Last updated: January 18, 2025
Toledo, Belize, exhibits a distinctive tropical climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Am (Monsoonal) and Af (Tropical rainforest). The region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) recorded in February and soaring highs of 39°C (103°F) in April. The annual average temperature hovers around 26°C (79°F), creating an inviting climate that supports diverse ecosystems and vibrant local culture. This unique climatic profile makes Toledo a notable area for both ecological study and tourism in Central America.
Toledo, Belize, experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations throughout the year. The cooler months from January to March feature mild temperatures, with minimums ranging from 13°C (55°F) in February to 16°C (61°F) in March, and average highs reaching 35°C (95°F) by the end of March. As April approaches, a noticeable warming trend occurs, peaking in temperature with impressive highs of 39°C (103°F). By May and June, average temperatures stabilize around 28°C (82°F) but remain accompanied by high maximums. The summer months, from July to September, maintain warm averages, generally around 27-28°C (81-82°F), while maximums see a slight decrease compared to the preceding months. October to December brings a gradual cooling as the year wraps up, with temperatures returning to more comfortable averages of 24-27°C (75-80°F), inviting a refreshing end to the seasonal cycle. Overall, Toledo's climate reflects a warm tropical pattern, marked by distinct shifts from cooler to hotter periods, promoting rich biodiversity and dynamic weather conditions throughout the year.
In February, San Antonio experiences a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in April, making it one of the warmer months. For a comparative perspective, Punta Gorda sees a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in February, with its peak reaching 36°C (97°F) in May. For more details on the climate, visit monthly temperatures in San Antonio and monthly temperatures in Punta Gorda.
Toledo, Belize, experiences a pronounced wet season, significantly influencing its climate and ecosystems. The year begins with relatively low precipitation, with January receiving 94 mm (3.7 in) and February experiencing a further decrease to 71 mm (2.8 in). March sees a slight uptick to 84 mm (3.3 in), yet by April, rainfall drops to only 61 mm (2.4 in). As the wet season commences in May, a dramatic increase is observed, with precipitation soaring to 132 mm (5.2 in), and by June, rainfall peaks at 247 mm (9.7 in)—the highest monthly total of the year.
This pattern continues through the heart of the wet season from June to October, where Toledo frequently experiences heavy rainfall, averaging approximately 207-268 mm (8.2-10.6 in) during these months. This period is characterized by nearly daily precipitation, with June and July witnessing 27 and 28 rainy days, respectively. Despite a slight reduction in rainfall in November, which totals 182 mm (7.2 in), Toledo remains influenced by its tropical climate, ensuring that the landscape thrives with lush vegetation and vibrant biodiversity throughout both the wet and dry seasons.
Toledo, Belize, showcases a dynamic pattern of sunshine duration throughout the year, reflecting its tropical climate. The year starts with a modest 218 hours of sunshine in January, which gradually increases in February and continues to rise, peaking in May with an impressive 320 hours. This steady ascent highlights the transition from the cooler, drier months into the warmer season when sunlight becomes more abundant, fostering an ideal environment for outdoor activities and vibrant ecosystems. April and May stand out as the months with the highest sunlight, demonstrating how this sunny period aligns with the peak of the dry season.
As the wet season approaches in June, the total hours of sunshine dips slightly to 275 hours, yet remains relatively high compared to other regions. The summer months of July and August witness a resurgence, with 305 and 308 hours respectively, showcasing Toledo's resilience against potential rain. However, as the year progresses into the autumn, sunshine hours begin to gradually decline, culminating in 272 hours in November. Despite this decrease, the overall trends in sunshine duration reveal a vibrant and sun-kissed climate, ideal for cultivating natural beauty and enriching local activities throughout the majority of the year.
Toledo, Belize, is characterized by a high ultraviolet (UV) index throughout most of the year, highlighting the importance of sun safety for both residents and visitors. In January, the UV index starts at 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the UV index escalates to 12, entering the extreme category and requiring even greater caution. The trend of increasing UV levels continues into the peak months from March to May, where the UV index consistently reaches 14, underscoring potential risks of skin damage with an alarming burn time of only 10 minutes during these months.
As summer approaches, the UV index remains consistently high, ranging from 13 to 14 from June through August, reinforcing the urgent need for protective measures during outdoor activities. Even as the year winds down into autumn and winter, Toledo maintains a notable UV index; October still presents an extreme level at 12, which is crucial for sun safety awareness. The final months of the year see a decrease in the UV index, dropping to 10 in November and 9 in December, both retaining the very high category but with slightly extended burn times. Overall, the UV index data for Toledo emphasizes the need for vigilant sun protection year-round, especially during the peak months.
UV Risk Categories
In Toledo, Belize, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, driven by the region's tropical location. The year begins with a stable 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing ample light during the cooler, dry months. As March arrives, daylight increases slightly to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April and May, coinciding with the region's warming temperatures and vibrant ecosystem. This sustained period of longer days fosters an ideal environment for outdoor activities and local agriculture.
The onset of June brings the longest daylight duration at 13 hours, perfectly aligning with the wet season when nature thrives. However, by July, daylight begins a gradual descent back to 12 hours, maintaining stability through August and September. As the year transitions into the last quarter, daylight returns to 11 hours in October, and this duration persists through November and December. This cycle of daylight not only supports the ecological processes of the area but also enhances the cultural and recreational experiences Toledo has to offer, allowing for year-round engagement with its picturesque landscapes.
Punta Gorda, Belize, enjoys a warm tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in May, peaking at 36°C (97°F) during April and May. Rainfall varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being June, July, and August, each receiving over 300 mm (11.8 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to May, with March having the highest sunshine hours at 309. For more detailed information, visit Punta Gorda climate.
San Antonio, Belize experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 39°C (103°F) in April. Rainfall is significant, especially in June and October, with monthly averages reaching 172 mm (6.8 in) and 219 mm (8.6 in) respectively. The region enjoys ample sunshine, with March and April boasting over 300 hours of sun each month. For more details, visit San Antonio climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental characteristics of Toledo, Belize, present a compelling tapestry of tropical elements that shape life in this vibrant region. With its diverse temperature patterns, significant seasonal rainfall, high UV index, and consistent daylight duration, Toledo exemplifies the unique balance of warmth and rainfall that promotes rich biodiversity and lush landscapes. The abundance of sunlight throughout much of the year invites outdoor activities and enhances the local culture, while the pronounced wet season provides essential water resources for the ecosystem. Understanding these climatic traits is vital not only for residents and tourists but also for conservation efforts aimed at preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of Toledo, ensuring that its allure endures for generations to come.