Last updated: January 18, 2025
Risaralda, Colombia, embodies a tropical rainforest climate as classified by the Köppen-Geiger system (Af). This region experiences a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) during January, reflecting its cooler extremes, while the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 20°C (68°F). The peak temperatures can reach a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in January, illustrating the warm, humid conditions characteristic of this vibrant Colombian landscape. These climatic features support a rich biodiversity and underscore the significance of understanding the region's unique weather patterns for environmental conservation and local agriculture.
In Risaralda, Colombia, temperature patterns exhibit subtle seasonal variations throughout the year, with a propensity for mild conditions. The region experiences its coolest months in January and February, where minimum temperatures dip to 7-9°C (45-48°F), while maximums reach 28-29°C (82-84°F). From March to June, temperatures remain relatively stable, maintaining an average of 20°C (68°F) and maximums hovering around 28°C (83°F), accompanied by consistently mild minimums. A slight cooling trend emerges in July, with temperatures dropping slightly to 27°C (81°F) at maximum, before gradually rebounding in August. As the year progresses towards the end, September and October see fluctuating minimums and maximums that align closely with earlier trends, ultimately stabilizing through December. This consistency in temperature highlights Risaralda's tropical rainforest climate, where warm, humid conditions prevail year-round, punctuated by minor shifts that lend subtlety to the seasonal experience.
La Merced experiences a January temperature range of 13°C (56°F) to 28°C (83°F) monthly temperatures in La Merced, while in Santa Rosa de Cabal, January temperatures drop to a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and peak at 22°C (73°F) in October monthly temperatures in Santa Rosa de Cabal. Pereira has a minimum of 12°C (54°F) in March, with a high of 29°C (84°F) in January monthly temperatures in Pereira.
Risaralda, Colombia, experiences a pronounced pattern of precipitation throughout the year, characterized by high rainfall totals and frequent rainy days. January begins the year with significant rainfall, accumulating 398 mm (15.7 in) over 23 days. As the seasons transition into the wetter months, February sees an increase to 418 mm (16.4 in), followed by March, which marks the onset of the heaviest rains with 612 mm (24.1 in). The peak precipitation occurs in May, where rainfall reaches an impressive 939 mm (37.0 in) across 30 days, highlighting the region's distinct wet season.
The rainfall continues to be substantial through the subsequent months of June and July, with totals of 869 mm (34.2 in) and 901 mm (35.5 in) respectively. As August approaches, precipitation decreases slightly to 779 mm (30.7 in), but high moisture persists through September and October, recording 675 mm (26.6 in) and 683 mm (26.9 in). By the end of the year, November and December bring rainfall totals of 565 mm (22.3 in) and 543 mm (21.4 in), respectively, maintaining the trend of ample precipitation and ensuring that Risaralda's lush landscape thrives all year round.
In Risaralda, Colombia, sunshine duration showcases distinct seasonal trends, illuminating the region's varied climate throughout the year. The year begins with 240 hours of sunlight in January, gradually increasing to 263 hours in February before peaking in March with 267 hours. Following this brief period of increase, April experiences a decline to 235 hours, illustrating a transitional phase leading into the wetter months. As May arrives, sunshine hours dip slightly to 213 hours, marking the arrival of the rainy season when cloud cover becomes more prevalent.
However, a notable resurgence in sunlight occurs during the latter half of the year, with an impressive rise in July reaching 270 hours, and August following closely with 279 hours, making them the sunniest months. This period not only indicates a shift towards clearer skies but also emphasizes Risaralda’s ability to balance its copious precipitation with ample sunshine. As the year progresses into the fall months, September maintains a robust 262 hours, while sunshine hours gradually decrease through October and November to 224 hours and 221 hours, respectively. By December, sunlight rebounds once more to 256 hours, closing the year on a bright note, underscoring the dynamic interplay between rainfall and solar exposure in this vibrant region.
In Risaralda, Colombia, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. Starting at 14 in January, the UV Index escalates to 16 in February, peaking at 17 during March and April, which classifies these months under the "extreme" exposure category. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, the risk of skin damage is significant, urging individuals to take immediate precautions against sun exposure during these peak periods.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains high, only slightly declining to 16 in May and returning to 14 in June and September-October. During the latter months of the year, it adjusts downward, dropping to 13 in November and 12 in December, but still falls within the "extreme" category. This persistent intensity highlights the necessity for ongoing vigilance against UV radiation, as even brief exposure can lead to skin damage. Therefore, appropriate sun safety measures, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen, are essential throughout the year in Risaralda.
UV Risk Categories
In Risaralda, Colombia, daylight duration exhibits a pattern that reflects the region's proximity to the equator, resulting in relatively consistent hours of sunlight year-round. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, creating a steady foundation for the seasonal cycle. As the transition into the spring months occurs, daylight stretches to 12 hours in March, and this duration is maintained through April, May, June, July, August, and September. This consistency encourages vibrant ecosystems and supports agricultural practices, benefiting from ample sunlight during the lengthened days.
As autumn approaches, daylight hours gradually decrease once again, dipping back to 11 hours in October and remaining consistent through November and December. This return to shorter daylight durations reaffirms the cyclical nature of Risaralda's climate, allowing for distinct seasonal changes without dramatic fluctuations in daylight. Overall, the region's reliable daylight duration not only shapes its unique weather patterns but also fosters a stable environment for both human activity and natural biodiversity.
La Merced, Colombia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by moderate temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 19°C (67°F) to 20°C (68°F) and maximums typically between 26°C (79°F) and 28°C (83°F). High precipitation levels are observed, especially from April to July, with May being the wettest month at 650 mm (25.6 in). Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant, with July and August boasting the most hours at 273. For more details on the climate, visit La Merced climate.
Pereira, Colombia experiences a tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year, with averages around 20°C (68°F). Daily highs typically range from 27°C (81°F) to 29°C (84°F) while lows remain between 12°C (54°F) and 15°C (59°F). The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly from April to July, with precipitation peaking at 1,775 mm (69.9 in) in July. On average, sunshine hours vary between 240 to 306 hours monthly, with the driest and sunniest months observed in February and August. For more details, visit Pereira climate.
Santa Rosa de Cabal, Colombia, experiences a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 14°C (58°F) to 15°C (59°F) throughout the year. The region sees considerable rainfall, particularly during April to July, where monthly precipitation can exceed 1,500 mm (59 in), making this the wettest period. Sunshine is abundant, especially in July and August, boasting over 300 hours of sunlight each month. Despite the heavy rainfall, temperatures remain mild, with minimal fluctuations between seasons. For more detailed information, visit Santa Rosa de Cabal climate.
In conclusion, Risaralda, Colombia, presents a captivating interplay of climate characteristics that underscore its tropical rainforest environment. With consistent temperatures, high precipitation levels, and intense UV Index readings, the region emphasizes the need for attention to sun safety and proper moisture management in agricultural practices. Moreover, the relatively stable daylight duration throughout the year enhances ecological vitality and cultivates a conducive environment for various plant and animal species. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for sustainable development, effective resource management, and preserving the rich biodiversity that defines Risaralda's unique landscape.