Last updated: January 18, 2025
Orange Walk, Belize, experiences a tropical climate categorized under the Köppen-Geiger classification as Aw (Tropical savanna) and Am (Tropical monsoon). This region showcases a remarkable thermal range, with minimum temperatures dipping to 11°C (51°F) in February, while average conditions hover around a warm 27°C (81°F). Notably, April can see maximum temperatures soaring to a sweltering 40°C (104°F), highlighting the distinct seasonal variations that define the area's climate. These temperature patterns underscore the importance of this region's unique environmental dynamics and their implications for local ecosystems and agriculture.
In Orange Walk, Belize, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year, characterized by warm conditions and notable monthly variations. The climate begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums reach 13°C (56°F) and average around 24°C (75°F), gradually transitioning into warmer months. February experiences a slight drop in minimum temperatures to 11°C (51°F), accompanied by a peak average of 25°C (78°F) before March sees a mild rise. As spring progresses, April marks a significant temperature increase, with averages climbing to 28°C (83°F) and maximums hitting 40°C (104°F). The warmth persists into the summer, where temperatures stabilize around 28°C (83°F) in June through September, before a gradual cooling begins in October. The year concludes with temperatures dropping again, particularly in December, which sees minimums return to 11°C (53°F) yet maintains an average of 24°C (76°F). This pattern of fluctuating minimums and relatively consistent averages reflects the region's tropical climate and influences on local ecosystems and human activities.
Precipitation in Orange Walk, Belize, showcases a clear seasonal pattern, with distinct wet and dry periods throughout the year. The early months of the year, including January through March, experience relatively low rainfall, averaging 54 mm (2.1 in) in January and declining to 28 mm (1.1 in) by March. This period consists of fewer rainy days, encouraging drier conditions and allowing for outdoor activities. However, as April approaches, rainfall begins to escalate, with totals reaching 40 mm (1.6 in), signaling the onset of the rainy season, which peaks dramatically in June with an impressive 232 mm (9.1 in) accumulated over 23 days, marking the height of the precipitation cycle.
The summer months of July to October contribute significantly to the overall rainfall totals, where August alone receives 150 mm (5.9 in) and September follows closely with 175 mm (6.9 in), both characterized by consistent rainfall. October often stands out as one of the wettest months, accumulating 217 mm (8.6 in). Subsequently, precipitation begins to decline in November and December, leading to a more balanced distribution across the year. This dynamic precipitation pattern not only varies by month but also plays a crucial role in shaping the ecology and agricultural practices within the region.
In Orange Walk, Belize, sunshine duration demonstrates a clear seasonal trend that significantly influences the region's climate and outdoor activities. Starting from January, the sunshine hours gradually increase, with 225 hours in the first month and jumping to 275 hours by February. This upward trend continues through the spring months, peaking in May with an impressive 327 hours of sunlight. The late spring and early summer months, particularly March, April, and May, offer the most sun, providing excellent conditions for agriculture and tourism.
As summer progresses into June, the sunshine hours decrease to 275 hours, but still remain favorable for most outdoor activities. The subsequent months of July and August see a resurgence in sunlight, with 314 hours and 318 hours respectively, indicating a consistent availability of sunshine despite the onset of the rainy season. By autumn, the sunshine begins to wane, with hours averaging around 273 to 293 hours from September to November. Overall, the data reveals a clear pattern of increasing sunshine duration during the winter and spring, peaking in early summer, followed by a slight decrease as the region transitions towards the wetter months.
In Orange Walk, Belize, the UV Index presents significant insights into the intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. January kicks off the year with a UV Index of 9, indicating very high exposure levels, and the recommended burn time for unprotected skin is around 15 minutes. However, as the months progress, February experiences a sharp increase to an 11, and March reaches an extreme 13, reflecting the increasing sunlight and associated risks. April marks the peak UV Index at 14, maintaining extreme levels, while the summer months continue with readings of 13, reinforcing the need for sun protection during this period.
As the year transitions into autumn, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 12 in October and further decreasing to 9 in November, before finishing the year with an 8 in December. Notably, the burn time remains consistently short at 10 minutes during the peak summer months, emphasizing the importance of UV safety measures. The fluctuating UV Index highlights the necessity for residents and visitors alike to be vigilant about sun protection, particularly during the extreme exposure months when skin damage can occur rapidly.
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In Orange Walk, Belize, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, reflecting the tropical climate's influence on sunlight availability. During the winter months of January and February, residents enjoy about 11 hours of daylight, setting a baseline for the year. As the spring unfolds in March, this duration increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April and May, offering longer days ideal for both agricultural activities and recreational pursuits.
The summer months of June and July provide the longest daylight hours, reaching up to 13 hours, allowing for extended periods of outdoor engagement. However, as summer progresses into late summer and autumn, daylight hours gradually decrease to 12 hours in August and September, and back to 11 hours by October. This reduction in daylight continues into winter as November and December also feature 11 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only highlights the shifts between seasons but also underscores the need for residents and visitors to adapt their schedules to maximize their time in the sunshine throughout the year.
Carmelita, Belize experiences a tropical climate with varying temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. Temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in April and May, with an average temperature generally between 24°C (75°F) and 29°C (84°F). Rainfall peaks in June with 232 mm (9.1 in) and is relatively low in March at only 29 mm (1.1 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in March and May, with around 330 hours of sun during these months. For more detailed information, visit Carmelita climate.
Douglas, Belize experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in April, with the warmest months typically being April and May. Rainfall is prevalent during the wet season from June to October, peaking in June with 239 mm (9.4 in). Notably, Douglas enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, especially in March and April, which receive around 317-319 hours of sun. For more detailed climate information, visit Douglas climate.
The climate in Orange Walk, Belize, features a tropical pattern with warm temperatures year-round. Average daily temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in April and May. The rainy season peaks from June to October, with June receiving the most precipitation at 232 mm (9.1 in). Despite the rainfall, monthly sunshine hours remain high, peaking in May at 330 hours. For more detailed information, visit Orange Walk climate.
San Felipe, Belize experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January temperatures range from 14°C to 34°C, but the heat peaks in April and May, with maximums soaring to 40°C (104°F) and 38°C (101°F), respectively. The rainy season begins in June, bringing significant rainfall, peaking at 220 mm (8.7 in) in June and continuing with high precipitation into October. Notably, sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and May, with over 300 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed climate information, visit San Felipe climate.
San Jose, Belize boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. January sees minimums around 13°C (56°F) and maximums hitting 34°C (94°F), while the hottest months, April and May, reach up to 38°C (101°F). Rainfall varies, peaking in June at 239 mm (9.4 in), and the dry season runs from late December to February. Additionally, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May receiving the most hours at 332. For more details, visit San Jose climate.
The climate in Shipyard, Belize, features warm temperatures year-round, with average highs peaking at 40°C (104°F) in April. The months of May to October are marked by increased precipitation, particularly in June, which experiences up to 230 mm (9.1 in) of rainfall. Sunshine is abundant, especially from February to May, where hours can reach over 300. The cooler months of December and January provide a pleasant respite, with temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 35°C (94°F). For more details, visit Shipyard climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Orange Walk, Belize, characterized by its tropical savanna and monsoon influences, presents a rich tapestry of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight patterns that collectively shape the region’s environment and lifestyle. With a notable range of temperatures and significant seasonal variations in rainfall, the data illustrates the lush growth cycles that support local agriculture. The high UV Index during peak months underscores the necessity for sun protection, while the consistent daylight duration provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic features not only enhances appreciation of this vibrant region but also informs sustainable practices vital for conserving its natural resources and supporting economic growth.