Last updated: January 18, 2025
Jalapa, Guatemala, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger climate category Aw, characterized by a tropical savanna climate. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 8°C (46°F) in January, providing a stark contrast to the maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in April. With an average temperature of 22°C (71°F) throughout the year, Jalapa's climate showcases the dynamic temperature variations typical of tropical environments, significantly influencing local ecology and human activities.
In Jalapa, Guatemala, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. January and February tend to be cooler, with minimum temperatures around 8-9°C (46-48°F) and average highs reaching 33-34°C (92-94°F). As the year progresses into March and April, a notable increase in warmth is observed, with April peaking at a maximum of 36°C (97°F). By May, the minimum temperatures rise to 14°C (57°F) while maintaining similar highs, indicating the onset of slightly warmer conditions. June through September sees consistent average temperatures around 22-23°C (72-74°F), with maximums remaining in the range of 33-34°C (92-93°F), suggesting a stable, warm climate typically associated with the rainy season. The year concludes with cooler months in November and December, mirroring the earlier months with minimums again dipping to 8-10°C (46-51°F), while average highs level off around 32°C (90°F). This fluctuation from cooler to warmer conditions highlights the transitional nature of Jalapa's climate throughout the seasons.
Jalapa experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) in December and reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in April. This variation highlights the region's diverse climate, making it essential for visitors to prepare for both cooler and warmer conditions. For more detailed information, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Jalapa at monthly temperatures in Jalapa.
Jalapa, Guatemala, experiences a distinct precipitation pattern characterized by a pronounced rainy season from May to October. The early part of the year, particularly January through March, is typically dry, with minimal rainfall averaging just 5-6 mm (0.2 in) monthly, often receiving no rain at all in February and March. However, this shifts dramatically in April, where precipitation jumps to 36 mm (1.4 in), heralding the start of the rainy season. By May, rainfall peaks at 155 mm (6.1 in), with rain occurring on about 20 days, setting the stage for the wettest months that follow.
From June to September, Jalapa endures its heaviest rainfall, with June recording a significant 226 mm (8.9 in) and July also contributing with 91 mm (3.6 in). August and September continue this trend with 146 mm (5.7 in) and 179 mm (7.1 in), respectively. October remains wet, sustaining an average of 173 mm (6.8 in) over 21 days of rainfall. As the region transitions into November and December, precipitation decreases notably, with November receiving 47 mm (1.8 in) across 6 days, and December concluding the year with just 11 mm (0.5 in). This cyclical variation in precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping the local ecosystem and agricultural practices.
In Jalapa, Guatemala, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with a notable increase as the year progresses from winter to summer. Beginning in January, the region basks in approximately 251 hours of sunshine. This figure gradually rises, peaking in March at an impressive 320 hours, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. Interestingly, April also maintains high sunshine levels at 310 hours, suggesting a favorable climate for outdoor activities as the dry season leads into the more humid months.
As the rainy season approaches in May, sunshine hours moderately decline to 302 hours, but the impact is minimal compared to the preceding months. The most noteworthy aspect occurs during the mid-year months of June and July, where sunshine hours fluctuate but remain significant, with 270 hours in June and 315 hours in July. The latter month reestablishes a peak level, indicating that despite potential rain, sunny days still dominate. By late summer and into autumn, sunshine remains fairly consistent, with monthly averages between 278 and 289 hours, ensuring that Jalapa enjoys a substantial amount of sunlight year-round, even during transitionary periods.
Jalapa, Guatemala, experiences consistently high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation throughout the year, underscored by an extreme UV Index that peaks during the first half of the year. Starting in January with a UV Index of 11, the region quickly escalates to a remarkable 15 in both March and April, where the potential for harmful sun exposure is notably significant, with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. Even as the season transitions into May and June, the UV Index remains elevated at 14, reinforcing the necessity for protective measures against sun exposure during these months.
As the rainy season approaches, the UV Index does not decline substantially, maintaining a high value of 14 from June through September. This consistent UV exposure necessitates continuous awareness, particularly in outdoor activities. Only in November and December does the Index dip to 10, categorized as very high, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. Despite this decrease, the high level of UV radiation present year-round in Jalapa calls for effective sun protection strategies and regular public health messaging to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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In Jalapa, Guatemala, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. During the first few months of the year, both January and February offer approximately 11 hours of daylight, providing a stable backdrop for daily activities. As spring approaches, March sees a slight increase to 12 hours of daylight, a trend that continues through to June, maintaining this duration as the region experiences its dry season.
Come July, daylight remains steady at 12 hours as the rainy season sets in, with this average extending through September. Interestingly, as October arrives, daylight once again recedes to 11 hours, a pattern that persists into the final months of the year. This cyclical variation in daylight duration highlights a stable climate in Jalapa, where residents can expect almost equal day and night hours, ensuring ample light for varied activities throughout the seasons.
Jalapa, Guatemala experiences a temperate climate with mild temperatures year-round. January averages around 19°C (66°F) with the warmest month being April, reaching up to 23°C (73°F). The rainy season occurs primarily from May to October, peaking in June with 238 mm (9.4 in) of precipitation. Despite this, Jalapa enjoys considerable sunshine, with over 300 hours in several months, notably in March and July. For more detailed climate information, visit Jalapa climate.
In conclusion, Jalapa, Guatemala, presents a dynamic climate characterized by distinct temperature fluctuations, consistent sunshine hours, and a notably high UV Index, all underscored by a stable pattern of daylight duration throughout the year. The region transitions from cooler, dry months to a warm, rainy season, where temperatures and UV exposure remain high, particularly in the first half of the year. With ample sunlight year-round, Jalapa fosters an environment conducive to outdoor activities, though it necessitates vigilant sun protection due to extreme UV levels. Understanding these climatic features is essential for residents and visitors alike, allowing for better planning and adaptation to the region's unique environmental conditions.