Last updated: January 18, 2025
Cortés, Honduras, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger classifications of Am (Tropical Monsoon) and Af (Tropical Rainforest). The region experiences a temperature range that reflects its vibrant environmental conditions, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January, an average of 25°C (78°F) throughout the year, and peaks reaching a sweltering 41°C (105°F) in April. This climatic diversity underpins the region's rich biodiversity and plays a critical role in its agricultural practices.
The temperature patterns in Cortés, Honduras, reveal distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. January and February showcase cooler temperatures, with minimums around 13°C (56°F) and an increase in averages from 22°C (72°F) to 24°C (75°F). As the year progresses into the hotter months of March and April, maximum temperatures soar, reaching up to 41°C (105°F) in April, while averages rise to 27°C (80°F). The peak of heat occurs in May, where despite slightly cooler minimums, the region experiences maximums remaining high at 40°C (105°F). Following this peak, temperatures moderate during the rainy season from June through October, with average temperatures stabilizing around 26-28°C (79-82°F) and maximums generally peaking at 37°C (98°F). As the year closes, temperatures again dip, particularly in December, returning to their cooler January levels, signifying a cyclical climatic rhythm indicative of a tropical environment.
Omoa experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) in January and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in June, providing a warm climate throughout the year monthly temperatures in Omoa. In contrast, both Agua Azul and Santa Cruz de Yojoa have a cooler minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January, but they can reach maximum temperatures of 40°C (104°F) in April, leading to higher heat peaks during that month monthly temperatures in Agua Azul monthly temperatures in Santa Cruz de Yojoa.
Cortés, Honduras, experiences a diverse precipitation pattern that varies significantly throughout the year. The wet season, starting in May and extending through November, is characterized by substantial rainfall, with May receiving 124 mm (4.9 in) and reaching a peak of 281 mm (11.1 in) in November. These months not only see higher rainfall totals but also a considerable increase in the number of rainy days, with June, July, and October averaging 24 to 25 days of precipitation, reflecting the impact of tropical weather systems.
In contrast, the drier months, from January to April, present a more moderate climate. January begins the year with 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while precipitation decreases notably in the following months, dropping to 57 mm (2.2 in) by April. This trend is coupled with fewer rainy days, with January and February averaging around 11 to 14 days of rainfall. As the region transitions to wetter conditions in late spring, the shift underscores the climate's strong seasonal influence, significantly affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
In Cortés, Honduras, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal trend, with hours gradually increasing as the year progresses from winter to summer. Beginning in January with 209 hours, sunlight hours steadily rise, peaking in May at 317 hours. This upward trajectory continues into the early summer months, with April and July maintaining impressive sunshine totals of 309 hours and 312 hours, respectively. The abundance of sunlight during these months supports not only the vibrant flora of the region but also enhances agricultural productivity, vital for local economies.
As the year transitions into autumn, the total sunshine hours begin to taper off. Despite still significant sunlight in September at 301 hours, the hours start to decline, reaching 249 hours in November. This decrease reflects the changing weather patterns as the rainy season takes hold, resulting in fewer clear days. However, even in the latter months of the year, daylight remains prominent, with December recording 262 hours of sunshine. Overall, the pattern indicates a clear delineation between the sun-soaked summer and the more subdued autumn and winter months, showcasing the dynamic climate of Cortés.
The UV Index in Cortés, Honduras, showcases a significant variation throughout the year, reflecting the region's intense tropical sun exposure. From January, when the UV Index measures 10 and the exposure is categorized as "very high," the level of ultraviolet radiation climbs sharply. February marks a considerable increase, reaching an "extreme" category with a UV Index of 12, which continues to escalate through the spring and summer months, maintaining a peak of 14 from March to August. During this period, the burn time is notably short—only 10 minutes—emphasizing the urgent need for sun protection during outdoor activities.
As the year transitions into the autumn months, the UV Index remains high, with values of 13 in September and October before tapering down to 10 in November and 9 in December, where the exposure category returns to "very high" with burn times extending back to 15 minutes. This gradual decrease indicates a shifting solar angle and the onset of the rainy season, which provides some respite from the extreme UV radiation typical of the earlier months. Overall, the data underscores the importance of sun safety measures in Cortés, particularly during the peak months when sun intensity can pose health risks if precautions are not taken.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Cortés, Honduras, exhibits a relatively consistent pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical location. In the early months of January and February, daylight lasts approximately 11 hours, providing a steady, if limited, amount of sunlight. As the days progress into March, daylight slightly increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April and May. This stable duration fosters a conducive environment for agriculture and outdoor activities, enriching the local ecosystems.
The longest daylight hours occur in June, peaking at 13 hours. This peak duration supports the vibrant summer season, allowing for extended time for crop growth and recreational pursuits. Following June, daylight levels normalize again to 12 hours from July through September, before tapering back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This return to shorter days indicates the onset of the drier season, emphasizing the circularity and balance of daylight throughout the year in Cortés. Such a predictable daylight cycle contributes to both the cultural rhythm and natural life cycles within the region.
Agua Azul, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in April and May. The wettest months are June and September, with rainfall exceeding 200 mm (7.9 in) during both periods, while the driest months are February and March. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 312 hours in May, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities. For more information, visit Agua Azul climate.
Omoa, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a mild 23°C (74°F) in January to a warm 28°C (82°F) in May, with maxima reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in the hotter months. The wettest months are October and November, receiving 279 mm (11.0 in) and 413 mm (16.3 in) of precipitation, respectively. Despite the rainfall, Omoa enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the dry season from February to April, where daylight can extend over 300 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Omoa climate.
San Francisco de Yojoa, Honduras experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 22°C (71°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in April and May, with maximums occasionally reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The wet season peaks between May and October, with June being the wettest month, accumulating about 212 mm (8.3 in) of rainfall. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in May (312 hours) and gradually decreasing towards the end of the year. For more detailed information, visit San Francisco de Yojoa climate.
The climate in Santa Cruz de Yojoa, Honduras, features warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 22°C (72°F) in December to 27°C (81°F) in April, peaking at 40°C (104°F) in April and May. The area experiences significant rainfall, particularly from May to October, with June averaging 212 mm (8.3 in) and September 172 mm (6.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, reaching its peak in May with 312 hours, ensuring plenty of bright days year-round. For more detailed information, visit Santa Cruz de Yojoa climate.
In conclusion, Cortés, Honduras, presents a rich tapestry of climatic and solar patterns, with temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours all contributing to a dynamic environment. The region experiences a tropical climate characterized by marked seasonal variations, from intense heat and abundant sunshine during the summer months to milder and wetter conditions in the autumn. This cycle, along with significant UV radiation levels, highlights the importance of sun safety and adaptive agricultural practices. Understanding these climatic nuances not only aids in environmental management and sustainable farming but also enhances the residents' ability to thrive in this vibrant and diverse setting.