Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Gracias a Dios, Honduras, is characterized by a semi-arid or tropical monsoon classification (Köppen-Geiger: Am), showcasing considerable temperature variation throughout the year. January temperatures fluctuate between a cool minimum of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F). As the year progresses, the region experiences warmer conditions, peaking in May with maximum temperatures reaching an intense 36°C (97°F). This unique climatic profile not only influences local ecosystems but also shapes the agricultural practices and lifestyle of the communities inhabiting this vibrant region.
In Gracias a Dios, Honduras, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression characterized by a gradual increase in warmth as the year unfolds. Starting in January with cool temperatures, including a minimum of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F), the months transition towards noticeably warmer conditions. By April, temperatures peak with maximums reaching 36°C (96°F), coinciding with the onset of the warmer season. This warmth is sustained into May, where maximums hit 36°C (97°F) before gradually tapering off during the summer months, with July and August maintaining averages around 27°C (82°F). Moving towards the end of the year, temperatures gradually decline, reaching a cool minimum of 19°C (66°F) in December. Overall, the climate exhibits a pattern of rising heat leading into the peak summer months, followed by a gentle cooling trend as the year concludes.
In Honduras, the climate varies across different regions, as seen in Brus Laguna, Iralaya, and Puerto Lempira. Brus Laguna experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (91°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Brus Laguna). Iralaya has slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) in January and reaching up to 30°C (87°F) in September (monthly temperatures in Iralaya). Meanwhile, Puerto Lempira sees minimums of 23°C (73°F) in February, peaking at 31°C (88°F) in October (monthly temperatures in Puerto Lempira).
Precipitation in Gracias a Dios, Honduras, exhibits a marked seasonal pattern, with wet and dry months influencing both the environment and local communities. The year begins with January receiving 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain over approximately 20 days, followed by a significant drop in February to 62 mm (2.4 in). As spring approaches, March sees a slight increase to 99 mm (3.9 in), but it is during the late spring and summer months that rainfall intensifies dramatically. May marks the onset of the wetter season, with rainfall soaring to 177 mm (6.9 in) over 24 days.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from June to October, highlighting the region's tropical climate. June records 217 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation, while July and August maintain similar levels at 209 mm (8.2 in) and 218 mm (8.6 in), respectively. October emerges as the wettest month of the year, with an impressive 311 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while November follows closely at 281 mm (11.0 in). The year concludes with a reduction in rainfall, as December sees 141 mm (5.6 in), but overall, the significant precipitation during the peak months underscores the essential role of rain in sustaining local ecosystems and agriculture.
In Gracias a Dios, Honduras, sunshine duration showcases a distinct seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from the early months of the year into the summer. Beginning in January with 244 hours of sunlight, the days gradually become longer and brighter, reaching a peak in March at 328 hours. This upward trend continues through April, which records 331 hours, and May, maintaining a robust 326 hours. The consistent exposure to sunlight during these months enhances the region's warmth and supports agricultural growth.
As the year progresses into the latter part of summer, sunshine hours begin to moderate slightly but remain substantial. June and July show a slight decline to 299 and 315 hours, respectively, while August and September maintain a steady 315 and 311 hours of sunshine, reflecting the region's tropical climate. However, as the year transitions into the fall and winter months, sunshine hours decrease further, with October averaging 279 hours, November at 277 hours, and December slightly recovering to 298 hours. This cyclical pattern illustrates how the amount of sunshine not only defines seasonal changes but also influences local lifestyles and agricultural practices throughout the year.
In Gracias a Dios, Honduras, the UV Index reveals a consistently high level of solar radiation throughout the year, warranting attention to sun safety. Starting in January, the UV Index records a value of 10, indicating a very high exposure risk with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress into late winter and early spring, the UV Index escalates sharply, reaching extremes of 13 to 14 from March to May, where a mere 10 minutes of unprotected exposure can result in significant skin damage. These months underscore the urgent need for protective measures, especially during outdoor activities.
The trend continues through the summer months, with the UV Index remaining at 13 for much of the season. Even as the year transitions into the fall, the index remains notably high, with October recording a value of 12. By November and December, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10 and 9, respectively, but these values still indicate very high exposure risk. This persistent elevation of the UV Index throughout the year serves as a critical reminder for residents and visitors alike to prioritize sun safety measures, including the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during the peak sun hours.
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In Gracias a Dios, Honduras, daylight duration showcases a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, primarily influenced by its tropical latitude. The year begins with consistent daylight of 11 hours in both January and February, providing a reliable balance of light and darkness. As March arrives, day lengths increase to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April and May, accommodating the transition into the warmer months. This steady accumulation of daylight enhances outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits, as residents benefit from the extended hours of sunlight.
