Last updated: January 18, 2025
Maranhão, Brazil, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications Aw (tropical savanna), As (tropical savanna with a dry season), and Am (tropical monsoon). The region experiences a temperature range with minimums dipping to 15°C (59°F) in June, an average temperature of 27°C (82°F) throughout the year, and maximums soaring up to 42°C (108°F) in October. This climatic variability influences local ecosystems, agriculture, and weather patterns, shaping Maranhão into a dynamic environmental landscape.
Maranhão, Brazil, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by consistently warm conditions. January and February typically begin the year with minimum temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and peak at 39°C (102°F) in January. As the months progress towards April and May, a slight cooling occurs, with minimums dropping to 15°C (60°F) in May and daily averages remaining stable around 27°C (81°F). Notably, June to July maintains a steady average, while maximum temperatures intensify, peaking at 38°C (100°F) in July. The region witnesses its highest temperatures in September and October, where recorded maximums soar to 42°C (108°F). By the end of the year, temperatures moderate slightly, yet still remain elevated, with December reflecting minimums around 20°C (68°F) and maximums reaching 40°C (104°F). This overall trend highlights a tropical climate with minimal seasonal variation, yet pronounced warm peaks during the late dry season.
Dom Pedro experiences a temperature variation with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in July and a peak of 39°C (102°F) in October, as detailed here. In contrast, São Luís has a warmer minimum temperature of 23°C (74°F) in February, while its maximum reaches 31°C (89°F) in July, which can be explored further. Meanwhile, Barreirinhas records a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in August, with a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in October, as noted here.
Maranhão, Brazil, experiences significant seasonal variations in precipitation, largely driven by a tropical climate. The wet season typically spans from January to April, with rainfall peaking in March at 344 mm (13.6 in). During this period, the number of rainy days is noticeably high, with March receiving precipitation on 29 days. January and February also contribute substantially, with 193 mm (7.6 in) and 314 mm (12.3 in) of rainfall, respectively, allowing for a lush and vibrant environment. However, as the dry season approaches in the following months, rainfall diminishes significantly.
From May to August, Maranhão experiences the lowest precipitation levels, highlighted by a striking drop to just 13 mm (0.5 in) in August, accompanied by only 2 rainy days. This period of dryness continues into September, where only 11 mm (0.4 in) is recorded. Some relief returns in October and November, with 28 mm (1.1 in) and 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation, respectively, as the region transitions back towards wetter conditions. By December, rainfall slightly increases again to 113 mm (4.5 in), illustrating the cyclical nature of Maranhão’s climate and its alternating wet and dry periods.
Maranhão, Brazil, showcases a remarkable trend in sunshine duration that highlights significant variability throughout the year. The months from January to April see a gradual increase in sunlight, culminating in a noticeable peak during March (259 hours) and April (260 hours). As the region transitions into the middle of the year, it experiences a more pronounced rise in sunshine, with May marking a notable uptick at 311 hours, which signals the approach of the sunnier half of the year. This upward trajectory continues with June (322 hours) and peaks in July (339 hours), creating a sunny landscape that benefits outdoor activities and promotes agricultural growth.
As the dry season takes hold in Maranhão, August emerges as the sunniest month, boasting 345 hours of sunshine. This high level of sunlight remains consistent in September and October, with both months earning the same sunny total of 345 hours. However, as the year progresses towards the end, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with November and December experiencing a decline, recording 313 hours and 304 hours, respectively. Despite this decrease, the overall trend illustrates Maranhão's considerable sunshine potential, particularly during the peak months that span from mid-year to late summer, making it a region rich in light throughout the majority of the year.
In Maranhão, Brazil, the UV Index consistently reflects extreme solar radiation levels throughout the year, underscoring the need for caution among residents and visitors alike. The beginning of the year, particularly January, February, March, and April, showcases the highest values, with the UV Index reaching 16 during these months, indicating critical exposure levels where sunburn can occur in just 10 minutes. This persistent high UV Index throughout the first four months serves as a reminder for protective measures such as sunscreen and protective clothing, particularly in the hot summer months.
