Last updated: January 18, 2025
Minas Gerais, Brazil, showcases a diverse range of climates as classified by the Köppen-Geiger system, including Cfa, Cfb, Cwa, Aw, Cwb, and Am. This region experiences substantial temperature variability, with minimum temperatures dropping to a chilling -2°C (29°F) during the coldest month of July, and soaring to a sweltering 42°C (108°F) in October. The average temperature hovers around a mild 22°C (72°F), highlighting the dynamic weather patterns that characterize this captivating Brazilian state. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for appreciating the region's ecological diversity and agricultural potential.
The temperature patterns in Minas Gerais, Brazil, exhibit distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The region experiences warm summers from January to March, with minimum temperatures ranging from 10°C to 13°C (51°F to 55°F) and maximum highs peaking at 41°C (106°F). As autumn approaches in April, temperatures begin to cool, with averages decreasing to around 22°C (72°F) and minimums dipping to 7°C (45°F). In the winter months of May to July, the temperatures drop significantly, presenting the coldest figures, including a minimum of -2°C (29°F) in July, while average temperatures hover around 18°C to 20°C (65°F to 68°F). The transition to spring in August marks a gradual increase in warmth, culminating in October when maximum temperatures can reach an intense 42°C (108°F), with the year closing out in December with comfortable averages of 23°C (74°F). This intricate interplay of temperature highlights the dynamic climate of Minas Gerais and its seasonal transitions.
In the region, Belo Horizonte experiences a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) in May, peaking at 36°C (97°F) in October, while Ouro Preto sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in May and a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in October. Tiradentes has a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) in July and also reaches up to 34°C (94°F) in October. For a detailed look at the temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Belo Horizonte, monthly temperatures in Ouro Preto, and monthly temperatures in Tiradentes.
In Minas Gerais, Brazil, precipitation is highly seasonal, with significant rainfall primarily concentrated in the warmer months. January and February are particularly wet, receiving 129 mm (5.1 in) and 193 mm (7.6 in) respectively, with rainfall occurring on approximately 12 to 17 days during these months. This trend continues into March, where precipitation remains steady at 129 mm (5.1 in), followed by a noticeable decline in April to 55 mm (2.1 in), as the region transitions into drier conditions. The month of May brings even less rain, totaling just 34 mm (1.3 in), marking the beginning of a dry spell that peaks in June and July, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) and 6 mm (0.2 in) recorded.
As the year progresses, a moderate increase in rainfall occurs once again in August and September, though totals remain low at 18 mm (0.7 in) and 27 mm (1.0 in), respectively. October sees a resurgence of precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in), as the region re-enters the rainy season. The peak rainfall months are witnessed in November and December, with 182 mm (7.2 in) and 214 mm (8.4 in) respectively, often coinciding with frequent rainy days—17 in November and 19 in December. The precipitation pattern, characterized by a clear wet and dry cycle, plays a crucial role in determining the agricultural landscape and water availability in Minas Gerais.
In Minas Gerais, Brazil, sunshine duration reveals a captivating seasonal pattern, reflecting the transition from cooler winter months to the sunnier summer. The year kicks off with January and February enjoying ample sunlight, recording 266 and 268 hours respectively. As the seasons progress into the fall, March emerges as a standout month with an impressive 311 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual peak as the region heads into spring. April and May maintain a robust showing with 296 and 293 hours, illustrating the consistent warmth leading up to winter.
As the year progresses, the trend of increased sunlight continues into the height of spring. The months of July and September shine brightly, both clocking at around 308 and 313 hours of sunshine, making them some of the sunniest periods of the year. Interestingly, June, while still receiving 290 hours of sunshine, marks the transition into winter when days are steadily shortening. As we near the end of the calendar year, sunshine hours begin to wane slightly, with November and December seeing 270 and 293 hours, respectively. This seasonal ebb and flow of sunlight is crucial for agriculture and the overall climate character of Minas Gerais, emphasizing the region's ability to harness solar energy effectively throughout the year.
The UV Index in Minas Gerais, Brazil, presents a striking spectrum of intensity throughout the year, primarily classified as extreme from January to May. January kicks off with an alarming UV Index of 17 and continues to exhibit similar levels in February and March at 16 and 15, respectively. During these months, the recommendations for sun protection are crucial due to very short burn times of just 10 minutes, signifying an urgent need for caution when participating in outdoor activities. April and May maintain this trend, with UV values steady at 13 and 11, further underscoring the risk of overexposure during the early months of the year.
As Minas Gerais transitions into the winter months, the UV Index demonstrates a slight decrease but remains significant. June and July experience a dip, registering 9 and 10, categorized as very high, with burn times extending to 15 minutes. However, as August rolls in, the index rises back to 12 before returning to the extreme category in September and October. Giving way to November and December, the UV Index peaks again at 16 and 17, ensuring that year-end festivities are accompanied by increased UV exposure. This fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety measures across all seasons, especially during peak UV periods where even brief sun exposure can result in severe skin damage.
