Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Valle del Cauca, Colombia, is characterized by a diverse array of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Af (tropical rainforest), Cfb (oceanic), and Am (monsoon). This region experiences a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) in January, with an average temperature of 21°C (69°F) year-round. The warmest month, February, sees maximum temperatures soaring to 34°C (94°F), highlighting the region's significant thermal variability. Such climatic conditions contribute to the area's rich biodiversity and influence local agricultural practices, making Valle del Cauca a unique environment within Colombia.
Temperature patterns in Valle del Cauca, Colombia, reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by mild minimums and warmer maximums throughout the year. The coldest month is January, with minimums dropping to 7°C (45°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F). As February arrives, temperatures gradually increase, peaking at 34°C (94°F). From March to May, the climate remains warm and consistent, exhibiting an average temperature of 21°C (69°F) with maximums often hitting the low to mid-34°C range. Mid-year months like June through August see steadier temperatures, with minimums stabilized around 10°C (50°F) and maximums generally hovering between 32°C (89°F) and 33°C (91°F). Autumn transitions in September to December maintain similar averages, with slightly cooler minimums but consistent maximums, underscoring the overall warm and temperate climate that defines this region.
In La Union, temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in March to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in September, making it a region with significant seasonal variation monthly temperatures in La Union. Cali experiences its coldest minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January, while the warmest maximum is around 30°C (87°F) in August monthly temperatures in Cali. Meanwhile, Buenaventura presents a different climate with minimum temperatures of 20°C (69°F) in August and peak highs of 34°C (94°F) in February monthly temperatures in Buenaventura.
Valle del Cauca, Colombia, experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with a distinct wet season that peaks between March and May. January starts the year with 349 mm (13.7 in) of precipitation over 23 days, gradually increasing into February with 424 mm (16.7 in) over 25 days. The month of March marks a notable rise in rainfall, delivering 498 mm (19.6 in) across 29 days, while April sees an even more substantial increase to 625 mm (24.6 in), highlighting the onset of the region's rainy spell. May continues this trend with a pronounced maximum of 750 mm (29.5 in), solidifying its position as the wettest month.
Following this peak, precipitation begins a gradual decline but remains relatively high into the latter half of the year. June registers 662 mm (26.1 in) over 28 days, followed closely by July with 680 mm (26.8 in). The wetness maintains its presence through August and September, with rainfall recording 592 mm (23.3 in) and 541 mm (21.3 in), respectively. The months of October, November, and December see variations, with precipitation levels ranging from 517 mm (20.4 in) to 573 mm (22.6 in), ensuring a continuous pattern of moisture that significantly influences the region's hydrology and ecosystems.
In Valle del Cauca, Colombia, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, marked by a gradual increase in hours from the beginning of the year until late summer. January kicks off with 214 hours of sun, followed by a steady rise through February and March, reaching 232 hours and 243 hours, respectively. However, this trend takes a brief dip in April, where the number of sunshine hours falls to 209 hours. May sees the lowest level of sunlight for the first half of the year at 195 hours, suggesting a transition into the rainy season that influences the region's weather patterns.
The sunshine returns robustly in the subsequent months, with July and August emerging as the champions of luminosity, basking under 238 hours and 252 hours of sunshine, respectively. A slight decrease occurs in September, with 235 hours, but it remains significantly bright compared to earlier months. The year then closes with diminishing light, particularly in October with only 193 hours, and November dropping further to 181 hours—the year's nadir. December rebounds slightly to 220 hours, but the contrast between the sun-soaked summer months and the less radiant late-year period underscores the region's dynamic climatic conditions and their influence on outdoor activities and local lifestyles.
The UV Index in Valle del Cauca, Colombia, consistently reflects the region's tropical climate, showcasing extreme solar exposure throughout much of the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers at 15, maintaining a high level of intensity that persists for several months. February and March see an increase to 16 and 17, respectively, indicating optimal conditions for sun exposure and also a need for caution, as the recommended burn time remains a mere 10 minutes. April sustains this elevated level, with the UV Index steady at 17, ultimately highlighting the necessity for protective measures against harmful UV radiation.
