Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Quiché, Guatemala, is characterized by a unique blend of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, specifically Cwb (temperate highland) and Aw (tropical savanna). Temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year, with a minimum recorded at 2°C (36°F) in January and an average temperature maintaining a mild 18°C (65°F). The region experiences a peak maximum of 42°C (108°F) in May, highlighting the dramatic temperature variations that define its diverse climatic conditions. This climatic diversity influences both the local ecosystem and the agricultural practices, making it a vital area of study in the context of climate change and environmental adaptation.
In Quiché, Guatemala, temperature patterns display a clear seasonal progression throughout the year. The months from January to May showcase a gradual warming trend, starting with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) in January and peaking in May at maximums of 42°C (108°F). This early portion of the year also sees a steady rise in average temperatures, culminating in a warm average of 20°C (68°F) by May. The summer months, from June to August, witness a slight cooling, with maximum temperatures lingering in the mid to high 30s °C (95-100°F), while maintaining consistent average temperatures around 19°C (66°F). As the year progresses towards the end, temperatures begin to drop again, particularly noticeable in December when minimums return to around 3°C (37°F). Overall, Quiché exhibits distinct seasonal fluctuations, transitioning from cooler, drier months to warmer, more humid periods, emphasizing its diverse climatic characteristics.
Nebaj experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) in January to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) in April, while Chichicastenango records slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in January and a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April. For more detailed insights, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Nebaj here and in Chichicastenango here.
Quiché, Guatemala, experiences a distinctive precipitation pattern characterized by a pronounced wet season and a drier period. The year begins with relatively low rainfall, averaging around 49 mm (1.9 in) in January and tapering to just 29 mm (1.1 in) in March. However, a significant shift occurs in May, where precipitation surges to an impressive 191 mm (7.5 in), marking the onset of the rainy season. June brings the highest monthly totals, peaking at 322 mm (12.7 in) over an average of 26 rainy days, followed closely by substantial rainfall in July and August, which further enrich the region’s lush landscapes.
As the rainy season progresses, Quiché sees consistent precipitation through to October, with monthly averages fluctuating between 241 mm (9.5 in) and 263 mm (10.4 in). The wettest months, August and September, showcase the region's capacity for heavy rainfall, contributing to a total of over 1,100 mm (43.3 in) during this critical period. Conversely, the precipitation begins to taper off towards the end of the year, with November and December receiving 110 mm (4.3 in) and 47 mm (1.8 in), respectively. This seasonal variation not only influences local hydrology but also significantly impacts agriculture and biodiversity in the region.
In Quiché, Guatemala, sunshine duration reveals a fascinating seasonal rhythm, with a steady increase from the cooler months of winter to the warmer summer period. Starting the year, January sees about 231 hours of sunlight, which gradually rises through February to reach 274 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where the region enjoys its longest sunshine with an impressive 313 hours, and slightly dips in April to 308 hours. May experiences a minor decrease, averaging 301 hours, yet still maintains a notable amount of sunlight as the rainy season approaches.
As the summer months unfold, Quiché remains basked in sunlight. July and August showcase remarkable sunshine durations of 319 and 315 hours, respectively, making them among the sunniest months of the year. This trend continues into September, with 295 hours, as the region transitions into the rainy season, where cloud cover may impact sunlight availability. Subsequently, October and November record a slight decline in sunshine hours, bringing in 281 and 283 hours, respectively. By December, the region returns to a healthy 291 hours of sunshine, wrapping up the year on a positive note. Overall, Quiché's sunshine patterns underscore the dynamic interplay between seasonal changes and atmospheric conditions, significantly influencing both climate and local life.
In Quiché, Guatemala, the UV Index consistently ranks in the extreme category throughout much of the year, presenting significant implications for sun safety and health. Beginning in January, the UV Index measures at 11, escalating to a peak of 16 in April, indicating a critical need for protection against harmful UV radiation. The month of March registers the highest level at 15, with an astonishing burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This extreme exposure is prevalent until November, when the UV Index drops to 11, suggesting a slight decrease as the year progresses.
Interestingly, even later in the year, UV levels remain notably high, with December recording a UV Index of 10, classified as very high, though with an increased burn time of 15 minutes. During the summer months, specifically from June to August, the UV Index stabilizes around 15, illustrating that the region remains under substantial solar radiation. The sustained extremity of the UV Index across the majority of the year demonstrates the importance of appropriate sun protection measures, emphasizing the necessity of sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to mitigate health risks related to UV exposure in Quiché.
UV Risk Categories
In Quiché, Guatemala, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with noticeable seasonal variations that reflect the region's tropical latitude. The year begins with approximately 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a moderate amount of sunlight during the cooler months. As the spring months progress, daylight extends to a consistent 12 hours from March through September, giving residents ample time to engage in outdoor activities and agricultural practices. This prolonged daylight during the heart of the year accentuates the lush landscapes that define the region.
However, as the year transitions into autumn and winter, daylight hours decrease again, with October through December all returning to the 11-hour mark. This rhythm of daylight duration not only influences daily life in Quiché but also aligns closely with local climatic patterns. The consistent 12 hours of daylight during the warmer months suggests an optimal environment for crop growth, while the return to shorter days emphasizes the cyclical nature of the region's ecosystem. Overall, Quiché’s daylight patterns reflect a balance that supports both ecological health and human activities throughout the year.
Chichicastenango, Guatemala, experiences a mild climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in January to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April. The wet season spans from May to October, with June recording the highest precipitation at 261 mm (10.3 in), while January has the least rainfall at 13 mm (0.5 in). During the dry season, particularly from November to February, sunshine hours peak, especially in March with 315 hours. This combination of warm temperatures, varying precipitation, and abundant sunshine allows for a vibrant environment throughout the year. For more details, visit Chichicastenango climate.
The climate in Nebaj, Guatemala, is characterized by mild temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) in January to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) in April, while precipitation peaks from May through October, with June receiving the highest rainfall at 336 mm (13.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in March with 313 hours, but the wettest months coincide with lower sunshine hours, particularly in June. For more detailed climate information, visit Nebaj climate.
In conclusion, Quiché, Guatemala, showcases a remarkable interplay of climatic factors that shape its unique environment and lifestyle. From the significant temperature fluctuations between the cooler winter months and the warmer summer period, to the pronounced wet and dry seasons that dictate rainfall patterns, the region's climate is both diverse and dynamic. Coupled with high UV indices that necessitate vigilant sun protection and stable daylight durations that support agricultural endeavors, Quiché emerges as a vital region of interest in studying climate trends and their effects on ecology and human habitation. Understanding these climatic nuances not only enhances our appreciation of Quiché's natural beauty but also underscores the importance of adapting to the changing environmental landscape.