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In Minas Gerais, Brazil, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, characterized by longer days in the summer months and shorter days during winter. January stands out with approximately 13 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural practices. This lengthy daylight period persists into November and December, promoting lively holiday celebrations under the warm sun. February and March experience slightly shorter days at 12 hours, yet retain a sense of vibrancy as the transition from summer to autumn continues.
As the year progresses, daylight gradually diminishes, reaching its lowest point in June with only 10 hours. This shift heralds the winter season, during which daylight remains fairly consistent at around 10 to 11 hours from June through September. However, the return to longer days becomes evident in October, with a resurgence to 12 hours, and the cycle continues as daylight lengths increase once more into the summer months. This seasonal variability in daylight duration not only affects daily life in Minas Gerais but also plays a significant role in the region's climate and agricultural cycles.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil, features a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a mild 5°C (41°F) in May to a warm 36°C (97°F) in October, with summer months (December to February) experiencing the highest rainfall, particularly in February (196 mm). The city enjoys plentiful sunshine, averaging over 300 hours in many months, peaking at 318 hours in September. While the dry season from June to August sees minimal precipitation, overall, the climate remains conducive to an active outdoor lifestyle throughout the year. For more information, visit Belo Horizonte climate.
Camanducaia, Brazil, experiences a diverse climate characterized by moderate temperatures and significant rainfall. Summer months (December to February) see averages around 21°C (70°F) with high precipitation, peaking in January at 245 mm (9.6 in). In contrast, winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures, averaging 14°C (58°F) in July and minimal rainfall, dropping to just 16 mm (0.6 in) in July. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, exceeding 300 hours in March and July. For more details, visit Camanducaia climate.
The climate in Campos Gerais, Brazil, is characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February experience the highest temperatures, with averages around 24°C (75°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F), coinciding with significant rainfall, especially in February with 202 mm (8.0 in). In contrast, July sees the lowest temperatures, averaging 17°C (63°F) and minimal precipitation at just 7 mm (0.3 in). The region enjoys a good amount of sunshine year-round, peaking in September with 317 hours. For more detailed information, visit Campos Gerais climate.
Capitolio, Brazil experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct rainy and dry seasons. The hottest months are December through February, with average highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F) and significant rainfall, particularly in February with 220 mm (8.6 in). In contrast, the cooler months from May to August see average lows around 5°C (40°F), accompanied by minimal precipitation. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July and September with approximately 318 hours. For more details, visit Capitolio climate.
Caxambu, Brazil, features a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. January typically sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), while July is the coldest month with temperatures dropping to 2°C (36°F) at night. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being December and February, receiving up to 167 mm (6.6 in) and 133 mm (5.2 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in the winter months, with July boasting around 312 hours. For more detailed information, visit Caxambu climate.
Congonhas, Brazil experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The warmest months are January and February, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (89°F) and significant rainfall, especially in February with 244 mm (9.6 in). The cooler months of May to July see minimum temperatures drop to around 4°C (39°F) and much lower precipitation, peaking in June with only 13 mm (0.5 in). Despite the fluctuations in rainfall, sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with March having the highest sunshine hours at 313. For more detailed information, visit Congonhas climate.
Diamantina, Brazil, experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) in May to a maximum of 35°C (94°F) in October. The city receives significant rainfall, particularly in February (224 mm or 8.8 in) and December (234 mm or 9.2 in), while June and July are notably dry with only 9 mm (0.4 in) and 6 mm (0.2 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to September, with September receiving the most hours at 323. Overall, the climate is characterized by warm summers, mild winters, and a notable wet season. For more detailed insights, visit Diamantina climate.
Itajubá, Brazil experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with January and December being the wettest months, receiving approximately 256 mm and 269 mm of precipitation, respectively. Temperatures range from a cool minimum of 0°C (33°F) in July to a warm maximum of 32°C (90°F) in October, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). The city enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking at 309 hours in July. Despite its rainy season, Itajubá also sees varied precipitation levels, with notably dry months like June and July. For detailed climate statistics, visit Itajuba climate.
Juiz de Fora, Brazil, experiences a tropical highland climate with warm temperatures year-round. January and February are the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F) and high precipitation levels, particularly in February at 326 mm (12.8 in). The cooler months from June to August see temperatures drop to a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and significantly less rainfall, with July recording only 14 mm (0.5 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in March, which has the most sunshine hours at 309. For more detailed information, visit Juiz de Fora climate.