As the year progresses from May through August, the UV Index slightly decreases, remaining at 16 or reducing to 15, yet still falls within the "extreme" exposure category. The decline continues into the latter months, with November yielding a UV Index of 14 and December tapering down to 12—the lowest for the year but still within a hazardous range. This consistent pattern underscores the importance of sun safety practices year-round in Valle del Cauca, as residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant against the risks posed by high ultraviolet radiation, especially during peak sunlight hours.
UV Risk Categories
In Valle del Cauca, Colombia, daylight duration exhibits a consistent yearly pattern reflective of its equatorial positioning. January and February receive approximately 11 hours of daylight, after which the region transitions into longer days as March ushers in 12 hours. This increase in daylight is maintained through the subsequent months of April to October, contributing to a stable photoperiod that supports both ecological processes and human activities. The nearly constant 12-hour day length during this period allows for a balanced distribution of light, fostering vibrant agriculture and a rich biodiversity.
As the year approaches its end, daylight hours begin to taper off once again, with both November and December returning to 11 hours. This slight reduction towards the year's conclusion signifies a subtle shift in seasonal rhythms, though the overall variation remains minimal throughout the year. Such consistency in daylight duration not only highlights Valle del Cauca's unique climatic advantages but also influences the lifestyle patterns of its inhabitants, who benefit from an extended period of natural light for various daily activities and agricultural practices.
Bolivar, Colombia experiences a tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures remain consistent, ranging from a minimum of 13°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in February. The region sees the highest precipitation in April, with 417 mm (16.4 in), while the driest months tend to be January and August. Sunshine hours fluctuate, peaking in March with 220 hours, but dip significantly in the wet season, particularly in November. For more detailed information, visit Bolivar climate.
Buenaventura, Colombia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, with averages around 26°C (79°F) and maximums reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in some months. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from April to September, peaking in May with about 994 mm (39.1 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours vary, with the most sun in March (256 hours) and the least in June (142 hours). The combination of high humidity and substantial rainfall contributes to a lush environment, making Buenaventura a vibrant location. For more details, visit Buenaventura climate.
Cali, Colombia enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs around 30°C (86°F) and lows ranging from 14°C (58°F) in January to 17°C (63°F) in November. The city experiences significant rainfall, particularly in February and November, with yearly precipitation peaking at 398 mm (15.7 in) during the latter month. Sunshine varies from a low of 180 hours in November to a high of 263 hours in August. For more information, visit Cali climate.
Cartago, Colombia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Throughout the year, average temperatures hover around 22°C (72°F), with maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F) in the warmer months. Precipitation is notably high from March to May, peaking at 480 mm (18.9 in) in May, while the city enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in February and March with over 250 hours of sun. Visitors can expect a lush environment due to the abundant rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Cartago climate.
Guadalajara de Buga, Colombia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from April to June. Average temperatures range from a low of 12°C (54°F) in January to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) in August, with consistent averages around 20°C (68°F). Precipitation peaks in May, reaching 1254 mm (49.4 in), contributing to a lush environment. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with August receiving the most at 222 hours. For more details, visit Guadalajara de Buga climate.
La Union, Colombia experiences a warm climate characterized by relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, with average values around 22°C (72°F). The region has a significant amount of rainfall, peaking in May at 687 mm (27.1 in) and tapering off towards the end of the year. Dry periods are less pronounced, with consistent rainfall in most months, particularly from March to May. Sunshine is abundant, especially in July and August, which feature the highest hours of sunlight. For more details, visit La Union climate.
Roldanillo, Colombia, experiences a tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round, averaging around 21°C (70°F). Daily minimums range from 14°C (58°F) in January to 16°C (61°F) in the warmer months, while maximum temperatures peak at approximately 29°C (84°F) in February. The area receives considerable rainfall, with May being the wettest month at 411 mm (16.2 in), while sunshine hours vary, reaching a maximum of 220 hours in March. For more detailed information, visit Roldanillo climate.
In conclusion, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its diverse temperature patterns, abundant precipitation, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The region's tropical environment results in high UV index levels and extended periods of sunshine, particularly during the summer months, which play a significant role in influencing local ecosystems and agriculture. Despite minor fluctuations in daylight and rain, these climatic features collectively enhance the region's biodiversity and agricultural productivity while posing challenges that necessitate effective sun safety measures for both residents and visitors. Understanding these climatic dynamics is vital for sustainable development and resource management in Valle del Cauca, ensuring that its natural wealth continues to benefit future generations.