As the year progresses, the UV Index does experience a gradual decline, although it remains within the extreme exposure category. May starts this downward trend with a UV Index of 14, followed by June (12) and July (11). However, it rises again in August and September to 13, before climbing back to 15 in October, November, and December. Even in the lower months, the UV levels are still critically high, emphasizing that year-round sun safety practices are essential in Maranhão. Citizens and visitors are advised to remain vigilant, as the threat of UV exposure persists throughout all seasons.
UV Risk Categories
Maranhão, Brazil, experiences a relatively consistent pattern in daylight duration throughout the year, with most months offering around 12 hours of sunlight. From January to March, the region enjoys an ample 12 hours of daylight, providing residents with plenty of time for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits. This consistent daylight helps maintain a steady rhythm of life, promoting both economic and social interactions across the region during these summer months.
However, as the year progresses into the late spring and early summer, daylight duration slightly decreases to 11 hours from April to August. This reduction in daylight is minimal, leading to only a subtle shift in daily routines. Interestingly, September to December sees a return to 12 hours of daylight, reinstating the brightness of the previous months and allowing for continued productivity and enjoyment. This consistent variability in daylight, combined with the region's tropical climate, supports a vibrant ecosystem and an active lifestyle year-round.
Atins, Brazil experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) to 28°C (82°F) with maximums often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. The wettest months are March and April, with precipitation peaking at 425 mm (16.7 in) and 398 mm (15.7 in), respectively. In contrast, the dry season from July to September sees significantly less rainfall, dropping to just 10 mm (0.4 in) in September. With ample sunshine, particularly in the mid-year months, Atins is an inviting destination for those seeking warmth and outdoor activities. For more details, visit Atins climate.
Barreirinhas, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Monthly average temperatures range from 27°C (81°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) during the summer months, with maximums peaking at 35°C (95°F) in August and October. The region sees significant rainfall from January to May, with March being the wettest month at 349 mm (13.7 in), while the dry period from June to September features minimal precipitation. Notably, sunshine is abundant, particularly from June to October, with over 300 hours of sunshine monthly in this period. For more detailed information, visit Barreirinhas climate.
The climate in Dom Pedro, Brazil, features warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 26°C (80°F) in cooler months to 30°C (86°F) in October. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from January to March, with March recording up to 298 mm (11.7 in) of precipitation. Monthly sunshine hours peak in the dry season, with July enjoying around 336 hours of sunshine. From June to August, rainfall drops to its lowest, making it the driest period of the year. For more detailed information, visit Dom Pedro climate.
Sao Jose de Ribamar, Brazil, showcases a tropical climate characterized by consistently warm temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) throughout the year. The months from January to April experience the highest precipitation, peaking at 502 mm (19.8 in) in April, while July and August are notably drier with only about 33 mm (1.3 in) of rainfall. Sunshine hours peak in mid-year, particularly from July to October, providing up to 352 hours of sunlight in October. For more details, visit Sao Jose de Ribamar climate.
Sao Luis, Brazil, experiences a warm tropical climate with minimal temperature variation throughout the year, typically ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 89°F). The wet season peaks from February to April, with March receiving the highest rainfall at 483 mm (19.0 in), while the driest months are July and August, recording just 107 mm (4.2 in) and 37 mm (1.5 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly during the peak dry period, with July and August boasting around 343 to 349 hours of sunshine. Overall, Sao Luis offers a humid yet vibrant climate all year round, ideal for sun-seekers and rain lovers alike. For more detailed information, visit Sao Luis climate.
In conclusion, Maranhão, Brazil, presents a dynamic climate characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, significant seasonal precipitation patterns, abundant sunshine, extreme UV Index levels, and relatively stable daylight duration. The region's tropical savanna climate fosters an environment rich in biodiversity and agricultural potential, highlighted by its distinct wet and dry seasons that impact local ecosystems and human activities. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for residents and stakeholders alike, enabling them to implement effective strategies for agriculture, tourism, and health precautions against UV exposure. This knowledge not only enhances quality of life but also promotes sustainable practices that harmonize development with environmental stewardship in Maranhão.