San Cristóbal Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, experiences a tropical climate characterized by two distinct Köppen-Geiger classifications: Af (tropical rainforest) and Aw (tropical savanna). This vibrant locale showcases a temperature range with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) in the cooler month of January, rising to an average of 25°C (77°F) throughout the year. By September, temperatures peak at 35°C (95°F), reflecting the region's warm and humid conditions. The interplay of climate types contributes to the rich biodiversity and dynamic weather patterns that define San Cristóbal's ecological landscape.

San Cristóbal temperature by month

In San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, temperature patterns exhibit a defined seasonal rhythm, characterized by warm averages throughout the year. January marks the coldest month, with minimum temperatures dipping to 11°C (53°F), while average highs gradually rise from 31°C (88°F) in January to 35°C (95°F) by September. The transition from the cooler months to the warmer summer season is evident as temperatures steadily increase from 24°C (75°F) in March to 26°C (79°F) by June, reaching peak levels in July and August. As the year progresses towards winter, temperatures begin to decline slightly, yet remain consistently mild, with averages around 25°C (77°F) to 24°C (75°F) in the final months of the year. This close-knit pattern of temperature fluctuations illustrates the tropical climate's influence on San Cristóbal, fostering a consistently warm environment.

Monthly Temperatures in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic

The chart illustrates San Cristóbal's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec747474767778797979787675
Data source: San Cristóbal temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Villa Altagracia experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) in January to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in August. In contrast, both Bajos de Haina and San Cristobal have higher minimums of 15°C (60°F) during January, with maximum temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) in September. For more detailed temperature information, you can visit monthly temperatures in Villa Altagracia, monthly temperatures in Bajos de Haina, and monthly temperatures in San Cristobal.

Precipitation Patterns in San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, experiences distinct patterns of precipitation throughout the year, reflective of its tropical climate. The wet season typically begins in May, with rainfall peaking in August at 146 mm (5.7 in), coinciding with an increase in rainy days that can average up to 21 days. April also signals the onset of increased precipitation, with 82 mm (3.2 in), while January remains relatively dry with just 38 mm (1.5 in), setting the stage for the wetter months to come. The transition from the cooler, drier months to the lush, rain-soaked summer is marked by a gradual increase in both the intensity and frequency of rainfall.

As the seasons progress into the fall, San Cristóbal witnesses significant precipitation in September and October, registering 108 mm (4.3 in) and 115 mm (4.5 in) respectively. This period sees a high number of rainy days, with October maintaining a consistent pattern with 21 days of rainfall. While precipitation diminishes in November and December, they remain substantial, contributing 107 mm (4.2 in) and 42 mm (1.7 in) to the yearly totals. Overall, the yearly precipitation pattern highlights a clear distinction between the drier months and the significantly wetter rainy season, fostering the region's rich biodiversity and lush landscapes.

Monthly Average Precipitation in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic

The average monthly precipitation in San Cristóbal, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec38496482107829714610811510742
Data source: San Cristóbal precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, experiences a noteworthy trend in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a gradual increase from the winter months into the summer season. January starts the year with 255 hours of sunshine, but as February progresses, sunshine hours rise significantly to 303 hours. March marks the beginning of a robust sunny period, peaking in July with an impressive 350 hours. This surge in sunlight represents the heart of the dry season, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agriculture, as the region basks in abundant warmth and longer days.

As summer transitions into fall, sunshine hours experience a slight decrease, with September recording 310 hours and continuing to decline through October and November. However, despite the drop, these months still offer a generous amount of sunlight compared to the initial winter periods. Interestingly, December brings a rebound with 315 hours of sunshine, showcasing the region's capacity for bright days even as it approaches the end of the year. Overall, the trend reveals a distinct seasonal pattern where sunshine duration maximizes during the dry months while maintaining a substantial presence even in wetter periods.

Monthly Sunshine in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight San Cristóbal receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec255h303h343h343h345h344h350h339h310h302h283h315h
Data source: San Cristóbal sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

San Cristóbal UV Index Trends

San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, faces significant variations in UV Index levels throughout the year, highlighting the region's intense sun exposure, particularly from February to May. The UV Index peaks at 14 during the height of the dry season in March, April, and May, falling under the "extreme" exposure category and necessitating limited sun exposure with a burn time of just 10 minutes. January starts with a high index of 9, categorized as "very high," yet it is the transition into spring that amplifies the risk, urging residents and visitors alike to adopt protective measures against sunburn.

