Last updated: January 18, 2025
Guatemala City, situated in a unique climatic zone, predominantly exhibits the Köppen-Geiger climate types of Cwb (temperate highland) and Aw (tropical savanna). The city's temperatures fluctuate notably throughout the year, with a minimum recorded at 6°C (43°F) in December and soaring to a peak of 37°C (99°F) in April. The average temperature hovers around a pleasant 21°C (69°F), contributing to the region’s diverse ecosystems and cultural richness. This climatic variability not only influences local agriculture but also shapes the lifestyle and activities of its inhabitants.
In Guatemala City, the temperature patterns reflect a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January opens the year with cooler nights reaching a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and pleasant daytime highs up to 34°C (94°F), gradually warming through February and March. April marks the transition into warmer temperatures, achieving maximums of 37°C (99°F), before slightly cooling in May and June. The temperatures stabilize around 21°C (70°F) during the rainy months of July and August, where minimal fluctuations occur in both high and low temperatures. As the year progresses towards the end of the year, temperatures once again dip, with November and December experiencing cooler lows around 6°C (43°F) to 9°C (49°F), framing a climate that embraces both tropical savanna warmth and temperate highland coolness throughout the seasons.
In Guatemala City, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in December to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in April, making it a destination with significant temperature variation throughout the year monthly temperatures in Guatemala City. In nearby Amatitlan, temperatures are slightly milder, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) in December and a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in March monthly temperatures in Amatitlan.
Guatemala City experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with the dry months of January through March receiving minimal rainfall, averaging just 8 to 9 mm (0.3 to 0.4 in) per month. This dry spell culminates in April, where rainfall begins to rise significantly to 47 mm (1.9 in), marking the onset of the rainy season. May transitions the region into a much wetter phase, characterized by an average of 162 mm (6.4 in), as rain becomes more frequent with approximately 20 rainy days.
The peak of the rainy season occurs during June, where the city endures its heaviest precipitation, totaling 257 mm (10.1 in) over about 23 rainy days. Following June, precipitation remains elevated through August and September, with averages around 153 mm (6.0 in) and 192 mm (7.6 in), respectively. The rainy season gradually diminishes by October, which sees about 193 mm (7.6 in) of rain, tapering off significantly in November and December, when the region returns to a drier climate with only 43 mm (1.7 in) in November and a mere 9 mm (0.4 in) in December.
In Guatemala City, the duration of sunshine follows a marked seasonal pattern, with a notable increase from the winter months into the summer. January begins the year with 251 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 321 hours in March, as daylight becomes more abundant. This trend peaks in April, where residents enjoy 311 hours of sunlight, signaling the approach of the vigorous summer season. May maintains a robust level of exposure with 303 hours, while June sees a slight dip to 275 hours as clouds increasingly gather, transitioning the city into the rainier months.
Despite the reduction in sunshine during the rainy season, the city experiences notable hours of daylight throughout. July emerges as a surprising highlight, offering 317 hours of sunshine—a reprieve from the rains that allows residents to bask in warm, sunny days. Following this, August and September remain relatively consistent with 310 hours and 291 hours, respectively, though cloud cover begins to increase. The fall months witness a moderate return to more sunshine, with November capturing 297 hours and December rebounding to 313 hours. Overall, Guatemala City showcases the interplay between sunshine duration and seasonal rainfall, underlining its diverse and vibrant climate.
Guatemala City is characterized by a consistently high UV Index, particularly prominent during the peak months. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 11, the city falls into the extreme exposure category, highlighting the urgent need for sun protection. February escalates further to 13, and March reaches a peak of 15, the maximum level recorded throughout the year, where a mere 10 minutes of unprotected exposure can lead to skin damage. April maintains this intensity with the same UV Index of 15, followed closely by May and June at 14, stressing the necessity for caution during outdoor activities.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains elevated, featuring compelling values throughout the summer months. July mirrors March and April with a UV Index of 15, followed by a slight easing in August and September at 14. October observes a slight decrease to 13, while November drops to 11, indicating the end of the peak UV season. Interestingly, December experiences an UV Index of 10, noted as very high, but with a longer burn time of 15 minutes, providing a glimpse of relief. The consistently extreme levels of UV exposure throughout the year necessitate robust sun safety strategies for residents and visitors alike.
UV Risk Categories
In Guatemala City, daylight duration varies modestly throughout the year, influenced by its tropical highland climate. January and February set the stage with an even balance of 11 hours of daylight, providing a stable but relatively brief window for outdoor activities. As spring approaches, March marks a shift towards longer days, extending to 12 hours, a trend that persists through the summer months of April, May, June, July, and August. This consistent 12-hour daylight duration supports a vibrant lifestyle, allowing for extensive engagement with the outdoors.
As the seasons transition into fall, daylight gradually recedes again in October, back to 11 hours, mirroring the pattern seen at the start of the year. Similarly, November and December follow suit, also featuring 11 hours of daylight. This cyclical nature of daylight in Guatemala City reflects its geographical stability, ensuring that residents and visitors can plan activities accordingly, whether capitalizing on the extensive sunny days of summer or embracing the shorter daylight hours of the cooler months.
Amatitlán, Guatemala experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in January to 21°C (70°F) in April, often peaking at 31°C (88°F) in February through April. Precipitation is highest from May to September, with June seeing the most rainfall at 358 mm (14.1 in). Sunshine hours vary, with March boasting the most sunlight at 323 hours. For a detailed view of the weather patterns, visit Amatitlan climate.
Guatemala City experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in December to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) in April and May. The wet season from May to October sees significant rainfall, particularly in June with 161 mm (6.4 in), while the dry months from December to March enjoy plentiful sunshine, reaching up to 318 hours in March. For more detailed information, visit Guatemala City climate.
In conclusion, Guatemala City showcases a unique and dynamic climate characterized by consistent temperature ranges, significant rainfall patterns, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. With extreme UV Index levels and varying daylight durations, both residents and visitors must remain mindful of the sun's intensity and regulate their outdoor activities accordingly. The interplay of these climatic factors not only shapes the local environment but also influences cultural practices, agricultural cycles, and everyday life. Embracing this rich and diverse climate offers opportunities for a deeper appreciation of Guatemala's stunning landscapes and vibrant communities.