Climate
Although Sardinia has a typical Mediterranean climate, the seasons are very distinct and there are relatively high temperature differences throughout the year.
The summer and thus the tourist season is only short. It is not until May that the water temperatures slowly begin to rise and by September the air already cools down noticeably.
The summers are dominated by subtropical high-pressure areas, while in winter low pressure areas reach from the Atlantic to the island.
This makes the summers hot and dry and the winters generally cold and damp.
Because of the influence of the sea, Sardinia’s climate is described as a Mediterranean, moderate maritime climate.
The average annual temperature is 17°C. In summer, especially in the south, the temperature can rise above 45°C; in winter, frost and heavy snowfall occur in the mountains.
(In February 2012, temperatures as low as -17°C were recorded in Barbagia! In the Gennargentu area there was 160 cm of snow).
The uneven distribution of precipitation throughout the year led to the construction of reservoirs, on the one hand to drain the coastal marshes and on the other hand to have enough water available in the dry summer.
For the current weather report, I can recommend the website of 3B meteo. The site also has a mobile version and, in my experience, offers a very accurate forecast of temperatures, clouds and wind.
The winds
The Sardinian wind rose
Sardinia’s climate is also strongly influenced by the typical winds that prevail here:
The Ponente is a strong wind from the west. Now is a good time for photo tours, because there is clear visibility and the clouds are driven away.
In summer, it often brings pleasant, cooler temperatures.
The Scirocco blows from the southeast, bringing hot air and desert dust from the Sahara. Over the sea, it absorbs moisture, causing high temperatures and oppressive sultriness.
There are often heavy swells and poor view.
The Maestrale comes from the northwest. It usually only blows for a few days, but then it is very strong, sometimes with violent gusts.
In spring, it often brings cold air masses, but also stable weather with clear skies and good visibility.
Tramontana, Greco and Levante blow from northerly to easterly directions and usually bring dry weather. Then there are high waves and strong winds for surfing on the popular east coast.
The driven air masses accumulate on the mountains as well as on the steep coast in the Gulf of Orosei and form dense clouds there.
It is best not to plan any excursions there on such days – the clouds often persist all day.