Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Sonora, Mexico, is characterized by a diverse range of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Csb, BSh, Csa, BWh, and BSk. This variation reflects a complex interplay of temperature zones, where winters can see frigid lows plunging to -12°C (10°F) in February, while summers can reach extreme highs of 48°C (119°F) in September. The annual temperature averages a comfortable 24°C (75°F), illustrating Sonora's climatic variability from cool winters to scorching summers, making it a region of significant meteorological interest.
Temperature patterns in Sonora, Mexico, exhibit a striking seasonal variability, with significant fluctuations between winter and summer months. The winter months of January and February feature chilling minimum temperatures dropping as low as -12°C (10°F), gradually warming to averages around 16°C (62°F) by February. As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures rise markedly, with averages reaching 23°C (73°F) and maximums hitting 42°C (109°F). The onset of summer in May brings further warmth, with average temperatures peaking at 26°C (79°F) and maximums soaring to an astonishing 44°C (112°F) in the same month. The heat intensifies in June and July, where maximum temperatures consistently approach 48°C (119°F), rendering this period the hottest in the region. As September ushers in milder conditions, temperatures slightly decrease but can still reach 48°C (119°F). Finally, autumn introduces a gradual cooling, with average temperatures declining to 21°C (70°F) by November, culminating in the cooler winter months that follow.
Atotonilco experiences a minimum temperature of 8°C (46°F) in February and can reach a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in September, as detailed monthly temperatures in Atotonilco. Similarly, Puerto Penasco has a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January and peaks at 37°C (99°F) in August, outlined in the monthly temperatures in Puerto Penasco. In contrast, San Carlos records a lower minimum of 7°C (45°F) in January but can soar to a maximum of 42°C (107°F) in September, as noted in the monthly temperatures in San Carlos.
Precipitation in Sonora, Mexico, reflects a pronounced seasonal pattern, with the winter months generally being the driest. January and February register an average of 19 mm (0.7 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in) of rainfall, respectively, corresponding to minimal precipitation days—often one or two throughout the month. As the dry spring leads into early summer, March and April experience a significant drop in rainfall, with March receiving only 15 mm (0.6 in) and April becoming almost entirely dry with just 1 mm (0.0 in) reported.
However, the arrival of the summer monsoon dramatically shifts the precipitation landscape, particularly from July through September, when Sonora sees its peak rainfall. During this period, monthly averages soar, with July accumulating 66 mm (2.6 in), August reaching 70 mm (2.8 in), and September maintaining 66 mm (2.6 in). This spike in precipitation coincides with increased storm activity, resulting in approximately ten rain days in both July and August. As autumn approaches in October and November, rainfall diminishes but still contributes to the yearly totals with 19 mm (0.8 in) and 25 mm (1.0 in), respectively, before tapering off once again in December.
In Sonora, Mexico, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with a noticeable increase from winter through summer. The year begins with January receiving a relatively modest 215 hours of sunshine, but as February arrives, this figure climbs to 250 hours. By the time March rolls around, sunseekers can enjoy 297 hours, and this upward trend accelerates significantly in April, which boasts 329 hours. May marks a pivotal month, with sunshine peaking at 368 hours, showcasing the region's transition into its sun-drenched summer.
As summer progresses, sunshine hours remain robust, with 361 hours in June, followed closely by 340 hours in July and 328 hours in August. This extended period of abundant sunlight not only contributes to the intense heat but also allows for extended outdoor activities. However, as the seasons shift into autumn, a gradual decline is observed, with September and October receiving 303 hours and 302 hours, respectively. By November and December, sunlight diminishes further, dropping to 263 hours and 258 hours, making these months the least sunny of the year. Overall, the data suggest that Sonora is a haven for sunshine lovers, particularly from late spring to early summer, when the sun shines brightest and longest.
