Last updated: January 18, 2025
Zacapa, Guatemala, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Aw (tropical savanna) and Am (tropical monsoon). The region experiences a temperature range that significantly varies throughout the year, with minimum temperatures dropping to 9°C (49°F) in February and soaring to maximums of 40°C (104°F) in May. The average temperature remains a moderate 23°C (73°F), making it a place of remarkable climatic contrasts, shaped by its distinct wet and dry seasons.
Zacapa, Guatemala, experiences a distinct seasonal temperature pattern characterized by a gradual warming trend from the cooler months of January to March, where minimum temperatures start at 9°C (49°F) and peak at 37°C (98°F) in March. As spring transitions into summer, April and May witness significant increases, with maximum temperatures reaching their highest point of 40°C (104°F) in May, accompanied by a rise in humidity. Following May, the rainy season begins, bringing slightly cooler temperatures in June, July, and August, with averages settling around 23-25°C (75-78°F) and maximums ranging from 33°C (91°F) to 36°C (96°F). The months of September and October maintain similar averages, while November cools again, mirroring earlier winter months. This cyclical pattern reflects the region's tropical savanna climate, alternating between dry heat and moist periods throughout the year.
Zacapa experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January seeing a minimum of 12°C (53°F), while the temperatures peak at a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in May. For more detailed monthly temperatures in Zacapa, visit monthly temperatures in Zacapa.
Zacapa, Guatemala, experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with distinct dry and wet periods throughout the year. From January to April, rainfall is relatively low, averaging between 35 mm (1.4 in) and 43 mm (1.7 in) monthly, typically falling over 8 to 9 days. This period represents the dry season, allowing for ample sunny days. However, as May approaches, a dramatic shift occurs, marked by a significant increase in rainfall to 171 mm (6.7 in), alongside a rise in the number of rainy days, which soar to 23.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from June to October, where Zacapa faces the brunt of precipitation, with June recording as much as 285 mm (11.2 in). This is followed by consistent outputs in July, August, and September, with averages around 156 mm (6.2 in) to 214 mm (8.4 in) per month, often spread over 25 to 27 days. The rainy season gradually recedes in November and December, with rainfall decreasing to 106 mm (4.2 in) and 47 mm (1.9 in), respectively, signaling a return to the drier conditions typical of early in the year.
In Zacapa, Guatemala, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from January through May. Starting at 205 hours in January, the month-to-month growth is notable, culminating in 305 hours in May. This transition into the summer months is marked by nearly continuous sunny days, making this period ideal for outdoor activities and agriculture. Notably, April and May stand out as peak sunshine months, with both months experiencing over 300 hours of sunlight, fostering an environment ripe for growth and enjoyment of outdoor life.
As the rainy season approaches in June, sunshine hours begin to decline, yet the levels remain significant at 269 hours. Following this, July and August see a slight recovery, each offering around 299 to 300 hours of sunshine despite increased precipitation. The trend then gradually decreases again in September through November, where sunlight averages between 258 to 290 hours. This rhythmic pattern presents a vibrant interplay between prolonged sunny conditions in the dry season and a resilient, albeit slightly reduced, sunshine presence during the rainy months, reflecting the dynamic climate of Zacapa.
Zacapa, Guatemala, experiences a notably high UV Index throughout the year, reflecting its tropical climate and proximity to the equator. From January to May, the index reaches its peak, starting at 11 in January and escalating to 15 in April. This extreme exposure categorizes these months as periods requiring vigilant sun protection, as the burn time for unprotected skin is a mere 10 minutes. As sunlight intensifies, particularly in March and April, precautions are essential to prevent skin damage, making it critical for residents and visitors to employ effective sun safety practices.
As the year progresses into the summer months, the UV Index moderately levels off, remaining at 14 from June through August before tapering off in September and October to 13. Even in these months, the exposure remains classified under the "extreme" category. By November, the UV Index decreases to 10, transitioning to "very high," while in December, it drops slightly to 9, where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. Although the UV Index adjusts downward, the values still warrant caution, underscoring the need for sustained sun protection strategies in Zacapa, regardless of the season.
UV Risk Categories
In Zacapa, Guatemala, daylight duration exhibits a consistent and relatively stable pattern throughout the year, influenced by its tropical location near the equator. In the first two months of January and February, residents enjoy about 11 hours of daylight, which signals the end of the dry season. As spring approaches, daylight increases slightly to 12 hours from March through August, providing longer evenings and ample sunlight for various activities. This extended exposure during the mid-year months supports the region's agricultural practices, promoting growth and vitality.
As the year progresses into the latter months, daylight duration gradually decreases again to 11 hours in October, November, and December, mirroring the early winter months. This return to shorter days marks the onset of the dry season, transitioning back to a more stable period with less variability in daylight. Overall, Zacapa's relatively constant daylight hours, averaging between 11 to 12 hours, contribute to a consistent climate that fosters a lifestyle deeply connected to nature and the changing seasons.
Zacapa, Guatemala experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Monthly average temperatures range from a low of 21°C (69°F) in January to a high of 26°C (79°F) in April and May. Precipitation is minimal from January to March, but surges significantly during the rainy season from May to October, peaking in June with 290 mm (11.4 in). The region also enjoys considerable sunshine, with March and April offering over 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Zacapa climate.
In conclusion, Zacapa, Guatemala, presents a unique climate characterized by its warm temperatures, significant seasonal variations in precipitation, high UV index, and stable daylight duration. The distinct transition from a relatively dry season to a pronounced rainy period shapes the ecosystem and agricultural practices in the region, while the consistently elevated UV index emphasizes the importance of sun protection year-round. With its dependable daylight hours averaging between 11 to 12 hours, residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle closely tied to the rhythms of nature. Collectively, these climatic factors form the backbone of Zacapa’s identity, influencing daily life, health, and environmental interactions across the seasons.