Last updated: January 18, 2025
The Southern District of Belize exemplifies the Köppen-Geiger climate classification labeled as Af, characterizing it as a tropical rainforest climate. This region experiences a diverse temperature range, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) recorded in February, gradually rising to an average of 27°C (80°F). The warmth peaks in May, reaching a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Such fluctuations in temperature not only define the local weather patterns but also significantly influence the region's rich biodiversity and agricultural practices.
In the Southern District of Belize, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by a gradual warming trend leading into the summer months. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums dip to 17°C (64°F) and averages hover around 25°C (76°F). As February unfolds, temperatures slightly decline further, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F), but average and maximum readings begin to rise, marking the approach of warmer weather. March and April maintain steady warmth, with maxima reaching around 34°C (94°F) by the latter month. May signals the peak of the heat, with a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Following this hot spell, temperatures stabilize during the summer months of June through September, showing slight fluctuations but remaining consistently warm, as lows stay around 24°C (75°F). The transition into fall brings a gradual cooling trend, with November and December noticing a return to averages of 26°C (79°F) and 25°C (77°F), while minimums dip into the comfortable range of 19°C (67°F) and 18°C (64°F), suggesting a gentle shift back to cooler conditions.
Independence and Mango Creek experience a temperature range of 16°C (61°F) in February to 35°C (96°F) in May, offering a warm tropical climate. In comparison, Dangriga has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in February and a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in August. Meanwhile, Placencia enjoys consistently mild conditions, ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in January to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in October. For more detailed insights, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Independence and Mango Creek, Dangriga, and Placencia.
Precipitation patterns in the Southern District of Belize exhibit a clear seasonal distribution, marked by a pronounced wet season that commences in late spring and extends through the fall months. January starts relatively damp with 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain over 17 days, gradually declining into February with 71 mm (2.8 in). As the year progresses, March and April experience moderate rainfall, amounting to 83 mm (3.3 in) and 62 mm (2.4 in) respectively, which sets the stage for the heavy rains of May. May marks a significant uptick in precipitation with 148 mm (5.8 in), coinciding with an increase in rainy days to 24.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from June to October, with June experiencing the highest precipitation at 294 mm (11.6 in) over 28 days. This is closely followed by August and October, which register 283 mm (11.1 in) and a substantial 341 mm (13.4 in), respectively. This trend showcases the region's climatic shift, leading to higher moisture levels and frequent rains, which contribute to the lush vegetation typical of tropical environments. Following this wet period, precipitation begins to taper off in November and December, recording 246 mm (9.7 in) and 114 mm (4.5 in) respectively, indicating a transition back to dryer conditions just in time for the new year.
In the Southern District of Belize, sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal pattern, with a steady increase in hours from the winter months leading into the summer. Starting from January, the region experiences 232 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises through February with 278 hours and continues its ascent into March, boasting a peak of 320 hours. This upward trend is maintained through April and May, where sunshine hours reach 317 and 324 hours, respectively, highlighting the transition into a vibrant dry season characterized by abundant sunshine and warmth.
As the summer months approach, the hours of sunshine remain high, peaking in August at 321 hours, just slightly above July's total of 316 hours. The sunny weather allows for a continuation of outdoor activities and agricultural productivity during this period. However, by October, sunshine hours begin to taper off, settling at 288 hours as the wet season nears. Despite this decrease, the region still enjoys a robust amount of sunlight, with November and December bringing 278 hours and 292 hours respectively. Overall, the seasonal fluctuations in sunshine duration reflect the tropical climate of the area, making it a year-round destination for those seeking warmth and brightness.
The UV Index in the Southern District of Belize highlights a significant variation throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate and sun exposure levels. Beginning in January, the UV Index stands at 10, categorized as "very high," indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index escalates sharply, peaking at 14 in April and August, both marked as "extreme," with a minimal burn time of 10 minutes. This period of heightened UV radiation underscores the need for effective sun protection, particularly during midday hours when exposure is most intense.
As the year progresses into late fall and winter, there is a noticeable decline in UV levels, with November and December recording values of 9 and 8, both categorized as "very high," yet allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. This seasonal reduction offers a slight respite from the extreme levels experienced in the summer months, though vigilant sun safety remains crucial. Overall, the high UV Index throughout most of the year in the Southern District emphasizes the importance of sun protection, particularly in the height of the summer where prolonged exposure can lead to skin damage in mere minutes.
UV Risk Categories
In the Southern District of Belize, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, influenced by its tropical latitude. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities during the cooler months. As spring approaches, the duration gradually begins to increase, reaching 12 hours in March, and this length is maintained through April and May, marking a transition into the warmer sunny season where extended hours of daylight are often associated with vibrant outdoor life.
By June, daylight duration peaks at 13 hours, allowing for plenty of sunlight to accompany the summer's heat and humidity. However, as the region transitions back into fall, daylight begins to decrease slightly, dropping back to 12 hours in July, August, and September. Subsequently, daylight reduces to 11 hours again from October through December, closing the year much as it began. This consistent pattern of daylight duration reflects the region's subtropical climate, making it a prime location for year-round activities under plenty of sunlight.
Dangriga, Belize, features a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (83°F). The warmest months are April to September, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F) and significant rainfall, particularly in June and October, when monthly precipitation can exceed 280 mm (11.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, peaking in March and May with over 320 hours per month. Visitors can enjoy a mix of sun and rain, making it a vibrant destination. For more detailed information, check the Dangriga climate.
The climate in Independence and Mango Creek, Belize, is characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in February to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in May, with consistent warmth throughout the year. Rainfall is most abundant from June to October, with June receiving the highest precipitation at 268 mm (10.5 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in March and May, with over 320 hours of sunshine recorded. For further details, please visit Independence and Mango Creek climate.
Placencia, Belize enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, ranging from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in January to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in October. The wet season peaks from June to October, witnessing heavy rainfall, particularly in October with 417 mm (16.4 in). Sunshine is abundant, with March and May providing over 320 hours of sun, ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information about the weather patterns, visit Placencia climate.
In summary, the Southern District of Belize exhibits a diverse climate characterized by distinct temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight patterns that collectively shape the region’s environment and lifestyle. With a predominantly tropical rainforest climate, seasonal temperature variations enhance biodiversity and agricultural richness while fostering a vibrant outdoor culture. The pronounced wet season, marked by high precipitation levels from May through October, nurtures lush vegetation but necessitates careful sun protection during the extreme UV index months. Overall, the ample sunshine and stable daylight duration throughout the year underscore the area's appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike, highlighting the importance of understanding these climatic factors for both residents and visitors.