Last updated: January 18, 2025
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, exhibits a distinct climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Aw and Cwb, indicative of a tropical savanna and a subtropical highland climate. The region experiences a minimum temperature plunging to 4°C (40°F) in January, while the average temperature hovers around 18°C (65°F) throughout the year. The maximum temperature can soar to 37°C (99°F) in April, reflecting the significant thermal variability that defines this highland area. These temperature ranges demonstrate how Quetzaltenango's climate supports a diverse ecosystem and shapes the local lifestyle of its residents.
In Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, temperature patterns exhibit a notable seasonal rhythm, shaped by the region's highland climate. The year begins with brisk January temperatures, where minimums drop to 4°C (40°F), while averages remain cool at 17°C (62°F). As the months progress to April, the climate warms significantly, reaching a peak maximum of 37°C (99°F), showcasing the transition into the warmer season. May maintains these elevated temperatures, with consistently high averages around 19°C (66°F), before cooling slightly through the mid-year months. From June to November, the temperatures stabilize with average readings remaining around 18°C (65°F), reflecting a temperate climate despite some fluctuation in maximums. The year concludes with a return to cooler temperatures in December, while still registering maximums above 30°C (86°F). This seasonal trend underscores Quetzaltenango's climatic diversity, balancing cooler highland conditions with warm savanna influences throughout the year.
Quetzaltenango experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in February to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) in August, making it a pleasant destination throughout much of the year (monthly temperatures in Quetzaltenango). In contrast, Coatepeque has slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) in January and a peak of 28°C (83°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Coatepeque).
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, experiences a dynamic precipitation pattern throughout the year, marked by a distinct wet and dry season. The year begins relatively dry, with January receiving only 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain over 9 days, while February sees a slight increase to 42 mm (1.7 in). However, as the months progress into March and April, precipitation escalates dramatically, culminating in 181 mm (7.1 in) during the latter month. This early phase of the wet season sets the stage for the peak rainfall observed in May, when an astonishing 518 mm (20.4 in) falls over 31 days, establishing May as the wettest month.
Following May’s peak, rainfall remains substantial, with June bringing 456 mm (18.0 in) and subsequent months sustaining high totals, including 399 mm (15.7 in) in August and 446 mm (17.6 in) in September. The rainy season typically extends until October, which receives 374 mm (14.7 in), before tapering off into November with 127 mm (5.0 in). As the year concludes, December sees a significant reduction in both rainfall and rainy days, capturing just 45 mm (1.8 in) over 11 days. This annual cycle of precipitation underscores the region's lush biodiversity and agricultural productivity, driven by the rainy months that sustain its ecosystem.
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, showcases a notable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, reflecting distinct seasonal trends. The year kicks off with January delivering 253 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 285 hours in February and peaking in March at 322 hours. These early months herald the onset of sunnier weather, as the region transitions from the cooler, cloudier winter towards the spring. April maintains robust sunshine with 312 hours, before entering May, which sees a slight decrease to 302 hours. Notably, despite the onset of the rainy season, sunshine remains abundant during these months, illustrating the region's capacity for both sun and rain.
As the rainy season progresses, the sunshine hours dip to 268 hours in June, reflecting an increase in cloud cover typical of that time. However, from July to October, sunshine remains relatively stable, with July and August each recording around 312 and 303 hours, respectively. This period provides a balance of sunshine and moisture, necessary for the region’s agriculture. As the year comes to a close, November sees a recovery with 297 hours followed by a strong finish in December at 314 hours. Overall, the data reveals that the sun shines brightest from late winter through summer, while the wet months still enjoy a substantial share of daylight, fostering an interconnected ecosystem of sunlight and rainfall.
In Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, reflecting the region's elevation and proximity to the equator. The year begins with an alarming UV Index of 12 in January, categorized as extreme, with a swift increase to 14 in February and peaking at 16 in March and April. During these peak months, individuals are cautioned to limit sun exposure to just 10 minutes to prevent skin damage. The trend highlights the urgency for sun protection measures, as even during the early spring, the intensity of UV radiation poses significant risks to those who venture outdoors without adequate safeguards.
As the year progresses into the summer months and beyond, the UV Index remains elevated at around 15 to 16 from May to July, consistently marked as extreme. Although there is a slight reduction to 14 in September and October, the risk remains considerable; all months exhibit a burn time of only 10 minutes. November sees a slight decline to 11, while December drops to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a marginally longer burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, the persistent extreme readings throughout the year emphasize the necessity for protective strategies against harmful UV rays, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike in this sun-soaked region.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, remains relatively stable throughout the year, influenced by its tropical highland climate. The year starts with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a consistent light source during the cooler winter months. As spring approaches, daylight increases to 12 hours in March, maintaining this length through June. This period encourages outdoor activities and agricultural endeavors, capitalizing on the ample sunlight as the region transitions into a warmer climate.
As the year progresses toward the latter half, daylight remains constant at 12 hours from July to September, reinforcing the notion of a balanced light cycle. However, as the days shorten, October marks a return to 11 hours of daylight, continuing through November and December. This gradual shift emphasizes the cyclical nature of daylight in Quetzaltenango, where residents can expect reliable light during both the rainy and dry seasons. Overall, the consistency in daylight hours throughout the year contributes to the region's agricultural patterns and offers a stable environment for both people and nature.
Coatepeque, Guatemala experiences a mild tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 19°C (67°F) in January to 21°C (70°F) during the warmer months. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in May with 702 mm (27.6 in) and April reaching 248 mm (9.8 in), while drier months like January and December receive only 51 mm (2.0 in) and 71 mm (2.8 in), respectively. Sunshine is plentiful, peaking at 322 hours in March and generally averaging around 300 hours monthly. This combination of temperatures and precipitation contributes to a lush environment, making it a unique climate. For more details, visit Coatepeque climate.
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, experiences a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in July, peaking at a maximum of 26°C (79°F) during the warmer months. The area has a significant rainy season, particularly from May to October, with May receiving the highest precipitation at 644 mm (25.4 in). Conversely, the driest months are January and December, with only 32 mm (1.2 in) and 48 mm (1.9 in) of rainfall, respectively. Sunshine is abundant, especially in February and March, with over 285 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit Quetzaltenango climate.
In conclusion, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, presents a unique climate characterized by distinct temperature patterns, significant precipitation, high UV index levels, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The interplay of these climatic elements fosters a rich ecological landscape, vital for agriculture and biodiversity. With temperatures fluctuating from cooler lows in the winter to warmer peaks in the summer, combined with a robust rainy season, the region thrives under ample sunlight and extreme UV exposure. As residents and visitors navigate these environmental conditions, understanding the seasonal trends in weather and sunlight becomes essential for optimizing outdoor activities and ensuring personal safety against harmful UV radiation. This multifaceted climate not only shapes the lifestyle of those who inhabit Quetzaltenango but also highlights the importance of sustainable practices to protect its unique natural heritage.