The UV Index in Sonora, Mexico, displays notable fluctuations throughout the year, reflecting the region's strong sun exposure, particularly from late winter to summer. Beginning in January, the UV Index stands at 6, categorizing the exposure as high and allowing for up to 25 minutes of safe sun exposure without protection. As winter transitions into spring, February and March see a significant rise in the UV Index to 9 and 10, respectively, indicating very high levels of UV radiation. This pattern culminates in April, where the Index peaks at 13, classifying the exposure as extreme and reducing safe burn time to just 10 minutes, a trend that continues through May, June, July, and August.
In the latter months of the year, the UV Index begins to taper off slightly, yet remains substantial. September maintains a high reading of 12, while October sees a drop to 10, reflective of the waning summer sun. By November and December, the UV Index falls back to 7 and 6, respectively, categorized again as high and allowing for 25 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Overall, the data underscores the need for protective measures against UV radiation, especially during the spring and summer months when exposure is most extreme, highlighting the importance of sun safety in Sonora’s vibrant climate.
UV Risk Categories
In Sonora, Mexico, daylight duration exhibits a consistent seasonal pattern, transitioning from shorter days in winter to longer hours during the summer months. January begins the year with approximately 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases as spring approaches. By February, daylight extends to 11 hours, and in March, it reaches 12 hours. This pattern stabilizes in April, maintaining an average of 12 hours before the days continue to lengthen further, peaking at 13 hours during May and persisting through the summer months of June, July, and August.
As autumn descends, daylight duration begins to decrease, signaling the return of shorter days. In September, the daylight average drops back to 12 hours, and by October, it settles at 11 hours. November and December close the year with a return to 10 hours of daylight. This cyclical variation in daylight not only influences daily activities and agricultural practices within the region but also serves as a reminder of the changing seasons in Sonora, enhancing the appreciation for its diverse and dynamic climate.
Alamos, Mexico experiences a warm desert climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January marks the cool start of the year, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 34°C (93°F) in the summer months. Rainfall is minimal from April to May, while the region sees heavy precipitation in July and August, totaling up to 152 mm (6.0 in). The area is generally sunny, with May boasting the highest sunshine duration of 366 hours. For more details, visit Alamos climate.
Atotonilco, Mexico, experiences a warm climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) in January to a peak of 39°C (102°F) in September, with average monthly highs consistently above 20°C (68°F) from March onward. Rainfall is scarce during the early months but increases significantly from June to September, with September receiving the highest precipitation at 103 mm (4.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly between April and May, reaching up to 364 hours in May. For more details on the weather patterns, visit Atotonilco climate.
Bahia de Kino, Mexico, enjoys a warm climate with a significant temperature range throughout the year. Average temperatures vary from a mild 17°C (62°F) in January to a hot 32°C (90°F) in July and August, with minimal rainfall primarily between September and October. The area experiences plentiful sunshine, peaking in May with 368 hours, ensuring plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, you can explore the Bahia de Kino climate.
El Recodo, Mexico experiences a warm climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct seasonal variations. The hottest months are typically May through September, with average highs reaching up to 43°C (110°F), while January is the coolest month, averaging 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is minimal from January to May, with notable increases during the rainy season from June to September, peaking in August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in May, with an impressive 365 hours recorded. For more detailed information, visit El Recodo climate.
Guadalupe, Mexico features a climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant sunshine, with averages ranging from 14°C (57°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in June. The hottest months are typically May and June, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 44°C (112°F). Precipitation is minimal from April to May but increases sharply during the summer, particularly in July with 109 mm (4.3 in). With over 370 hours of sunshine in May, Guadalupe enjoys a bright and sunny climate throughout the year. For more details, visit Guadalupe climate.
Heroica Guaymas, Mexico experiences a warm desert climate with mild winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 17°C (64°F), rising to an average of 32°C (90°F) in July. Precipitation is minimal, particularly from April to May, and September tends to be the wettest month with 53 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 366 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Heroica Guaymas climate.
La Union, Mexico, features a warm climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in July and August. The area experiences minimal rainfall between January and April, with precipitation increasing significantly in the latter half of the year, peaking at 77 mm (3.0 in) in September. Sunshine is abundant, especially in May, which boasts the highest hours at 364. Despite the summer heat, the region maintains a pleasant climate, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more details, visit La Union climate.
