Last updated: April 17, 2025
Oruro, Bolivia, is characterized by a semi-arid climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BWk (desert) and BSk (steppe). This elevated city experiences significant temperature variations, with a minimum low of -12°C (11°F) in August, reflecting its cool winter season. In contrast, the average annual temperature hovers around 9°C (49°F), while the warmest month, December, can reach a maximum of 26°C (79°F). This temperature profile underscores Oruro's unique climatic conditions, influenced by its high altitude and geographic location.
Oruro, Bolivia, exhibits a distinct seasonal temperature pattern characterized by cold winters and mild summers. From June to August, the city experiences its coldest conditions, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -12°C (11°F) in August, while average temperatures hover around 6-7°C (43-45°F). As the seasons change into spring and early summer, temperatures gradually rise, reaching average monthly highs of 26°C (78°F) and lows around -1°C (30°F) in the warmer months of December and October. Throughout the year, average temperatures remain relatively stable at 9-12°C (49-54°F), reflecting Oruro's semi-arid climate. This temperature variability not only defines the city's weather but also shapes its rich cultural practices and agricultural patterns.
Oruro experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) in August and a maximum of 26°C (79°F) in December. This fluctuation highlights the region's seasonal variability and makes it important for visitors to prepare accordingly. For more detailed insights on the monthly temperatures in Oruro, you can refer to monthly temperatures in Oruro.
Oruro, Bolivia, experiences a pronounced seasonal distribution of precipitation, peaking during the summer months of January through March. January and February herald the wettest conditions, with rainfall measuring 144 mm (5.7 in) and 164 mm (6.4 in), respectively, accompanied by numerous rainy days, averaging 19 to 21 days. This high precipitation frequency supports the region's agricultural practices but also poses challenges with potential flooding during these wetter months. As summer transitions into autumn, a marked decrease in rainfall occurs, culminating in April's minimal 33 mm (1.3 in).
Following the wet season, Oruro undergoes a significant dry spell between May and August, where precipitation drops dramatically, with June recording only 5 mm (0.2 in). This period is characterized by just about one to two rainy days each month, highlighting the arid conditions of winter. As spring emerges in September, precipitation begins to rise again, albeit at modest levels, reaching 27 mm (1.0 in), before peaking again in November and December. Overall, Oruro's precipitation patterns reflect a typical semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, crucial for understanding its environmental dynamics and impacts on local livelihoods.
In Oruro, Bolivia, humidity displays a distinct seasonal pattern throughout the year, beginning with persistently high levels of around 90% during the first few months. As summer transitions into fall, humidity sees a slight dip, dropping to 83% in May before continuing its descent towards 57% in July. This mid-year low marks the driest period, with August enjoying the least humidity at just 52%. However, as the year progresses, humidity gradually builds back up, climbing to 81% in December, signaling the onset of the wet season. Overall, Oruro experiences a humid climate, particularly in the first half of the year and during late fall, creating a unique atmospheric rhythm that defines the region.
Oruro, Bolivia, experiences a notable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a clear trend of increasing sunlight from winter into summer. The year kicks off with January providing approximately 286 hours of sunshine, which gradually climbs to reach its peak in October, where the city basks in 358 hours. This upward trend continues, with particularly high sunshine hours in November (359 hours), highlighting the region's transition into the warmer months. The consistent increase in sunlight not only enhances the region's warm climate but also plays a crucial role in supporting local agriculture during the growing season.
As Oruro moves into the latter half of the year, sunshine hours remain robust but start to taper slightly in December to 347 hours. Conversely, the winter months, notably in June, show a dip in sunlight with 314 hours. However, even during these cooler months, Oruro still enjoys a relatively high number of sunny hours compared to many other regions around the world. Overall, the steady rise in sunshine duration from the onset of winter to the height of summer illustrates Oruro's favorable climatic conditions, making it an attractive location for sun-seekers and contributing positively to the local ecosystem.
Oruro, Bolivia, is characterized by a consistently high UV Index, particularly during the summer months, where values reach an extreme level. In January and February, the UV Index peeks at 19—indicative of extreme sun exposure—resulting in a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into March and April, the UV Index remains elevated at 17 and 16, respectively, with burn times still firmly positioned at 10 minutes. Even as winter approaches, the UV Index remains notable, with May registering at 13, emphasizing the need for protective measures against harmful UV radiation year-round.
Throughout the winter months, UV Index values hover around 10 to 11, categorized as very high to extreme exposure. This period includes June, which sees a UV Index of 10, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. However, as late winter gives way to summer in August and September, the values surge again, with UV Index reaching 14 and 16. The end of the year mirrors earlier months, as December also showcases a UV Index of 19. Given these extreme levels, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant, employing sun protection strategies to mitigate risks associated with prolonged UV exposure in Oruro's high-altitude environment.
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Oruro, Bolivia, experiences a fairly consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, reflecting its high-altitude location near the equator. The year begins in January with approximately 13 hours of daylight, gradually decreasing to 11 hours as spring approaches, seen in April and continuing through the winter months of May, June, July, and August. This steady decline reveals the gradual shift towards the southern hemisphere's winter solstice, exhibiting minimal variability in daylight length as days remain relatively stable.
As the seasons transition toward late spring and early summer, daylight duration begins to extend once more. In October and November, daylight increases back to 12 hours, offering a balanced day-night cycle for local activities. By December, daylight returns to 13 hours, echoing the lengths observed at the start of the year. This consistent variation in daylight duration not only influences the daily lives and routines of Oruro's residents but also plays a pivotal role in agricultural practices and ecological systems within this region.
Oruro, Bolivia, experiences a temperate climate characterized by cooler temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January and February are the wettest months, with precipitation peaking at 119 mm (4.7 in) and temperatures ranging from 3°C (39°F) to 23°C (74°F). During the dry season from May to August, temperatures drop, reaching minimal averages of -6°C (22°F) in June and July, while precipitation significantly decreases to as low as 5 mm (0.2 in). Sunshine is abundant year-round, particularly in October, boasting 353 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Oruro climate.
In conclusion, Oruro, Bolivia, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its distinct temperature patterns, noteworthy precipitation variability, high UV Index levels, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The city's semi-arid climate, with pronounced wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacts local agriculture and lifestyle. Additionally, the intense UV radiation requires vigilance and protective measures among residents and visitors alike. Oruro's ample sunshine hours, particularly during the summer months, further contribute to its vibrant environment, making understanding these climatic intricacies essential for sustainable development and effective resource management in the region.