (usually midday to early afternoon).
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Take advantage of air conditioning whenever possible.
The Bottom Line
While Madrid can get quite hot during the summer months, it’s not typically very humid. RH levels tend to be around 30-40%, which means that while there may be some moisture in the air, it’s not considered particularly humid. However, it’s still essential to take precautions to stay safe and comfortable in the heat by staying hydrated, avoiding midday sun exposure, and wearing appropriate clothing.