Colima Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Colima, Mexico exhibits a diverse climate characterized primarily by its Köppen-Geiger classifications: Aw, Csa, and Cwa. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F) in January, providing a cool respite during the cooler months, while the average annual temperature rests at a comfortable 24°C (76°F). The peak of summer sees temperatures soaring to maximums of 38°C (100°F) in July, highlighting the pronounced seasonal variation and underlining Colima's status as a vibrant locale with significant climatic diversity.

Colima temperature by month

In Colima, Mexico, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression throughout the year. The cooler months of January through March witness minimum temperatures gradually rising from 4°C (40°F) to 8°C (48°F), with average highs reaching around 24°C (75°F). As spring transitions into summer, April and May bring slightly warmer conditions, characterized by temperatures peaking at 36°C (97°F). June and July introduce the region's warmest climatic phase, where average temperatures settle at 26°C (79°F), complemented by maximums climbing to 38°C (100°F) in July. Following this peak, August and September see a slight cooling trend, with temperatures returning to the mid-30s. The year then transitions back to cooler conditions in late fall, with November and December averaging around 24°C (76°F) and 23°C (74°F), marking a return to more temperate weather after the hot summer months.

Monthly Temperatures in Colima, Mexico

The chart illustrates Colima's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec737375757779797878787673
Data source: Colima temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Colima experiences a temperature range with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) in January and a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Colima. Similarly, Chiapa shares the same minimum of 9°C (48°F) in January and reaches up to 36°C (97°F) in April, as shown in the monthly temperatures in Chiapa. In contrast, Manzanillo has a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in March to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in June, according to the monthly temperatures in Manzanillo.

Precipitation Patterns in Colima

Colima, Mexico experiences a variable precipitation pattern throughout the year, showcasing a classic dry-wet seasonal cycle. The year begins with minimal rainfall during January and February, recording 9 mm (0.4 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in) respectively, while March sees a stark drop to just 2 mm (0.1 in). By April, the region becomes exceptionally dry with no recorded precipitation, before experiencing a slight uptick in May with 11 mm (0.4 in), signaling the onset of the rainy season.

The true shift into the wet season occurs in June, where precipitation skyrockets to 220 mm (8.7 in), followed by July and August, which are the peak months with 204 mm (8.0 in) and a staggering 371 mm (14.6 in) respectively. This intense rainfall continues into September with 311 mm (12.2 in). The precipitation begins to taper off in October at 212 mm (8.3 in), leading to a further decline in November and December, where rainfall amounts reduce significantly to 39 mm (1.5 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in), respectively. The distribution of rainy days corresponds with this trend, as the summer months account for the majority of the precipitation days, topping 26 days in both August and September.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Colima, Mexico

The average monthly precipitation in Colima, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91020112202043713112123910
Data source: Colima precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Colima

In Colima, Mexico, sunshine duration exhibits a noticeable seasonal pattern that reflects the transition from winter to summer. Beginning in January with 234 hours of sunshine, there is a consistent increase each month, culminating in May, which boasts an impressive 337 hours of bright sunlight. The progression is particularly striking from March to May, where the hours of sunshine rise sharply, highlighting this period as the sunniest time of the year. Such abundant sunlight not only enhances the region's vibrant landscape but also contributes positively to agricultural activities, making it a vital period for local farmers.

As summer approaches, the sunshine hours begin to slightly taper off, with June registering 280 hours and July only marginally increasing to 282 hours. This diminishment continues through August and September, where sunshine drops to 262 hours and 247 hours, respectively. The trend of decreasing sunlight suggests that the peak of the summer season is accompanied by increased cloud cover and precipitation. Nevertheless, sunshine hours rebound in October and November, with 272 hours and 278 hours respectively, before closing the year with a robust 289 hours in December. Overall, the sunshine data underscores the dynamic interplay between sunlight and seasonal changes in Colima, making it a region of considerable climatic interest.

Monthly Sunshine in Colima, Mexico

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Colima receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234h269h321h324h337h280h282h262h247h272h278h289h
Data source: Colima sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Colima UV Index Trends

In Colima, Mexico, the UV Index presents a clear seasonal trend that underscores the region's exposure to intense solar radiation throughout the year. The year starts with a UV Index of 9 in January, categorized as "very high," requiring only 15 minutes of sunlight exposure for potential skin burn. However, as February rolls in, the index rapidly escalates to 11, marking the onset of the "extreme" category, which persists consistently from March through May, where it peaks at 14. This alarming level of UV radiation emphasizes the need for protective measures against sun exposure, particularly during the spring months, when the burn time reduces dramatically to a mere 10 minutes.