The longest daylight is recorded in June, reaching 13 hours, marking the peak of the light season. However, as summer progresses into July and August, daylight duration reverts to 12 hours, preserving the balance between light and dark. By October, daylight begins to contract again to 11 hours, continuing this trend into November and December. The gradual fluctuations of daylight throughout the year reflect the region's tropical nature and fundamentally shape the daily routines and cultural practices of the local communities.
Auas, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in April and May, with consistent averages around 26-28°C (79-82°F). Precipitation peaks in October, with 314 mm (12.4 inches), contributing to the region's lush environment. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in March through May, with over 300 hours of sunlight monthly. For more details, visit Auas climate.
The climate in Auka, Honduras, is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 25°C (77°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in May. The region experiences its highest rainfall in October, with 291 mm (11.4 in), while the driest month is February, receiving only 53 mm (2.1 in). Sunshine is ample, peaking in March and April with approximately 331 hours per month. Overall, Auka has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. For more detailed information, visit Auka climate.
Barra Patuca, Honduras, experiences a warm tropical climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to around 27°C (81°F) from April to October, with maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F). The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in October and November, with precipitation levels reaching up to 334 mm (13.2 in). Sunny days are abundant, especially from March to May, where sunshine reaches over 330 hours. For more detailed information, visit Barra Patuca climate.
Brus Laguna, Honduras experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to around 27°C (81°F) from April to October, peaking at a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in several months. Precipitation varies considerably, with October and November being the wettest months, receiving over 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while February is the driest at about 70 mm (2.8 in). Despite the rainfall, the area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to May, averaging over 330 hours of sunshine monthly. For more information, visit Brus Laguna climate.
Iralaya, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 26°C (79°F) in winter months to 28°C (82°F) in summer. Notably, May through October sees significant rainfall, with October recording the highest precipitation at 349 mm (13.7 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in March and April, with over 330 hours of sunlight per month. This combination of temperature and precipitation creates a lush environment amidst its warm, humid conditions. For more detailed information, visit Iralaya climate.
Palkaka, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and pronounced rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) in the cooler months to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) during the warmer months. Rainfall peaks in October and November, averaging 316 mm (12.5 in) and 317 mm (12.5 in), respectively. Despite the heavy precipitation, Palkaka enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the drier months like February and March, which see over 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Palkaka climate.
Paptalaya, Honduras experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in April and May. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in October with 314 mm (12.4 in), while the driest month is February with 66 mm (2.6 in). Sunshine is abundant, peaking in May with 333 hours and maintaining a steady range throughout other months. This diverse weather pattern supports lush vegetation and a vibrant ecosystem. For more details, visit Paptalaya climate.
Puerto Lempira, Honduras, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) from June to September, with maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F) in April, August, and October. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly from June to November, with October and November seeing up to 317 mm (12.5 in) of precipitation. Despite the rainfall, sunshine hours remain high, especially in February and March, with over 300 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Puerto Lempira climate.
Tikiraya, Honduras experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 25°C (77°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in May and lows between 18°C (64°F) and 23°C (73°F). Rainfall is significant, peaking in October with 291 mm (11.4 in), while May also sees high precipitation at 184 mm (7.3 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the spring months, with March and April boasting over 330 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Tikiraya climate.
Waksma, Honduras, features a warm tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 24°C (76°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) from June to September. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in October, when precipitation peaks at 293 mm (11.6 in), contributing to the annual total of over 1,600 mm. Sunshine hours are abundant, with March and April enjoying the most, at 325 and 328 hours respectively. Despite the wet months, Waksma remains a bright and warm destination year-round, ideal for visitors seeking a lively climate. For more details, visit Waksma climate.
Wawina, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Monthly average temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) from June to October, with peaks reaching up to 36°C (96°F) in April and May. Precipitation is heaviest between June and October, with October recording an average of 293 mm (11.6 in). The area boasts considerable sunshine hours, particularly from March to May, with peaks around 333 hours in May. For more detailed climate information, visit Wawina climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental characteristics of Gracias a Dios, Honduras, reveal a complex interplay of temperature, precipitation, UV index, and daylight duration that significantly influence the region's ecology and daily life. With generally high temperatures and a distinct wet season, the area supports diverse agricultural activities, while the high UV index demands awareness of sun safety among residents. Furthermore, the stability in daylight duration complements the tropical climate, facilitating various outdoor pursuits and shaping local traditions. As the region continues to adapt to its climatic patterns, understanding these elements remains essential for fostering sustainable practices and enhancing the well-being of its communities.