Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Huila, Colombia, is characterized by a diverse range of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Af (tropical rainforest), Am (monsoon), As (tropical savanna), and Cfb (temperate oceanic). This region experiences a minimum temperature of 7°C (44°F) in August, illustrating the cooler extremes of its climate. On average, temperatures hover around 20°C (69°F), while peaks can reach an impressive 39°C (102°F) in February. Such variability not only reflects the region's climatic complexity but also contributes to its rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
In Huila, Colombia, temperature patterns exhibit a distinctive seasonal variation throughout the year. The region experiences relatively consistent average temperatures that hover around 20°C (68°F to 71°F) for most months, creating a mild climate overall. Notably, January and February showcase the highest maximum temperatures, peaking at 39°C (102°F), while August and July trend slightly cooler, with averages dipping to 19°C (67°F). Minimum temperatures remain stable, ranging from 7°C (44°F) to 9°C (49°F), indicating a cooler phase during the dry months. This data reflects Huila's characteristic mildness, punctuated by warmer periods primarily at the onset of the year, creating a distinctive climate that favors agricultural diversity and ecological richness.
Pitalito experiences a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) in August and a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in February, while San Agustin records slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) in August and a maximum of 25°C (77°F) in January. For more details on their respective climates, see monthly temperatures in Pitalito and monthly temperatures in San Agustin.
Huila, Colombia, exhibits a pronounced wet season characterized by substantial rainfall, particularly from March to June. In March, precipitation peaks at 262 mm (10.3 in), followed closely by April and May with 258 mm (10.2 in) and 247 mm (9.7 in), respectively. The frequency of rainy days corresponds with this trend, as March experiences about 25 days of rainfall, making it one of the wettest months. These months collectively contribute to the lush, verdant landscapes that are emblematic of the region's tropical climate.
As the dry season approaches, rainfall begins to taper off, with August and September recording the lowest totals at 113 mm (4.4 in) and 103 mm (4.0 in), respectively. The reduced precipitation is reflected in the fewer rainy days, averaging around 15 to 16 days during these months. Despite this dip, Huila's climate remains relatively humid year-round, supporting a diverse ecosystem and providing vital resources for local agriculture.
Huila, Colombia, showcases a dynamic pattern of sunshine duration throughout the year, with notable peaks in the mid-year months. The sunshine hours start off relatively strong in January with 260 hours, but they steadily increase, reaching a maximum of 333 hours in August. This summer peak highlights a period of abundant sunshine, where clear skies often foster ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agriculture. The months of July through September maintain a robust average of over 300 hours of sunshine each, emphasizing the region's transition into a drier climate as it moves away from the wet season.
As the year progresses into the latter months, sunshine hours experience a gradual decline. Notably, November records a decrease to 280 hours, marking the onset of the region's less sunny period. Despite this drop, December sees a slight rebound with 324 hours of sunshine. Overall, the annual pattern reveals a vibrant climatic rhythm in Huila, with a clear emphasis on longer, sunnier periods from mid-year to late summer, providing a striking contrast to the more subdued sunlight of late fall.
Huila, Colombia, presents consistently high UV Index values throughout the year, characterizing its intense solar exposure. From January to April, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 18, indicating that unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. This period emphasizes the necessity for adequate sun protection, as even brief exposure can pose serious risks. The trend remains concerning with values only slightly decreasing in the following months; however, even in June to July, the UV Index hovers around 14 to 15, maintaining an extreme exposure category.
As the year progresses into the latter months, slight fluctuations are observed, yet the UV Index remains notably high. October and November see a resurgence to 16 and 15, respectively, while December experiences the lowest value at 13. Despite this marginal decrease, the exposure category remains extreme, reinforcing the importance of sun safety practices year-round. Residents and visitors to Huila should remain vigilant, as the persistent high UV Index necessitates precautions against sunburn and long-term skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Huila, Colombia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with most months experiencing around 12 hours of sunlight. This consistency reflects the region's equatorial position, where day length remains fairly uniform regardless of the season. January starts the year with 11 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 12 hours by February and maintaining this level from March through October. This predictability in daylight duration supports various agricultural practices and outdoor activities, making the region a favorable environment for growth and development.
As the calendar year progresses towards the end, daylight begins to taper off again, with November and December both returning to 11 hours. This decrease signals a gentle transition into shorter days during the latter part of the year, yet the impact is minimal compared to regions farther from the equator. Overall, Huila’s consistent daylight hours contribute to a vibrant climate and ecosystem, allowing its diverse flora and fauna to thrive under ample sunlight throughout much of the year.
Pitalito, Colombia experiences a mild and rainy climate, characterized by average temperatures ranging from 17°C (64°F) in July to 19°C (66°F) throughout the rest of the year. Precipitation is significant, peaking at 412 mm (16.2 in) in June, with a total annual rainfall contributing to lush landscapes. Sunshine hours vary slightly, with August and September receiving the most sunlight at 325 hours each. The combination of consistent temperatures and abundant rainfall makes Pitalito an ideal location for agriculture and biodiversity. For more details, visit Pitalito climate.
San Agustin, Colombia, experiences a mild climate characterized by year-round temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) to 25°C (77°F). The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from March to June, with monthly averages exceeding 200 mm during this period. Sunshine is abundant, especially in August, when it boasts up to 325 hours of sunlight. This unique combination of mild temperatures and varied precipitation contributes to a lush landscape, making it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts. For more detailed climate information, visit San Agustin climate.
In conclusion, Huila, Colombia, showcases a unique climatic tapestry characterized by consistent temperature patterns, substantial precipitation, abundant sunshine, extreme UV Index levels, and stable daylight duration. The region's diverse weather conditions contribute to its rich biodiversity and agricultural potential, while the high UV Index emphasizes the need for sun protection year-round. With daylight duration remaining stable around 12 hours for most of the year, Huila supports a vibrant ecosystem that thrives under its equatorial sun. Understanding these climatic traits is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by Huila's dynamic environment.