As summer approaches, the UV Index slightly declines but remains in the "extreme" category, averaging around 13 from June through September, where the burn time remains critical at 10 minutes. By autumn, the UV Index begins to taper off, hitting 12 in October before reducing to 9 in November and 8 in December, suggesting less intense solar radiation during the winter months. Nonetheless, even in December, the exposure levels remain significant, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures year-round in this tropical paradise.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in San Cristóbal. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec911141414131313131298
Data source: San Cristóbal UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in San Cristóbal

In San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting its tropical location. Both January and February experience 11 hours of daylight, offering a stable foundation for daily activities. As spring approaches, daylight hours begin to increase, peaking at 13 hours in June and July, which are traditionally the sunniest months. This increase provides ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits and contributes to the vibrant lifestyle enjoyed by its residents and visitors.

As summer transitions into fall, daylight hours start to decline again, returning to 12 hours in August and September before reverting to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This slight fluctuation between peak daylight and shorter days showcases the region's stable climate patterns, ensuring that although daylight hours vary mildly, they remain sufficient for year-round activities. Overall, the consistent daylight allows for a predictable rhythm of life in San Cristóbal, supporting its lush natural environment and vibrant communities.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic

This chart shows the total daylight hours San Cristóbal receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec668h691h722h753h779h791h784h762h732h701h674h661h
Data source: San Cristóbal daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of San Cristóbal's Popular Destinations

Bajos de Haina, Dominican Republic, features a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from a mild 24°C (75°F) in winter to a peak of 27-28°C (81-82°F) during summer months, with highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in September. The region experiences a significant amount of rainfall, particularly in May and August, with precipitation levels often exceeding 150 mm (5.9 in). Despite the rain, the area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to July, accumulating over 340 hours of sunlight monthly. For more detailed information, visit Bajos de Haina climate.

The climate in Cambita Garabitos, Dominican Republic, is characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average highs range from 22°C (72°F) in January to 32°C (90°F) in July and August, while lows vary from 13°C (55°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) during the summer months. Precipitation peaks in May and August, with averages of 115 mm (4.5 in) and 145 mm (5.7 in), respectively, contributing to a lush environment. Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to May, where monthly hours exceed 340. For more details, visit Cambita Garabitos climate.

El Cacao, Dominican Republic, experiences a moderately warm tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 22°C (71°F) in the cooler months to 25°C (77°F) during the warmer season. The region sees a significant amount of rainfall, peaking at 145 mm (5.7 in) in August, making May through October the wettest months. Sunshine is abundant, with hours peaking at 352 in July. For detailed information, visit El Cacao climate.

El Carril, Dominican Republic, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) during the summer months, with highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in September. Precipitation is more frequent from May to October, peaking in August at 150 mm (5.9 in), while December sees lower rainfall at 45 mm (1.8 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with July offering the highest sunlight at 347 hours. For more details, visit El Carril climate.

Sabana Grande de Palenque, Dominican Republic, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, temperatures fluctuate between 19°C (67°F) and 29°C (85°F), gradually rising to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in July. The wettest months, August and September, receive significant rainfall of 129 mm (5.1 in) and 100 mm (3.9 in), respectively, while sunshine varies from 256 hours in January to a peak of 352 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit Sabana Grande de Palenque climate.

San Cristobal, Dominican Republic, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to around 27°C (81°F) during the summer. Monthly rainfall peaks in August at 150 mm (5.9 in), while January sees the least precipitation at 36 mm (1.4 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, with July boasting the highest hours at 347. For more details, visit San Cristobal climate.

San Gregorio de Nigua, Dominican Republic, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 27°C (81°F), peaking at a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in September. Rainfall is most abundant from May to August, with August seeing the highest precipitation at 150 mm (5.9 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful, particularly from February to July, where residents enjoy up to 347 hours of sun in July. For more detailed information, visit San Gregorio de Nigua climate.

Villa Altagracia, Dominican Republic, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 20°C (69°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in the peak summer months of July and August, with maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F). Rainfall is most common from May to October, with May being the wettest month at 162 mm (6.4 in). The region also benefits from abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 358 hours, making it a bright and vibrant destination. For more details, check the Villa Altagracia climate.

Yaguate, Dominican Republic, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) in January to a peak of 27°C (81°F) during the summer months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F) in July. Rainfall is most significant from May to October, particularly in August with 129 mm (5.1 in). Despite the summer rains, Yaguate enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in April and May, with over 340 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed information, visit Yaguate climate.

Conclusion

In summary, San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, is characterized by its tropical climate, ensuring warm temperatures and significant sunshine throughout the year. The region experiences a distinct seasonal pattern in terms of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, and UV Index, all contributing to its vibrant ecosystem and outdoor lifestyle. With ample daylight hours and high levels of solar radiation, particularly during the dry season, residents and visitors must remain vigilant about sun safety. Ultimately, San Cristóbal's climate dynamics not only enrich its natural beauty but also influence the cultural and agricultural practices integral to life in this thriving Caribbean locale.

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