Last updated: January 18, 2025
Colón, Panama, exhibits a tropical climate characterized by two prominent Köppen-Geiger classes: Aw (Tropical Savanna) and Am (Tropical Monsoon). Throughout the year, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in February to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) typically recorded in May. The average temperature hovers around a balmy 26°C (79°F), providing a warm and inviting environment that supports its lush biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems.
Colón, Panama, experiences a consistent tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures exhibiting only slight variations across the months. January sees minimal temperatures around 19°C (67°F) and peaks at 31°C (88°F), while February brings a brief dip to a low of 18°C (65°F) and a high of 32°C (91°F). As the year progresses into the warmer months of April and May, temperatures rise slightly, consistently reaching maximums of 33°C (92°F). This warmth continues into the rainy season, from June to November, where the minimum temperature stabilizes around 21°C (70°F) to 22°C (71°F), while maximum temperatures remain relatively steady, fluctuating between 32°C (90°F) and 33°C (91°F). Overall, the average monthly temperature lingers at a comfortable 26°C (79°F), ensuring that Colón maintains its warm tropical charm year-round.
Colon, Portobelo, and Panama City exhibit similar temperature ranges throughout the year, with minimum temperatures consistently around 23°C (73°F) in January. In Colon, temperatures peak at 32°C (90°F) in October, while Panama City shares the same maximum. Portobelo, slightly cooler, reaches a maximum of 31°C (87°F) in October. For detailed monthly temperatures, you can explore Colon's data here, Portobelo's here, and Panama City's here.
Colón, Panama, is characterized by a distinct precipitation pattern, with rainfall significantly increasing as the year progresses. Starting in January, the city receives around 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain over about 18 days, which mark the onset of its wet season. By April, precipitation ramps up to 134 mm (5.3 in) as the rainy season intensifies, culminating in May with a staggering 304 mm (12.0 in). This month marks the transition into peak rainfall, with extensive showers occurring on an average of 30 days, as the region gears up for tropical downpours.
The months of June through October constitute the heaviest rainfall period, where the precipitation often exceeds 300 mm each month. July stands out with the highest recorded rainfall of 370 mm (14.6 in), demonstrating Colón's lush environment nurtured by consistent moisture. As the rainy season begins to wane, November and December still deliver substantial precipitation, at 292 mm (11.5 in) and 173 mm (6.8 in) respectively, ensuring that the region continues to flourish. Overall, the consistent rainfall throughout the year underscores the tropical climate that sustains Colón’s rich ecosystems.
Colón, Panama, experiences notable variations in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a consistent upward trend observed from the winter months into the summer. January begins with a modest 256 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 301 hours in February and reaching a robust 339 hours in March. This peak in sunshine during March sets the stage for slightly diminished hours in April at 318 hours, before a gradual decline begins in May, coinciding with the onset of the rainy season. As the months progress into June, July, and August, sunshine remains relatively stable at 259 hours, highlighting a period where cloud cover becomes more pronounced due to increased precipitation.
As the year transitions into the latter months, Colón sees a recovery in sunshine duration. September experiences a modest uptick with 273 hours, leading to October and November at 286 and 280 hours, respectively. December marks a notable return to sunnier conditions, with 312 hours of sunshine, providing a signal that the rainy season is ebbing away. Overall, the sunshine pattern in Colón underscores the interplay between rainfall and sunlight, where the dry months boast longer daylight hours, while the rainy season results in shorter exposure to direct sunlight, creating a dynamic coastal climate that supports its lush surroundings.
Colón, Panama, faces consistently high UV Index levels throughout the year, indicating an environment where sun protection is crucial. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 12, categorizing it as extreme, and this intensity escalates to a peak of 15 in April. This pattern of extreme UV exposure continues unabated, with burn times remaining a mere 10 minutes during these months, reflecting the strong solar radiation typical of the tropical climate. Even as the rainy season approaches, the UV Index remains high; for instance, in June through September, it fluctuates between 13 and 14, reiterating the necessity for caution when outdoors.
As the year progresses into the final months, a slight easing of UV intensity is noted, with November showing a UV Index of 12 and December dipping to 10, categorized as very high but with an extended burn time of 15 minutes. Despite this reduction, the levels remain concerning for unprotected skin. This sustained high exposure reveals the importance of protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and clothing, particularly from January to April, when solar radiation peaks. Overall, understanding the UV Index trends is vital for residents and visitors alike, ensuring safe enjoyment of Colón's sunny, tropical environment.
UV Risk Categories
In Colón, Panama, daylight duration remains notably consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial position. January and February each provide approximately 11 hours of daylight, transitioning into a slight increase as March arrives, offering 12 hours. During the months of April through September, daylight duration stabilizes at a steady 12 hours. This consistent day length contributes to the tropical ambience, where residents enjoy ample sunlight almost year-round.
As the year progresses into the latter months, daylight duration returns to 11 hours in October and remains at that level through December. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the minimal variation in sunlight exposure characteristic of equatorial climates. While the total hours of daylight may slightly fluctuate, Colón's relatively consistent daylight duration supports a vibrant ecosystem, allowing for a thriving natural environment and active outdoor lifestyles year-round.
Colon, Panama experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 27°C (81°F), with maxima peaking around 32°C (90°F) in the wet season from May to October. Precipitation is highest during these months, particularly in July (384 mm) and June (307 mm), while February tends to be the driest month at 42 mm. Despite the rainfall, Colon enjoys ample sunshine, especially in March with 341 hours. For more detailed information, visit Colon climate.
Gatun, Panama experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to a peak of 33°C (91°F) in April. Rainfall varies significantly, with May and June being the wettest months, receiving over 341 mm (13.4 in) and 363 mm (14.3 in) respectively. Despite the heavy rains, Gatun enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in March with 340 hours. For more detailed information, visit Gatun climate.
Panama City, Panama, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average monthly highs ranging from 30°C (87°F) in January and December to 32°C (90°F) in October. Rainfall peaks from May to August, with July being the wettest month at 384 mm (15.1 in), while February is the driest with only 42 mm (1.7 in). Sunlight is abundant, especially in March, which boasts 341 hours of sunshine. Overall, the city offers a humid and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy tropical weather. For more details, visit Panama City climate.
Playa Chiquita, Panama, experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C (78°F) and 26°C (79°F) monthly. Highs reach up to 31°C (87°F) from April to October, while lows typically hover around 22°C (72°F) to 23°C (73°F). The rainy season is most pronounced from April to October, with precipitation peaking in August at 284 mm (11.2 in). Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, especially in February and March, boasting over 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Playa Chiquita climate.
Portobelo, Panama, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) year-round, with highs reaching 31°C (87°F) in October. The wettest months are June and July, receiving over 300 mm (11.8 in) of rain, while February is the driest month with about 40 mm (1.6 in). Sunshine varies throughout the year, peaking in March with 337 hours. For more detailed information, visit Portobelo climate.
In conclusion, Colón, Panama, exemplifies a dynamic tropical climate characterized by consistent warmth, significant rainfall, and high UV radiation throughout the year. With temperatures averaging around 26°C (79°F) and a notable increase in precipitation during the rainy season, the city fosters a lush environment rich in biodiversity. Daylight duration remains fairly stable, typically hovering around 12 hours, reinforcing the region's tropical allure. However, the consistently high UV Index underscores the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for effectively planning outdoor activities and appreciating the ecological richness of Colón, making it a unique and vibrant destination year-round.