Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Meta, Colombia, is characterized by a diverse range of conditions as classified by the Köppen-Geiger system, which includes tropical rainforest (Af), monsoon (Am), and temperate oceanic (Cfb) climates. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F) in February, while average annual temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F). Remarkably, temperatures can peak at 38°C (101°F) during the same month, highlighting the significant thermal variation within this unique Colombian landscape. Such climatic diversity not only shapes Meta's rich biodiversity but also influences local agricultural practices and water resource management.
Meta, Colombia, exhibits pronounced seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year. The coldest months, January and February, feature minimum temperatures dipping as low as 5°C (42°F), while daytime highs can reach an impressive 38°C (101°F). As the year progresses into March and April, temperatures begin to stabilize, with averages around 25°C (77°F) and a slight drop in maximum temperatures. The warmer months from May to August see a gradual increase in both minimum and maximum temperatures, though averages remain relatively consistent at 23°C (74°F). By September through December, temperatures remain steady, with minimums settling between 7°C (45°F) to 8°C (47°F) and consistent daytime highs around 35°C (95°F). This temperate climate shapes the region's unique ecosystems and agricultural cycles, reflecting the nuanced interplay of seasonal shifts.
Puerto Lopez experiences a warm climate with a minimum temperature of 20°C (67°F) in December and a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in February, making it one of the hotter months. In contrast, Villavicencio has a broader temperature range, with February dipping to a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and rising to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) in October. Meanwhile, Granada sees its temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in August to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in February. For more detailed temperature insights, visit the respective links: monthly temperatures in Puerto Lopez, monthly temperatures in Villavicencio, and monthly temperatures in Granada.
Precipitation patterns in Meta, Colombia, reveal a distinct wet season that spans from March to June, characterized by significant rainfall and frequent rainy days. January and February mark the onset of this pattern, with precipitation recorded at 73 mm (2.9 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in), respectively, and rainfall lasting 9 days per month. However, as March arrives, the region experiences a dramatic increase in rainfall, peaking at 191 mm (7.5 in) over 18 days, which culminates in the month's transition into April, where rain intensifies to reach 270 mm (10.6 in) with 22 rainy days.
The precipitation continues to escalate in May, peaking at 331 mm (13.0 in), followed closely by 256 mm (10.1 in) in June, maintaining the trend of roughly 25 rainy days for both months. The wet conditions gradually taper off by July and August, where rainfall decreases to 236 mm (9.3 in) and 116 mm (4.6 in), respectively, each with 23 and 16 rainy days. The latter part of the year witnesses a return to increased rainfall in October and November, with 209 mm (8.2 in) and 234 mm (9.2 in), though the number of rainy days remains moderate. Overall, the climate of Meta exemplifies a tropical pattern of pronounced wet and dry seasons, critical for sustaining its diverse ecosystems.
In Meta, Colombia, the annual sunshine duration presents a dynamic seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's tropical climate. The year begins with a solid 266 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing to 291 hours in February and peaking at 295 hours in March. This early surge in sunlight sets the stage for the dry season, where April experiences a slight decrease back to 266 hours, followed by a modest decline in May with 257 hours. However, as the region transitions into the mid-year months, sunshine hours stabilize, with June returning to 265 hours.
Notably, the latter half of the year showcases significant increases in solar exposure, particularly in the heart of the dry season. July shines brightly with 295 hours, while the peak month of **August boasts an impressive 323 hours of sunshine—the highest in the year. September and October continue this trend, with 318 hours and 305 hours, respectively, before November sees a minor dip to 287 hours. December closes the year on a high note, registering 333 hours, indicating a return to sunny conditions. This consistent rise and fall in sunshine is crucial for agriculture and ecological balance, further aiding the region’s diverse ecosystems adapted to both wet and dry periods.
In Meta, Colombia, the UV Index consistently reflects high levels of solar radiation throughout the year, highlighting the region's extreme exposure to ultraviolet light. Starting the year with a UV Index of 14 in January, this intensity increases to a peak of 17 during March and April, designating an "extreme" exposure category. Such elevated UV levels require minimal sun exposure—approximately just 10 minutes—to cause skin damage, emphasizing the necessity for sun protection measures during these months.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains notably high, fluctuating between 14 to 17 until a slight decline in December, where it registers at 13. Months like May, July, and August maintain a UV Index around 15, indicating continued danger from sun exposure. Each month presents an extreme exposure category, underscoring the importance for residents and visitors to stay vigilant about sun safety year-round. The persistent intensity of the UV Index in Meta serves as an essential reminder of the need for protective strategies against solar radiation, filtering how individuals plan their outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
In Meta, Colombia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, closely aligned with the equatorial sun's consistent arc. The months of January and February see about 11 hours of daylight each, providing a balanced yet slightly shorter light period at the year’s start. As the equinox nears in March, the length of daylight increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the subsequent months of April, May, and June. This consistent increase captures the essence of the region's tropical climate, allowing for extended periods of natural light.
From June to October, daylight duration remains steady at 12 hours, offering ample time for outdoor activities and influencing local lifestyles and agricultural practices. However, as November approaches, daylight begins to shorten again to 11 hours, a rhythm that reaffirms the cyclical nature of sunlight in the region. By December, the daylight duration returns to 11 hours, mirroring the start of the year. This consistency in daylight duration plays a crucial role in supporting Meta’s diverse ecosystems, fostering both plant and animal life throughout the seasons.
El Dorado, Colombia, experiences a warm tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 78°F) throughout the year. January and February are generally drier, while May marks the onset of the wettest months, with precipitation peaking at 383 mm (15.1 in) in May. The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in August with 325 hours, making it a vibrant destination. Overall, visitors can expect a mix of warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. For more details, visit El Dorado climate.
Granada, Colombia, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) to 27°C (81°F), with highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in February. The wettest months are April and May, receiving approximately 223 mm (8.8 in) and 328 mm (12.9 in) of rain, respectively. Despite the rain, Granada benefits from ample sunshine, especially in August, which sees around 325 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Granada climate.
The climate in Puerto Lopez, Colombia, is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (85°F). January and December see high maximums of 37°C (98°F) and 35°C (96°F), while the cooler months of April and May experience significant rainfall, with precipitation peaking in May at 380 mm (15.0 in). Sunshine hours typically exceed 250 per month, with August and September offering the highest at around 320 hours. This tropical climate makes Puerto Lopez a vibrant destination year-round for visitors. For more detailed information, visit Puerto Lopez climate.
Villavicencio, Colombia, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 18°C (65°F) to 19°C (66°F). The wettest months are March and November, receiving over 300 mm of precipitation, while the driest month is August with only 71 mm. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in July and August, with approximately 310 to 329 hours of sunlight, making it a relatively bright time of year. For more details on the climate of Villavicencio, visit the Villavicencio climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Meta, Colombia, characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, significant precipitation, high UV exposure, and stable daylight duration, presents a unique and complex environment. The region's warm temperatures, combined with pronounced wet and dry seasons, significantly influence local agriculture and ecosystems. Furthermore, the extreme UV Index throughout the year highlights the necessity for sun safety, while the consistent daylight hours promote biodiversity and enhance everyday life. Understanding these climatic factors is crucial for effective resource management and conservation efforts in Meta, ensuring the sustainability of its rich natural heritage for future generations.