The climate in Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico, varies significantly throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from -12°C (10°F) in February to a high of 40°C (105°F) in June and July. The region experiences the most precipitation during the summer months, particularly in July, receiving around 125 mm (4.9 in). Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 373 hours in May, ensuring a pleasant climate overall. For more detailed information on temperatures and weather patterns, visit Miguel Hidalgo climate.
The climate in Nogales, Mexico, features a significant temperature range throughout the year, with average temperatures peaking at 27°C (82°F) in June and July, while winter months can see lows of -10°C (14°F) in February. Precipitation is relatively low, with frequent rain in July (119 mm) and August (91 mm), while other months remain dry. Sunshine is abundant, with over 300 hours of sun during the spring and summer months, particularly in May (373 hours). For more detailed information on the climate, visit Nogales climate.
Ojo de Agua, Mexico experiences a climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal variations in precipitation. January and February see minimal temperatures drop to around -1°C (30°F), while summer months like June, July, and August can peak up to 44°C (111°F). Rainfall is generally low from January to April, but significant increases occur during July and August, with approximately 106 mm (4.2 in) and 93 mm (3.6 in) respectively. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in May with 371 hours. For more detailed information, visit Ojo de Agua climate.
Providencia, Mexico experiences a diverse climate characterized by a significant temperature range throughout the year. Winter months see minimum temperatures drop to around 2°C (36°F), gradually rising to highs of 44°C (112°F) during the warm summer months of June and July. The rainy season occurs from July to September, where precipitation can peak at 76 mm (3.0 in) in September, while other months are relatively dry. Despite the rainfall, the area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in May with up to 366 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Providencia climate.
Puerto Penasco, Mexico, enjoys a warm desert climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in August, with average highs typically in the 20s to low 30s°C. The region experiences minimal rainfall, particularly from April to June when precipitation can be negligible. Sunshine is abundant, especially during the summer months, with June averaging 373 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Puerto Penasco climate.
San Carlos, Mexico, boasts a warm desert climate characterized by rising temperatures from January through September, peaking in July with maximums around 39°C (103°F). Precipitation is minimal, concentrated mainly in September, which sees the highest rainfall at 53 mm (2.1 in). Notably, sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with May enjoying the most hours at 366. Despite occasional rains, the region experiences a predominantly dry season, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit San Carlos climate.
San Fernando de Guaymas, Mexico experiences a warm climate with high temperatures peaking in the summer months, where averages reach around 32°C (91°F) in July and August. Winters are mild, with January lows at 6°C (43°F) and average highs around 30°C (87°F). The region sees minimal rainfall, particularly from April to May, while the months of August and September can bring higher precipitation, averaging 28 mm (1.1 in) and 57 mm (2.3 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant year-round, with the sunniest months being May and April, boasting over 360 hours of sunshine. For a detailed look at the climate, visit San Fernando de Guaymas climate.
Santa Maria de Guaymas, Mexico enjoys a warm desert climate, with temperatures ranging from a low of 2°C (37°F) in December to highs of 45°C (113°F) in July and September. Precipitation is minimal, with the driest months being April and May, receiving no rainfall, while August and September see the highest levels at 40 mm (1.6 in) and 62 mm (2.4 in) respectively. The region benefits from abundant sunshine, with May boasting the most hours at 368. For more detailed information, visit Santa Maria de Guaymas climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Sonora, Mexico, reveals a rich tapestry of seasonal variations that influence temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. With sweltering summers characterized by extended daylight and peak UV exposure, alongside milder winters that present shorter daylight hours and reduced UV intensity, Sonora offers both challenges and opportunities for its residents and visitors. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for effective sun protection, agricultural planning, and fostering outdoor activities throughout the year. Ultimately, the unique climatic features of Sonora not only shape the local environment but also significantly enhance the overall experience of life in this vibrant region.