Nova Lima, Brazil, experiences a tropical highland climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Throughout the year, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) in May to a maximum of 35°C (94°F) in October. The wettest months are generally February and December, receiving 197 mm (7.7 in) and 206 mm (8.1 in) of precipitation, respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and September, with over 316 hours of sun during these months. For more detailed information, visit Nova Lima climate.
Ouro Preto, Brazil, experiences a diverse climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in May to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in October, while the average remains moderate around 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). Rainfall peaks in February with 281 mm (11.1 in) and drops significantly from June to July, making it the driest period. Sunshine hours vary, reaching up to 313 hours in March, providing ample light despite the rain. For more detailed information, visit Ouro Preto climate.
Passa Quatro, Brazil, experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February are the warmest months, with average temperatures around 22-23°C (72-73°F) and significant rainfall, reaching up to 187 mm (7.4 in). The driest months are June and July, where temperatures average 16-17°C (61-63°F) and precipitation drops to about 18 mm (0.7 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to September, with July enjoying the most hours at approximately 307. For more details, visit the Passa Quatro climate.
Pedra Azul, Brazil experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet seasons. January to March sees higher temperatures, peaking at 36°C (98°F) in March, with considerable rainfall, especially in February (100 mm). The dry season from May to August features cooler temperatures, averaging around 20°C (68°F), and lower precipitation. Notably, November and December witness increased rainfall, reaching up to 198 mm (7.8 in). For more detailed information, visit Pedra Azul climate.
Pocos de Caldas, Brazil experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. January and February are the warmest months, featuring average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and significant rainfall, peaking at 252 mm (9.9 in) in January. The cooler months from May to July see decreased temperatures, dropping to a minimum of -1°C (31°F) in July, along with reduced precipitation. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with July offering the highest sunshine hours at 316. For more information, visit Pocos de Caldas climate.
The climate in Santos Dumont, Brazil, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with January and February being the hottest months, experiencing maximums around 34°C (93°F). Rainfall is abundant, particularly from February to December, with the wettest month being December at 303 mm (11.9 in). Sunshine hours vary, peaking in March with 304 hours, and the dry months of June and July see significantly less precipitation. Overall, the weather allows for a mix of warm days and frequent rainfall, making it a unique climate. For more details, visit Santos Dumont climate.
Sao Francisco, Brazil experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. January and February are the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 38-41°C (100-105°F) and significant rainfall, particularly in February with 183 mm (7.2 in). The dry months from June to August see minimal precipitation, averaging only 1-3 mm, while October and November witness increased rainfall leading into the wet season. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in September with 336 hours, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Sao Francisco climate.
Sao Joao del Rei, Brazil, has a tropical highland climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) in July to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in October, with summer months (December to February) experiencing the highest rainfall, peaking at 211 mm (8.3 in) in December. Generally, the area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in March and September, averaging over 300 hours per month. The combination of warm temperatures, significant precipitation, and ample sunlight contributes to the region's lush landscapes. For more details, visit Sao Joao del Rei climate.
Sao Lourenco, Brazil, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January is the warmest month, with temperatures reaching up to 31°C (89°F) and significant rainfall of 114 mm (4.5 in). The driest months are June and July, featuring minimal precipitation of 12 mm (0.5 in) and 9 mm (0.4 in), respectively, while temperatures can drop to around 2°C (36°F). The region enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts an impressive 312 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sao Lourenco climate.
Tiradentes, Brazil, experiences a varied climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. January and February are the warmest months with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F) and heavy rainfall peaking in February at 194 mm (7.6 in). Cooler months, from May to July, see minimum temperatures drop to around 5°C (41°F) and little rainfall, with July experiencing only 4 mm (0.2 in). Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant, especially from March to September, with over 300 hours of sunshine per month during these months. For more detailed information, visit Tiradentes climate.
Uberaba, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) in July to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in October, with January and February being the hottest months. Precipitation is highest in January (204 mm) and February (244 mm), while the dry months are June and July, each receiving only about 3 mm of rain. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in March and July, with over 300 hours of sunlight typically recorded each month. For more information, visit Uberaba climate.
Varginha, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) in July to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in October, with January and February being the hottest months. Rainfall is highest in January (144 mm) and November (173 mm), while June and July are the driest months with only 11 mm and 7 mm, respectively. The region enjoys generous sunshine, especially in July and September, which each see around 315 hours of sun. For more details, visit Varginha climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is marked by notable variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight duration throughout the year. The region experiences a dynamic interplay between warm summers with extreme UV exposure and ample sunshine, and cooler winters characterized by shorter days and reduced rainfall. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for both residents and tourists, as they influence daily activities, agricultural practices, and health precautions, particularly concerning sun safety. As Minas Gerais continues to showcase its rich ecological diversity and agricultural potential, awareness of these seasonal trends remains essential for maximizing enjoyment and minimizing risks associated with its vibrant climate.