Last updated: January 18, 2025
Escuintla, Guatemala, is characterized by a unique climate that falls within the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cwb and Aw. This region experiences a diverse range of temperatures, with minimums dipping to 10°C (50°F) in December, an average hovering around 25°C (77°F), and maximums soaring to 39°C (102°F) during the peak of April. The climatic variations, influenced by its geographical features, contribute to a vibrant ecosystem and distinct seasonal patterns that define life in Escuintla.
In Escuintla, Guatemala, temperature patterns exhibit a pronounced seasonal variation throughout the year. The winter months of January and December feature cooler minimums at 10°C (50°F), with daytime averages around 24°C (76°F) to 25°C (77°F), and highs peaking at 36°C (97°F). As the dry season progresses into February and March, temperatures gradually rise, culminating in the hottest month, April, where maximums reach 39°C (102°F) and lows increase to 12°C (54°F). Following this peak, May marks a slight moderation in temperature, maintaining averages while experiencing high values above 38°C (101°F). The onset of the rainy season from June to September brings a lowering of maximum temperatures to the mid-30s°C, while minimums slightly increase. October and November witness a gentle decline in temperatures as the region transitions back toward a cooler dry season, reaffirming the distinct seasonal rhythms that characterize Escuintla’s climate.
San Vicente Pacaya experiences a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) in December, rising to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in March, showcasing a warm climate with considerable variation. In comparison, Escuintla has slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January and a peak of 35°C (95°F) in April, indicating a hotter environment during this period. For more details on the temperature trends, you can explore monthly temperatures in San Vicente Pacaya and monthly temperatures in Escuintla.
Precipitation in Escuintla, Guatemala, follows a pronounced pattern, illustrating the region's tropical climate and marked wet and dry seasons. The year begins with relatively low rainfall in January and February, accumulating only 11 mm (0.4 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in) respectively, while the number of rainy days remains minimal at 2 and 3. As the dry season transitions into the wet season, precipitation begins to swell in March with 21 mm (0.8 in), and a more significant spike occurs in April as rainfall surges to 69 mm (2.7 in).
The onset of the rainy season in May transforms the landscape, with precipitation peaking at an impressive 283 mm (11.2 in) and continuing through the summer months, reaching a maximum of 373 mm (14.7 in) in June. July, August, and September maintain high levels of rainfall, with amounts of 188 mm (7.4 in), 257 mm (10.1 in), and 323 mm (12.7 in) respectively, often resulting in nearly 27 rainy days each month. The rains then start to taper off in October and November, but remain substantial with 338 mm (13.3 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in), marking the end of the wet season while returning to a drier climate in December with just 14 mm (0.6 in) and 3 rainy days.
In Escuintla, Guatemala, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, showcasing an increase in sunlight hours as the year progresses from winter to summer. The year starts with 257 hours of sunshine in January, gradually rising to 287 hours in February. March marks a significant jump to 323 hours, establishing it as the sunniest month of the year. This period of maximum sunshine translates into long, bright days, which persist through April with 314 hours and May, maintaining a robust 305 hours as the rainy season approaches.
As the rainy months arrive, sunshine duration begins to taper off, with June experiencing a decline to 276 hours, signaling the impact of increased cloud cover and precipitation. However, the sunshine remains considerable throughout the summer, as July and August see 312 hours and 302 hours respectively. The sun continues to shine for 283 hours in September before diminishing slightly into the fall at 275 hours in October. Yet, in November, there is a resurgence to 301 hours, and December brings 318 hours, reflecting a return to sunnier days as the dry season sets in. Overall, Escuintla enjoys a vibrant sunshine landscape, contributing to its lush green environment and inviting atmosphere, particularly prominent during the drier months.
The UV Index in Escuintla, Guatemala, reveals a consistent exposure to intense solar radiation throughout the year, with values reaching extreme levels. The year begins with a UV Index of 11 in January and escalates to 12 in February, indicating that even limited sun exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. As the dry season progresses into the peak sun months, the index peaks at 14 from March through June, marking a period when sunscreen and protective clothing are essential to avoid harmful effects. This extreme exposure requires vigilance, as the potential for UV-related skin harm remains high, with a mere 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure considered risky.
As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index remains elevated but begins to show slight variations. July maintains a high index of 14, while August and September register 13, continuing the trend of significant sun exposure risk. The index starts to taper off in October with a UV Index of 12, reflecting the gradual retreat of the intensity of the sun. By November, the UV Index decreases further to 10, categorized as very high, extending the safe exposure time to 15 minutes. December brings a continued decline to 9, but caution is still advised as the year closes, emphasizing the necessity of sun protection in this vibrant, sun-soaked region of Guatemala.
UV Risk Categories
In Escuintla, Guatemala, daylight duration demonstrates a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, primarily influenced by its tropical location. The year commences in January and February with 11 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and fostering a lively atmosphere. As March arrives, daylight extends to 12 hours, reflecting the gradual increase in sunshine as the region approaches the warmer months. This 12-hour duration persists from April through August, creating an optimal environment for agriculture and outdoor leisure during what is typically considered the dry season.
As summer transitions into fall, daylight begins to taper slightly, with a return to 11 hours in both October and November. This reduction signifies the gradual onset of the rainy season, leading to a decrease in daily light availability. By December, daylight holds steady at 11 hours, maintaining a balance that supports the region's ecosystem. Overall, Escuintla experiences minimal fluctuations in daylight duration, contributing to the consistent climate that characterizes this vibrant area of Guatemala year-round.
Escuintla, Guatemala, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average highs fluctuate from 23°C (74°F) in January to 35°C (95°F) in April, while lows range from 13°C (56°F) to 18°C (65°F) throughout the year. The wettest months are May to October, with substantial rainfall peaking at 419 mm (16.5 in) in October, contrasting sharply with the drier months of January and February. Despite the wet season, sunshine remains abundant, totaling over 300 hours in many months. For detailed climate information, visit Escuintla climate.
San Vicente Pacaya, Guatemala experiences a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) in January and December to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in the warmer months of February through April. Rainfall peaks during the wet season from May to October, with June recording the highest precipitation at 358 mm (14.1 in). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with March being the sunniest month, boasting 323 hours of sunlight. If you're interested in exploring more about the weather patterns, check out San Vicente Pacaya climate.
In conclusion, Escuintla, Guatemala, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its temperature variability, substantial precipitation, intense UV exposure, and consistent daylight duration. The warm temperatures throughout the year, coupled with a pronounced rainy season, foster a rich ecosystem and vibrant landscapes. While the UV Index indicates an extremely high risk of sun exposure, particularly during the dry months, the stable daylight hours provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it encourages appropriate precautions to enjoy the region's natural beauty while safeguarding health and well-being.