Last updated: January 18, 2025
Loja, Ecuador, presents a diverse climatic profile characterized by a mix of Köppen-Geiger climate classes: Aw (Tropical savanna), Cwb (Temperate highland), and Cfb (Oceanic). This unique combination results in a distinct temperature range, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) during the cooler month of August, an average temperature of 19°C (67°F) throughout the year, and a maximum of 32°C (90°F) also observed in August. Such variability not only shapes the region's ecological landscape but also influences the local lifestyle and agricultural practices, making Loja a fascinating case of climatic interplay.
The temperature patterns in Loja, Ecuador, reveal a mild and consistent climate throughout the year, characterized by subtle seasonal variations. From January through April, Loja enjoys relatively warm conditions, with minimum temperatures hovering around 11°C (52°F) and average highs near 31°C (88°F). A slight cooling trend emerges in June and July, where the minimums drop to 9°C (49°F) and 9°C (48°F), while average temperatures remain stable at 19°C (66°F). August marks the coolest point of the year with a minimum of 7°C (46°F), yet it coincides with some of the highest maximums, reaching 32°C (90°F). By September, temperatures rebound to a comfortable 10°C (50°F) minimum, leading into the year's end, where average temperatures stabilize around 20°C (68°F), reinforcing Loja’s reputation for a temperate climate that supports a diverse ecosystem.
Celica experiences mild temperatures with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in July and a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in November, making it noticeably warmer towards the end of the year (monthly temperatures in Celica). In contrast, Loja has cooler weather, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in August and a maximum of 27°C (81°F) in November (monthly temperatures in Loja). Cariamanga's climate is somewhat in between, recording a minimum of 10°C (49°F) in August and peaking at 29°C (84°F) in September (monthly temperatures in Cariamanga).
Loja, Ecuador, experiences a pronounced rainy season that predominantly stretches from January to April, during which precipitation levels peak significantly. The months of March and February record the highest amounts, with 375 mm (14.8 in) and 298 mm (11.7 in), respectively. These months also show a greater frequency of rainy days, with March experiencing 29 days of rainfall. The transition from the wet months to the moderately dry period occurs in May, where precipitation sharply declines to 141 mm (5.5 in), and the number of rainy days decreases notably to 24.
Following the peak rains, Loja enters a much drier season from June to August, where the monthly precipitation can drop to as low as 24 mm (0.9 in) in August, accompanied by only 5 rainy days. The trend slightly shifts in late September and October, with precipitation rising to 34 mm (1.3 in) and 93 mm (3.7 in), respectively, influenced by the onset of the second rainfall phase. Overall, the climate in Loja reflects a distinct wet season that shapes its lush landscapes, characterized by high rainfall and increasing humidity during the peak months.
Loja, Ecuador, showcases a distinct trend in sunshine duration that peaks during the winter months and gradually rises as the year progresses. Starting in January with 231 hours, there is a steady increase in sunlight, culminating in 299 hours in May. This upward trajectory reflects a gradual transition towards the drier season, with April serving as a turning point as sunshine hours reach 268 hours. The trend continues into June and July, where Loja basks in an impressive 303 hours and 327 hours of sunshine, respectively, making these months among the sunniest of the year.
As the year approaches its end, sunshine duration begins to taper off, though the month of August still boasts a substantial 330 hours of sunlight. This slight downturn marks a return to the transitional period, leading into the wetter months of October and November where sunshine hours drop to 304 hours and 282 hours. Despite this decline, the sunlight during these months remains ample compared to the beginning of the year. Overall, Loja's climate highlights a compelling pattern where sunshine duration not only enhances the region's ecology but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents, particularly during the vibrant summer months.
