Last updated: January 18, 2025
Tamaulipas, Mexico, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cfa (humid subtropical), Aw (tropical savanna), BSk (cold semi-arid), BSh (hot semi-arid), and Cwa (monsoonal). The region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -8°C (18°F) in February, while summer peaks soar to an astonishing 46°C (116°F) in April. The average temperature throughout the year hovers around a comfortable 24°C (75°F), illustrating the significant seasonal temperature variation and the unique climatic conditions that define Tamaulipas.
Tamaulipas, Mexico, showcases pronounced seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year. The winter months, January and February, bring notable chill, with minimum temperatures dipping as low as -8°C (18°F), while average temperatures gradually rise from 17°C (63°F) to 19°C (67°F). As spring approaches in March, temperatures increase significantly, peaking at 42°C (108°F), and by April, the heat intensifies, hitting record highs of 46°C (116°F). Moving into the summer months, temperatures stabilize around 28°C (83°F), maintaining high maximums of 43°C (110°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to decline, with average readings falling back to 24°C (76°F) in October, before experiencing a cooler shift in November and December as winter re-emerges. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the region's transition from chilly winters to scorching summers, punctuated by a comfortable average climate in spring and fall.
Guadalupe experiences a temperature range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) in February to a scorching 40°C (104°F) in April, while Emiliano Zapata records a minimum of 2°C (37°F) in December and peaks at 45°C (113°F) in April. Similarly, Santa Fe has a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in December and also reaches a maximum of 45°C (113°F) in April. For more details on the climate, you can check monthly temperatures in Guadalupe, monthly temperatures in Emiliano Zapata, and monthly temperatures in Santa Fe.
Tamaulipas experiences a fluctuating precipitation pattern throughout the year, with distinct wet and dry periods. The beginning of the year, from January to April, sees relatively low rainfall, with January recording just 24 mm (1.0 in) and February slightly lower at 18 mm (0.7 in). Rainfall begins to pick up in the spring, peaking at 32 mm (1.3 in) in March and April. However, this dry spell gives way to the summer months, where precipitation sharply increases, with May witnessing a substantial rise to 72 mm (2.8 in).
The height of the rainy season occurs in July and September, where Tamaulipas receives its highest monthly totals of 107 mm (4.2 in) and 120 mm (4.7 in) respectively. Overall, the rainy season is characterized by frequent rainfall days, peaking in September with 16 days of rain, while the winter months have significantly fewer rainy days, averaging 4 to 5 days. The transition from the dry winter months to the wetter summer highlights the region's tropical savanna characteristics, resulting in a vibrant and dynamic climate.
In Tamaulipas, Mexico, sunshine duration reflects a clear seasonal trend, showcasing an impressive increase from winter to summer. Starting the year, January offers 191 hours of sunshine, which gradually ascends as spring approaches, reaching 275 hours in March. This upward trajectory culminates in the summer months, where sunshine hours peak — June records 325 hours, followed closely by July and August with 332 hours and 336 hours, respectively. The abundant sunlight during this period not only enhances the vibrant landscape but also fosters outdoor activities and tourism.
As summer transitions into fall, sunlight hours begin to taper off, yet they remain substantial, with September still enjoying 294 hours. By October, sunlight hours decrease to 292 hours, reflecting the changing seasons. Notably, the months of November and December see a slight decline, both registering 260 hours, indicating a return to the shorter days typical of winter. This seasonal variation underscores the region’s climatic shifts, allowing residents and visitors alike to anticipate peak sunshine months and adjust their activities accordingly.
The UV Index in Tamaulipas, Mexico, presents significant seasonal fluctuations, reflecting the intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. Starting in the winter months, January sees a UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, indicating a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. As February arrives, the UV Index increases to 10, maintaining the very high category. However, it is in the spring and summer months that UV levels peak dramatically, with March and April reaching an extreme level of 13 and 14, respectively, resulting in a critical burn time of just 10 minutes—a stark reminder of the importance of sun protection during this time.
Throughout the summer, from May to August, the UV Index remains consistently high at 14, emphasizing the extreme solar exposure characteristic of this region. As the seasons transition into fall, the UV Index gradually decreases, with September and October recording 13 and 12, respectively, still classified as extreme. By November, it drops to 9, returning to very high, and finally settles at a UV Index of 7 in December, considered high with a burn time of 25 minutes. These variations serve as a vital reminder for residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions to safeguard against harmful UV radiation especially during the peak months.
