Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Totonicapán, Guatemala, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cwb, indicative of a temperate highland climate. The region experiences a notable temperature range, with minimums dipping to 2°C (36°F) in January, while average temperatures hover around 16°C (60°F) throughout the year. The warmest month is April, where maximum temperatures can reach 31°C (87°F), providing a stark contrast to the cooler months. This unique climatic profile plays a significant role in shaping the local ecosystem and agricultural practices, making Totonicapán a fascinating study in highland climate dynamics.
In Totonicapán, Guatemala, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal variation, characterized by a mild climate throughout the year. January often marks the coldest month, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). As the year progresses into the warmer months of April and May, temperatures peak, with April experiencing maximums of 31°C (87°F). Late spring transitions into a cooler, stable period from June to September, where average temperatures consistently hover around 16°C (61°F), accompanied by maximums in the 25-27°C (77-80°F) range. The approach of winter in October through December brings a slight dip in temperatures again, but overall, Totonicapán maintains a relatively mild climate, making it an appealing region for agriculture and diverse ecosystems.
San Andres Xecul experiences a notable range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in January, making it the coldest month, and a maximum of 26°C (80°F) in April, which marks one of the warmest times. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures in San Andres Xecul, you can visit monthly temperatures in San Andres Xecul.
Totonicapán, Guatemala, showcases a pronounced wet and dry season, reflected in its monthly precipitation patterns. The year begins with relatively low rainfall, where January receives only 22 mm (0.9 in), followed closely by February at 16 mm (0.6 in). As the climate shifts into the warmer months, precipitation begins to rise dramatically, culminating in April with 78 mm (3.1 in). The onset of the rainy season in May is significant, as it experiences a staggering 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain over an average of 28 days, kicking off a period of high humidity and frequent showers that persist through June and July.
June stands out with the highest monthly total at 344 mm (13.5 in), with rainfall spanning nearly the entire month. The trend continues, with September often being the wettest month at 301 mm (11.8 in), illustrating the peak of the rainy season. Post-September, precipitation begins to decline, leading into November and December, which see reduced amounts of 68 mm (2.7 in) and 25 mm (1.0 in), respectively. This seasonal variation in precipitation not only shapes the local landscape but also influences agricultural practices and biodiversity within the region.
In Totonicapán, Guatemala, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, characterized by a progressive increase in sunlight hours as the year unfolds. From January to March, the region experiences a notable rise in sunshine, starting at 245 hours in January and peaking at 319 hours in March. This aligns with the transition from the cooler winter months to the warmer pre-rainy season, suggesting that residents and visitors can expect ample sun during this period. Even April maintains strong sun exposure at 310 hours, providing an ideal backdrop for various outdoor activities before the onset of the rainy season.
As the rainy season begins in May, sunshine duration slightly recedes, totaling 298 hours. However, sunshine hours remain relatively robust throughout the summer months, particularly in July, when the region enjoys 314 hours of sunshine. This trend continues into August and September, demonstrating that despite increased rainfall, Totonicapán still benefits from substantial sunlight, averaging about 309 hours and 285 hours, respectively. By the end of the year, daylight remains generous, particularly in December with 306 hours, reinforcing that even during the rainy season, the region enjoys a balanced interplay of sunshine and rain, shaping its vibrant ecosystems and agricultural calendar.
In Totonicapán, Guatemala, the UV Index consistently registers at high to extreme levels throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of sun safety for residents and visitors alike. Starting in January with a UV Index of 12, the levels escalate sharply in the following months, reaching a peak of 16 in both March and April. During this period, the UV exposure category remains categorized as extreme, with a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend continues through the spring and summer months, where values hover between 15 and 16, underscoring the necessity for protective measures against intense solar radiation.
As the year progresses into the fall, the UV Index begins to decline but remains notably high. October and November see values ranging from 11 to 14, still falling within the extreme exposure category, meaning that sun protection is still essential. December marks a further decrease, with a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, yet allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes before risking sunburn. These data highlight the need for continued vigilance against UV exposure in Totonicapán, particularly during the peak months when the sun can be particularly harsh.
UV Risk Categories
In Totonicapán, Guatemala, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. January and February experience 11 hours of daylight, providing a stable baseline as the year begins. As spring arrives in March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a trend that persists through the summer months of April to September. This consistent daylight offers ample opportunity for outdoor activities and agriculture, fostering a vibrant ecosystem and supporting local livelihoods.
As the year transitions into fall, daylight hours gradually decrease once again, returning to 11 hours in October and remaining at that level through December. This cyclical pattern underscores the predictable nature of daylight in Totonicapán, where residents can rely on a balanced allocation of light across the seasons. Such consistency not only shapes daily routines but also influences agricultural practices, allowing farmers to plan their planting and harvesting schedules with confidence throughout the year.
San Andres Xecul, Guatemala, experiences a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 13°C (56°F) in January to 17°C (62°F) in May. Rainfall is notable, peaking in May at 290 mm (11.4 in) and continuing through September, while the dry season sees much lower precipitation from January to March. Sunshine varies throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in March at 322, offering plenty of bright days. For more detailed climate information, visit San Andres Xecul climate.
In conclusion, Totonicapán, Guatemala, presents a unique climatic and environmental profile characterized by its temperate highland weather, significant seasonal rainfall, robust sunshine hours, and high UV exposure. The region's consistency in daylight duration supports agricultural practices, while the distinct wet and dry seasons dictate local lifestyles and ecological patterns. As both residents and visitors navigate these climatic conditions, awareness of sunshine exposure and rain patterns becomes crucial for health and safety, as well as for maximizing outdoor activities. Overall, Totonicapán offers a striking example of how climate and ecology interplay to shape the experiences of those who inhabit or explore this vibrant highland region.