Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Huehuetenango, Guatemala, is characterized by a unique blend of Köppen-Geiger classes, predominantly Cwb and Aw, which reflect its diverse topography and elevation. The region experiences a significant temperature range, with minimum lows plunging to 2°C (35°F) in January, while peak summer months see temperatures soaring up to 38°C (100°F) in May. With an average annual temperature hovering around 17°C (63°F), the climate presents a striking contrast, influencing not only the local ecosystem but also the livelihoods of its inhabitants. This climatic variability plays a crucial role in shaping the agricultural practices and cultural dynamics of the area.
Huehuetenango, Guatemala, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns, with cooler months occurring from January to March marked by minimum temperatures dropping to around 2-3°C (35-38°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 35°C (96°F) in March. As spring transitions into summer, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and maximums soaring to a scorching 38°C (100°F). The subsequent months of June through August witness a slight cooling trend, with daily averages stabilizing around 18°C (64°F), while maximum temperatures remain generally consistent at approximately 34-35°C (94-95°F). The autumn months of September to November see a return to cooler temperatures, with lows around 5-7°C (41-45°F) and highs tapering off to 32-33°C (90-92°F), ultimately leading back into the cooler winter months. This fluctuation not only defines the local climate but also influences agricultural cycles and daily life for the residents.
Huehuetenango experiences a minimum temperature of 3°C (37°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Huehuetenango. In contrast, Todos Santos Cuchumatan records a lower minimum of 2°C (35°F) in January and peaks at 26°C (80°F) in February, as shown in the monthly temperatures in Todos Santos Cuchumatan.
Huehuetenango, Guatemala, experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with the dry months of January through March seeing minimal rainfall ranging from 17 mm (0.7 in) to 26 mm (1.0 in). As the region transitions into the wet season by late spring, April marks a significant increase in rainfall, accumulating 60 mm (2.3 in) over approximately 11 rainy days. This upward trend culminates in May, where precipitation dramatically escalates to 206 mm (8.1 in) across 24 days, setting the stage for the intense rainy season characterized by abundant moisture.
The peak of precipitation occurs from June to September, with June recording the highest monthly total of 364 mm (14.3 in), often accompanied by significant thunderstorms. Following closely, August and September contribute 251 mm (9.9 in) and 301 mm (11.9 in), respectively, maintaining elevated levels of rainfall. As the rainy season concludes in October, precipitation remains substantial at 244 mm (9.6 in), followed by a gradual decrease towards the drier months of November and December, where rainfall dips back to 82 mm (3.2 in) and 26 mm (1.0 in), respectively. This seasonal precipitation pattern profoundly influences the region's agriculture, hydrology, and overall ecosystem dynamics.
In Huehuetenango, Guatemala, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal trend characterized by increasing hours from winter into summer. January begins the year with approximately 247 hours of sunshine, gradually rising through February to reach 284 hours in the dry month of March. Notably, March stands out as the month with the highest observed sunshine, peaking at 321 hours. This trend of abundant sunlight continues into April and May, with sunshine hours remaining consistently high at around 313 and 307 hours, respectively, supporting the region’s dry conditions and enhancing outdoor activities.
With the transition into the rainy season around June, there is a noticeable decline in sunshine hours, falling to 271 hours. However, July rebounds with 322 hours, making it one of the sunniest months despite the precipitation. The trend continues with relatively stable sunshine durations through August and September, averaging around 317 and 292 hours, respectively. As the year draws to a close, sunshine hours remain commendable in October (285 hours) and November (297 hours), before returning to a slightly lower duration of 310 hours in December. Overall, the variation in sunshine not only reflects seasonal shifts but also plays a crucial role in shaping local weather patterns and agricultural productivity throughout the year.
Huehuetenango, Guatemala, is characterized by an extreme UV Index throughout most of the year, reflecting the region's elevated altitude and proximity to the equator. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 12, indicating extreme risk for unprotected skin, and this intensity escalates to 14 in February and peaks at 16 during March and April. These high levels necessitate cautious sun exposure, with a burn time of just 10 minutes noted for these months. Even as the rainy season approaches in June, the UV Index remains high at 15, underscoring the persistent need for sun protection measures despite increased cloud cover.
As the year progresses, the UV Index remains consistently extreme, with July again reaching 16 before stabilizing to 15 in the following months of August and September. October sees a slight dip to 14, while November drops further to 11, transitioning to a very high UV Index of 10 in December, with a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. The data highlights the potential health risks associated with prolonged sun exposure in this region, emphasizing the importance of adequate sun protection year-round to safeguard against UV-related skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Huehuetenango, Guatemala, daylight duration exhibits a predictable pattern throughout the year, closely aligned with the region's tropical latitude. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable backdrop for daily life and agricultural activities. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to increase slightly, reaching 12 hours and maintaining this duration through April and May. This moderate increase in daylight is especially beneficial for crops during the growing season, allowing for ample sunlight for photosynthesis.
The trend continues into June, when daylight extends to 13 hours, offering the longest daylight duration of the year. However, as summer transitions to fall, daylight hours gradually revert to 12 hours from July through September, before dipping back to 11 hours in October and repeating the cycle in November and December. This steady rhythm of daylight not only influences local climate conditions but also plays a vital role in shaping the daily routines and cultural practices of the residents throughout the year.
Huehuetenango, Guatemala, experiences a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) in January to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April. The region sees a distinct rainy season, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in June (284 mm) and the warmest months being May through September. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 322 hours in March, while maintaining a healthy average throughout the year. The climate allows for a mix of cool nights and warm days, making it a unique destination. For more details, visit Huehuetenango climate.
The climate in Todos Santos Cuchumatan, Guatemala, features mild temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 12°C (55°F) in January to 16°C (60°F) in May. Minimum temperatures can drop to as low as 2°C (35°F) during winter months, while maximums peak at around 26°C (79°F) from March to April. Precipitation is notable, particularly in the rainy season from May to September, where May sees the highest rainfall at 274 mm (10.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, with July receiving the most hours at 325. For more detailed information, visit Todos Santos Cuchumatan climate.
In conclusion, Huehuetenango, Guatemala, presents a rich tapestry of climatic and environmental characteristics shaped by its unique geographical location. The region's temperature patterns reveal significant seasonal variations, with distinct dry and wet periods that influence local agriculture and daily life. Coupled with robust sunshine and intense UV Index levels, the abundant daylight duration further highlights the region’s suitability for various outdoor activities and agricultural practices. Understanding these climatic dynamics is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it underscores the importance of sun protection and effective agricultural planning amidst the shifting seasons. Together, these factors contribute to the vibrant ecosystem and cultural identity of Huehuetenango.