UV Risk Categories
In Tamaulipas, Mexico, daylight duration exhibits distinct seasonal patterns that reflect the changing positions of the sun throughout the year. The year begins with about 10 hours of daylight in January, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February and reaching 12 hours by March. This trend continues into April, where daylight hours stabilize at 12 hours, before transitioning into the longer days of late spring and summer, culminating in 13 hours of daylight from May to July, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and exploration.
As summer transitions into fall, daylight duration begins to taper off, dropping back to 12 hours in August and September. By October, daylight decreases to 11 hours, and the cycle culminates in winter, reverting to 10 hours in both November and December. This cyclical rhythm of daylight hours not only influences the daily activities of residents but also signifies the changing seasons, highlighting the dynamic interplay between light and life in Tamaulipas.
The climate in Benito Juarez, Mexico, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January's minimum dipping to 0°C (33°F) and May reaching maximums of 37°C (100°F). Precipitation varies significantly, peaking at 120 mm (4.7 in) in September, while the sunniest months are typically from May to August, offering over 330 hours of sunshine. The region enjoys a dry season in late fall and winter, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, visit Benito Juarez climate.
Emiliano Zapata, Mexico, experiences a warm climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January starts cool, with temperatures ranging from a low of 4°C (39°F) to a high of 39°C (103°F), while the hottest months are April and May. Annual rainfall peaks from June to September, with June seeing 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation, and the region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer. Visitors can expect mild winters and hot summers, making it ideal for year-round activities. For more detailed information, visit Emiliano Zapata climate.
Ensenada, Mexico experiences a varied climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 17°C (63°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July and August, with peak temperatures reaching up to 40°C (105°F) in April. Precipitation is highest during the summer months, particularly in July and September, with approximately 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain recorded. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July and August with over 330 hours per month, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Ensenada climate.
Guadalupe, Mexico experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) in February to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in April. The region sees significant sunshine, peaking in August at 338 hours, and has the highest rainfall in July with 119 mm (4.7 in). The months of May and June offer a pleasant warmth, averaging around 27°C (81°F) and 29°C (84°F) respectively, while also witnessing increased precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Guadalupe climate.
Hidalgo, Mexico, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a low of -3°C (28°F) in February to a high of 37°C (100°F) in May. The region receives the most precipitation in May (143 mm) and April (99 mm), while drier months include August and November with only 19 mm and 22 mm of rain, respectively. Residents enjoy significant sunshine, particularly in May and August, which boast over 340 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Hidalgo climate.
Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico experiences a warm climate characterized by a broad temperature range throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in January to 24°C (76°F) from June to August, with maximums reaching up to 39°C (102°F) in May. Precipitation peaks in September with 73 mm, marking the wettest month, while December sees the lowest temperatures, averaging 15°C (60°F). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with the sunniest month being May, offering up to 336 hours. For more details, visit Lazaro Cardenas climate.
The climate in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico, is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in June and July, with an overall annual average around 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is highest in the summer months, peaking at 102 mm (4.0 in) in July, while January and December are the driest months. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer, reaching up to 338 hours in August. For more details, check out the Nuevo Progreso climate.
San Carlos, Mexico experiences a varied climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (37°F) in November to scorching highs of 41°C (107°F) in May. Rainfall peaks between May and September, particularly in September with 223 mm (8.8 in) of precipitation, while the sun shines brightly for up to 340 hours in August. This remarkable sunshine and temperature profile make San Carlos an appealing destination year-round. For more details, visit San Carlos climate.
Santa Fe, Mexico, experiences a warm climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January sees minimums around 5°C (41°F) and can peak at 38°C (100°F) in April, the hottest month. Rainfall is relatively low from January to March, but it increases significantly in June and July, averaging 138 mm (5.4 in) each month. Notably, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, with July being the sunniest month at 329 hours. For more details, visit Santa Fe climate.
Tampico, Mexico experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Temperatures range from a mild 8°C (46°F) in January to a peak of 38°C (101°F) in April, with averages between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) throughout the year. Rainfall is heaviest from June to September, peaking at 160 mm (6.3 in) in September, while the driest months are February and December with only 19 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, especially from May to August, with over 300 hours of sun in each of those months. For more detailed information, visit Tampico climate.
In conclusion, Tamaulipas, Mexico, presents a rich tapestry of climatic elements characterized by notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, UV Index, and daylight duration. From the sweltering summer months with peak temperatures and sunshine to the cooler winter, the region's climate significantly influences both the environment and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. As these climatic characteristics interweave throughout the year, they underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to the unique weather conditions, thus enabling residents and visitors to better appreciate the vibrant ecological and cultural experiences that Tamaulipas has to offer. Emphasizing sun safety and being attuned to seasonal changes can enhance outdoor enjoyment while promoting awareness of the region's natural beauty.