During the summer months, the UV Index reaches its zenith in June with a significant 15, followed by slightly lower but still critical levels of 13 in July and August. The extreme category continues through September, while October shows a reduction to 12. As the year progresses toward the end, November witnesses a drop to 10, and December further declines to 8, both returning to the "very high" exposure category with longer burn times. This data elucidates the importance of sun safety in Colima, particularly during the peak months of spring and summer, when awareness and precautions against UV radiation are paramount to prevent skin damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Colima, Mexico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Colima. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9111414141513131412108
Data source: Colima UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Colima

In Colima, Mexico, daylight duration exhibits a consistent seasonal pattern that reflects the subtropical climate of the region. The year begins with a steady 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, which provides a balanced amount of light for daily activities. As spring approaches, March and April see a gradual increase to 12 hours, marking the transition into longer days that come with warmer temperatures. This trend continues through May and June, where daylight reaches its peak at 13 hours. The extended daylight during these months fosters optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural endeavors.

However, as summer wanes and autumn sets in, daylight duration begins to decrease. In July and August, Colima maintains 13 hours of daylight, but by September, it reverts to 12 hours. This decrease is accompanied by the gradual reduction observed in October and November, where daylight drops to 11 hours once again. The year concludes with 10 hours of daylight in December, reflecting the seasonal cycle characteristic of many regions. Overall, this variation in daylight duration signifies Colima's climatic rhythm, emphasizing both the invigorating long days of summer and the shorter, yet still pleasant, days of winter.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Colima, Mexico

This chart shows the total daylight hours Colima receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec665h690h722h754h781h794h787h763h732h699h672h658h
Data source: Colima daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Colima's Popular Destinations

The climate in Chiapa, Mexico, features warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 22°C (72°F) in January to 26°C (78°F) in the summer months of May and June. Rainfall significantly increases during the summer, particularly in August, which receives an average of 344 mm (13.6 in) of precipitation. Meanwhile, sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in March with 320 hours, ideal for outdoor activities. Overall, Chiapa experiences a tropical climate with a distinct wet season. For more detailed information, visit Chiapa climate.

Colima, Mexico, experiences a warm climate with distinct seasonal variations. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) in January to a peak of 36°C (97°F) in April, with mild averages around 24°C (75°F) in most months. The rainy season is primarily from June to September, notable for heavy precipitation, peaking at 344 mm (13.6 in) in August. Despite the rains, sunshine is abundant, especially in spring and early summer, with up to 334 hours of sunlight in May. For more detailed climate information, visit Colima climate.

Manzanillo, Mexico, enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in March to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) from June to November. The dry season spans from December to April, experiencing minimal rainfall, while the wet season from May to October sees significant precipitation, peaking in August with 307 mm (12.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, with the sunniest months being May and April, each boasting over 340 hours of sunshine. This combination of warmth, varied rainfall, and sunlight makes Manzanillo an ideal destination for beach lovers. For more detailed information, visit Manzanillo climate.

The climate in Venustiano Carranza, Mexico, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 24°C (76°F) in January to 28°C (83°F) in July and August. Precipitation mainly occurs from June to September, with August being the wettest month, receiving 356 mm (14.0 in) of rain. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the spring and early summer, with the highest hours recorded in May. Overall, this region experiences a pronounced dry season followed by a rainy season, which is essential for local agriculture. For more details, visit Venustiano Carranza climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Colima, Mexico, presents a dynamic climate characterized by distinct patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. The region experiences warm summers with significant rainfall, contributing to a vibrant landscape while also presenting challenges related to UV exposure during peak months. The steady increase in daylight from winter to summer enhances outdoor activities and agricultural prospects. As Colima progresses through its seasonal cycles, understanding these climatic factors becomes essential for residents and visitors alike, promoting awareness and preparedness for the varying environmental conditions throughout the year. This knowledge not only enriches the experience of living in or visiting Colima but also supports sustainable practices in this beautiful tropical region.

Discover the Climate of Colima's Places

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