Last updated: January 18, 2025
Antofagasta, Chile, exhibits a unique climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification of BWk (arid) and ET (tundra). The region experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with minimums reaching -21°C (-5°F) in June, showcasing occasional cold spells. Conversely, average temperatures hover around 15°C (60°F), while peak summer months can see the mercury soar to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in December. This climatic diversity influences both local habitats and human activities in this coastal city, making it a focal point for climate study in the region.
Temperature patterns in Antofagasta, Chile, demonstrate notable seasonal variations, with significant fluctuations occurring throughout the year. January and February witness the warmest conditions, featuring average temperatures around 18°C (65°F) and maximums peaking at 32°C (89°F) and 31°C (88°F), respectively. As autumn approaches in March and April, temperatures begin to dip, with average values dropping to 17°C (63°F) and 16°C (61°F), though maximums remain relatively high. The coldest month is June, where minimum temperatures plummet to -21°C (-5°F) and average temperatures decrease to 12°C (55°F). However, as winter transitions to spring, temperatures gradually recover, with averages rising back to around 17°C (63°F) by December, while maximums climb back to 32°C (90°F). This progression reflects a distinctive climatic rhythm influenced by the region's geographical and atmospheric conditions.
Antofagasta experiences mild temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) in July and a maximum of 23°C (74°F) in January, as detailed in monthly temperatures in Antofagasta. In contrast, San Pedro de Atacama has a more extreme climate, ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) in July to a warm 32°C (90°F) in December, according to monthly temperatures in San Pedro de Atacama.
Antofagasta, Chile, presents a strikingly arid climate, with precipitation levels remaining low throughout the year. The months of January and February see the highest rainfall, with 18 mm (0.7 in) and 22 mm (0.9 in) respectively, coming primarily from sporadic showers. As the year progresses into the late summer and autumn months, rainfall significantly declines, with March and April recording just 9 mm (0.4 in) and 6 mm (0.2 in), highlighting a pronounced dry spell. Notably, during the winter months, precipitation tends to be minimal, hovering between 6 mm (0.2 in) and 8 mm (0.3 in), contributing to the region's desert-like conditions.
In terms of rainy days, January and February are the most active, with 2 and 3 rainy days, respectively, while March to May experiences only 1 rainy day each. During the winter months, rain is scarce, often recorded on just 1 day in June and July, while August through October typically sees no measurable precipitation. November and December bring slight increases in rainfall with 4 mm (0.2 in) and 12 mm (0.5 in), respectively, but still maintain the dry character of the region overall. This precipitation pattern reinforces Antofagasta's classification as a hyper-arid environment, with minimal contributing factors to its overall water supply.
Antofagasta, Chile, experiences a remarkable increase in sunshine duration as the year progresses from winter to summer, showcasing the region's consistent exposure to sunlight. The sunniest months are found in late spring and early summer, with December leading the way at 389 hours of sunshine, closely followed by November with 379 hours. This upward trend in daylight hours begins in September, where 345 hours are recorded, demonstrating a clear shift away from the shorter winter days in June, which see only 301 hours. The gradual enhancement of sunlight throughout the year significantly influences both the local climate and the lifestyle of residents, fostering outdoor activities and agricultural possibilities.
Contrasting seasonal patterns reveal that while winter months (June and July) experience fewer sunshine hours, averaging around 301 to 318 hours, spring months maintain robust sunshine durations, with March boasting 359 hours. The high point of sunshine duration arrives in October, showcasing 375 hours, before peaking in December. Even during late autumn with 332 hours in April and 322 hours in May, the consistent presence of sunlight remains a defining feature of Antofagasta's climate. Ultimately, this pattern not only emphasizes the region's arid conditions but also highlights its potential as a solar energy hub, making it an attractive location for various outdoor activities year-round.
Antofagasta, Chile, faces a notably high UV Index throughout the year, emphasizing the region's intense solar exposure. The summer months, particularly January and February, showcase an extreme UV Index of 19, indicating a very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues into March, where the index peaks at 21, the highest value recorded, further stressing the need for sun protection during outdoor activities. As we transition into autumn, the UV Index remains elevated, with April and May registering values between 11 and 15, maintaining the extreme category, though consistently signaling potential risks associated with sun exposure.
During the winter months, UV levels begin to drop slightly, recorded at 10 in both June and July, classified as very high, this decrease comes with an increased recommended burn time of 15 minutes. However, as spring arrives, UV levels begin to rise again, reaching 12 in August and climbing back to 18 in October, before tapering off to 19 in November and 20 in December. This cyclical pattern of high UV exposure throughout the year necessitates careful attention to sun safety, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts who frequent Antofagasta's sunny landscape. The combination of extreme UV indices and short burn times underscores the importance of protective measures against harmful solar radiation in the region.
UV Risk Categories
Antofagasta, Chile, enjoys a relatively consistent pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, closely aligned with the region's latitude. The longest days are observed in January and December, where residents can bask in 13 hours of daylight. This abundance of sunlight during the peak summer months fosters vibrant outdoor activities and enhances the local atmosphere. February and November maintain similar conditions with 12 to 13 hours of daylight, ensuring that summer's warmth continues into early spring and late autumn.
As the year transitions from summer to winter, daylight gradually decreases, reaching its shortest duration of 10 hours in May, June, and July. Despite this reduction, daylight duration begins to see a gradual recovery in August, climbing back to 11 hours and stabilizing before returning to 12 hours in October. Such seasonal fluctuations in daylight not only impact daily life and activities in Antofagasta but also contribute to the unique climatic characteristics of this coastal desert region, highlighting its reliable and consistent sunlight throughout much of the year.
Antofagasta, Chile, experiences a mild desert climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round and limited rainfall. Summer months from January to March see average temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and low precipitation, while winter months from June to August have cooler averages around 14°C (57°F) and slightly higher rainfall, peaking at 19 mm (0.8 in) in July. The region enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, with December boasting the highest sunshine hours at 391. This unique climate contributes to Antofagasta's distinctive desert landscape and ecosystem. For more details, visit Antofagasta climate.
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, experiences a desert climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summer months (December to February) feature warm days with maximum temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F) and occasional rainfall, peaking in February with 54 mm. In contrast, winter months (June to August) are much cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) and minimal precipitation. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in October to December, with over 378 hours of sun per month. For more detailed information, visit San Pedro de Atacama climate.
In conclusion, Antofagasta, Chile, exemplifies a unique climate characterized by high temperatures, minimal precipitation, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. The region experiences significant variations in temperature and daylight duration, transitioning from the scorching summer months with extreme UV exposure to the cooler and drier winter season. The consistent presence of sunlight highlights the city's appeal for outdoor activities and its potential for solar energy utilization. Awareness of the climate and environmental conditions is essential for residents and visitors alike, ensuring safety and enjoyment while exploring the diverse landscapes and experiences Antofagasta has to offer.