The UV Index in Loja, Ecuador, presents a strikingly high risk of solar exposure, particularly from January to May, where it consistently reaches extreme levels. With values peaking at 18 in both March and April, this period indicates a critical need for sun protection, as the recommended burn time is merely 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Even during January and February, the UV Index remains alarmingly high at 16 and 17, respectively, emphasizing the necessity for residents and visitors to adopt safety measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
As the year progresses into the cooler months, the UV Index remains notably elevated, although it shows a slight decrease. June and July maintain an extreme category at 13, continuing to warrant caution. August experiences a minor uptick to 14, followed by a return to 17 in September and October. Despite these fluctuations, November and December report UV Index values of 15, still representing a significant risk. Throughout the year, consistent vigilance is essential due to the persistent intensity of sunlight in Loja, which underlines the importance of sun protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In Loja, Ecuador, daylight duration exhibits a remarkable stability throughout the year, with the average daily daylight hovering around 12 hours from January to March. This consistent exposure to sunlight contributes to a balanced and moderate climate, allowing for ample opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits. As the year progresses into April, the daylight hours decrease slightly to 11 hours, a trend that continues through the mid-year months of May to August, reflecting a subtle seasonal rhythm.
However, the duration of daylight begins to rebound in September, where it again reaches 12 hours. This pattern is retained through the final months of the year, providing a steady length of daylight in October, November, and December. Overall, Loja's daylight duration creates a predictably pleasant environment, aiding in the cultivation of diverse flora and sustaining the local lifestyle amid its temperate climate.
Cariamanga, Ecuador, features a mild climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year. Average daily temperatures hover around 19°C (66°F), with maxima reaching up to 29°C (84°F) in August and September. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from March to April, with March receiving the highest precipitation at 412 mm (16.2 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in mid-year, with June and July boasting around 330 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Cariamanga climate.
Catacocha, Ecuador experiences a mild climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, with average daily highs around 21°C (70°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (87°F) in October. The area receives significant rainfall, particularly from February to March, with March witnessing the highest precipitation of 457 mm (18.0 in). The dry months, such as July and August, see drastically lower rainfall, contributing to a more temperate environment. Abundant sunshine is a hallmark of Catacocha, especially from June to August, when days can exceed 320 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Catacocha climate.
Catamayo, Ecuador, enjoys a temperate climate characterized by mild temperatures year-round, with averages around 17°C (63°F). The warmest month is November, with maximum temperatures reaching 27°C (81°F), while the coolest month is August, where temperatures can drop to 7°C (46°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in March at 270 mm (10.6 in) and decreasing significantly during the drier months of July and August. Sunshine is abundant, with July and August boasting around 321 and 329 hours, respectively. For more detailed information, visit Catamayo climate.
The climate in Celica, Ecuador, is characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 28°C (83°F) to 31°C (88°F) and lows between 13°C (56°F) and 16°C (61°F). Rainfall varies significantly, with the wettest months being February and March, receiving 374 mm and 458 mm, respectively, while July and August see very minimal precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from June to August, delivering over 300 hours of sunshine each month. Overall, Celica enjoys a subtropical highland climate, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For more details, visit Celica climate.
Loja, Ecuador, experiences a mild climate with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in July to 18°C (64°F) in September. Precipitation is highest from March to May, with March receiving up to 270 mm (10.6 in), while the driest months are July and August, with only 66 mm (2.6 in) and 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, respectively. Sunshine hours peak in August with 329 hours, contributing to pleasant weather. For more detailed information about the weather patterns, visit Loja climate.
The climate in Macara, Ecuador, is characterized by a warm temperature range, with averages fluctuating between 21°C (70°F) and 23°C (73°F) throughout the year. The warmest months are generally from June to August, while the cooler months are from June to September, with temperatures occasionally dropping to 13°C (56°F). Macara experiences significant rainfall, particularly from February to March, accumulating 339 mm (13.3 in) and 383 mm (15.1 in) respectively. In contrast, the dry season spans from June to August, with minimal precipitation recorded. For more details, visit Macara climate.
In conclusion, Loja, Ecuador, presents a compelling climate characterized by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region's mild temperatures and notable precipitation patterns support a diverse ecosystem, while the prolonged periods of sunshine underline the importance of sun protection due to the consistently high UV Index. Furthermore, the stability in daylight duration across the year facilitates both agricultural productivity and recreational opportunities. Together, these climatic features not only shape the environmental landscape but also significantly influence the lifestyle and practices of the local population, making Loja a unique and vibrant region within Ecuador.