Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Chocó, Colombia, is characterized by a diverse array of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Af (tropical rainforest), Am (monsoon), Cfb (oceanic), and Aw (tropical savanna). This region experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in January to a peak of 38°C (101°F) in March, with an average temperature hovering around 26°C (79°F). Such climatic conditions foster a unique ecosystem, rich in biodiversity and heavily influenced by both the monsoonal rains and the oceanic winds that traverse this vibrant landscape.
Chocó, Colombia, exhibits a relatively stable temperature pattern throughout the year, marked by minimal fluctuations in average temperatures, which consistently hover around 26°C (79°F). The region experiences its coolest temperatures in January, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), gradually warming to the warmest months of February and March, where maximums peak at 38°C (100°F) and 38°C (101°F), respectively. From April to June, temperatures remain high, with daily maximums ranging between 35°C (95°F) and 37°C (98°F), while nighttime lows do not drop significantly, generally staying above 12°C (54°F). This pattern of stability continues through the latter half of the year, where temperatures slightly decline, particularly in October and November, bringing cooler minimums of 11°C (53°F) to 13°C (56°F), yet the averages remain comparable to earlier months, reinforcing a consistent tropical climate that characterizes this lush region.
Nuquí experiences a warm tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (73°F) in October to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in February. This consistent warmth makes Nuquí an appealing destination for visitors looking to enjoy its natural beauty year-round. For more detailed information, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Nuqui.
Chocó, Colombia, is renowned for its high levels of precipitation, recording some of the highest rainfall totals in the world. The wet season peaks from April through August, where monthly averages exceed 450 mm (17.7 in), with May reaching a staggering 660 mm (26.0 in) and July recording 731 mm (28.8 in). During these months, rain falls on nearly every day, with 29 days of rainfall in May and 28 days in both July and August, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem that thrives in the tropics.
As the year progresses, a gradual decline in precipitation is observed, particularly from September onwards. While these months still experience substantial rainfall, averaging 600 mm (23.6 in) or more, the intensity lessens compared to the mid-year peaks. December wraps up the year with 464 mm (18.3 in), while the dry season sees significantly lower totals in January and February, although rain remains frequent. This seasonal rhythm of heavy rainfall, interspersed with lighter periods, not only shapes the climate but also underpins the rich biodiversity for which Chocó is famous.
Chocó, Colombia, experiences distinct seasonal variations in sunshine duration, with notable peaks in the first quarter of the year. January starts the year with 225 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 270 hours in March, marking the sunniest month. This upward trend is a precursor to a transition into the rainy season, where sunshine hours begin to dwindle. April sees a drop back to 225 hours, indicating the onset of increased cloud cover and precipitation typical of the region's climate, as the lush ecosystem begins to come alive with rain.
As the rainy season consolidates its presence, sunshine hours reach their annual low during the late spring and early summer months. May and June provide only 188 hours and 182 hours of sunshine, respectively, as the region experiences its heaviest rainfall. While July and August witness a slight rebound in sunshine, peaking again at 208 hours, the overall trend remains characterized by a strong relationship between precipitation and sunlight. By September through November, sunshine remains relatively stable but limited, averaging around 185 hours, before climbing back to 217 hours in December. This cyclical pattern underscores Chocó's tropical climate, where vibrant ecosystems thrive amidst fluctuating sun and rain.
Chocó, Colombia, experiences a consistently high UV Index throughout the year, reflecting its proximity to the equator and intense sunlight. The UV Index ranges from 12 to 17, with peak levels occurring from January to April, where values climb steadily from 14 in January to an extreme 17 in April. This corresponds to an exposure category classified as "extreme," indicating that unprotected skin can burn within just 10 minutes. Such high UV levels necessitate caution for outdoor activity, especially during these earlier months, where sun protection measures are crucial to prevent skin damage.
Following the peak in April, the UV Index shows a slight decline in the subsequent months, with averages around 14 to 15 from May to August. Although the index remains categorized as "extreme," this decrease illustrates the subtle shift in seasonal conditions. The latter months of the year, from September to December, see a gradual reduction in the UV Index, tapering down to 12 in December. Despite this decline, the UV levels remain significantly high, emphasizing the need for continued sun safety practices. In summary, Chocó's UV Index underscores the importance of protection against solar radiation year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Chocó, Colombia, showcases minimal variation in daylight duration throughout the year, primarily due to its equatorial location. The region enjoys approximately 11 hours of daylight in January and February, offering a consistent rhythm to daily life. As the year progresses into March, daylight extends to 12 hours, maintaining this duration from March through September. This somewhat stable daylight period allows for ample opportunities for outdoor activities, fostering an environment where the vibrant natural ecosystem can thrive.
As the seasons transition into October and beyond, daylight duration reverts to 11 hours, mirroring the pattern observed at the beginning of the year. The shifts in daylight hours reflect only slight fluctuations, unlike the broader seasonal changes in temperature and precipitation. Consequently, while sunlight hours are relatively consistent, the experience of daylight in Chocó remains influenced by the region’s significant precipitation and lush vegetation. This unique balance of daylight duration, coupled with high rainfall, creates the optimal conditions for the rich biodiversity that defines Chocó.
Nuquí, Colombia, experiences a tropical rainforest climate characterized by consistently warm temperatures ranging from a minimum of 22°C (73°F) in October to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in February. The area receives significant rainfall throughout the year, peaking in October and November with over 700 mm (27.7 in) of precipitation monthly. Sunshine hours vary, with the sunniest months being February and March, enjoying up to 287 hours. This unique blend of warmth and rain supports lush biodiversity typical of tropical regions. For more detailed information, visit Nuqui climate.
In conclusion, Chocó, Colombia, is characterized by its unique climatic conditions that include high levels of precipitation, consistent sunlight, and extreme UV Index ratings throughout the year. With an average temperature of approximately **26°C** and an annual rhythm of daylight duration that offers around **11 to 12 hours**, the region supports a flourishing ecosystem rich in biodiversity. The heavy rainfall, particularly from April to August, underscores the tropical rainforest climate that nurtures the area’s lush landscapes. As residents and visitors navigate these intense climatic conditions, appropriate measures for sun protection and adaptive strategies for outdoor activities remain essential to fully appreciate the vibrant beauty of this extraordinary region.