Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Af, denoting a tropical rainforest climate characterized by abundant precipitation and lush vegetation. Throughout the year, temperatures vary minimally, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in February, an average temperature hovering around 24°C (75°F), and peaking at a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in April. This warm and humid environment fosters a vibrant ecosystem, making Ngöbe-Buglé a crucial region for biodiversity and sustainable development.
In Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, temperature patterns exhibit a consistent warmth throughout the year, characterized by mild variations across the seasons. Monthly minimum temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in February to a warm 18°C (64°F) from August to September, while average temperatures remain stable at 24°C (75°F). Maximum temperatures peak notably in April at 36°C (98°F), followed closely by February and May, which reach highs of 35°C (95°F). This slight seasonal fluctuation indicates a warm tropical climate, with the most noticeable temperature changes occurring in the early months of the year, while the latter months maintain a more uniform temperature profile, showcasing the region's mildness despite occasional peaks in heat.
Santa Catalina experiences a mild tropical climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in October, making it a pleasant destination year-round (monthly temperatures in Santa Catalina). In contrast, Canoa has a broader temperature variation, featuring a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in February and peaking at 29°C (85°F) in June, presenting a different appeal for visitors (monthly temperatures in Canoa).
Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, experiences a pronounced wet season, with significant variability in precipitation throughout the year. January sets the tone with 126 mm (4.9 in) of rainfall over about 15 days; however, by February, the precipitation decreases to 85 mm (3.3 in). The months of April through July mark the apex of the rainy season, with April witnessing a dramatic surge in rainfall to 214 mm (8.4 in), which subsequently peaks in May at an impressive 415 mm (16.3 in), showcasing the region's capacity for intense downpours.
Following the peak in May, precipitation remains abundant but slightly decreases to 363 mm (14.3 in) in June and fluctuates between 357 mm (14.1 in) and 392 mm (15.4 in) from July through September. The rainy season typically extends into October with 462 mm (18.2 in), followed closely by November at 442 mm (17.4 in). The rainfall begins to taper off in December, bringing 205 mm (8.1 in) over 23 days, thus closing the year on a less intense note while still maintaining a significant amount of moisture that sustains the lush tropical environment characteristic of the region.
In Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, sunshine duration exhibits distinct seasonal trends, reflecting a clear pattern as the year progresses. The region enjoys a steady increase in sunshine hours from January through March. Notably, March emerges as the sunniest month, basking in 338 hours of sunlight, which aligns with the dry season, enabling extensive outdoor activities. Following this peak, sunshine hours begin to dip as the rainy season approaches, with April registering 308 hours and a more significant decline in May, which sees only 249 hours of sunshine amidst increasing rainfall.
The summer months, from June to August, experience the least sunshine, with July recording just 230 hours—the lowest point of the year. Despite the decrease, the number of sunshine hours remains fairly consistent in the subsequent months, fluctuating slightly around 230–251 hours as the rainy season continues. By December, sunlight duration recovers to 307 hours, signaling the return to a sunnier and more stable climate as the year concludes. This seasonal rhythm of sunshine in Ngöbe-Buglé highlights the interplay between rainfall and clear skies, crucial for understanding the region's agriculture and ecology.
The UV Index in Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, indicates a consistently high level of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, with values frequently categorized as extreme. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 12, climbing to an intense 15 by March and maintaining this peak into May. This sustained high level signals that exposure for even short durations can lead to skin damage, with a recommended burn time of just 10 minutes across all months. The intensity of UV radiation underscores the importance of sun protection strategies for residents and visitors alike, particularly during the dry season.
As the calendar progresses into the latter half of the year, the UV Index remains substantially elevated, with June through October consistently reporting values around 14. This indicates a slightly lower, yet still extreme, exposure level during the rainy season, with the burn time remaining critically short at 10 minutes. By November, the Index slightly dips to 12 and further decreases to 11 in December as the year ends. This persistence of high UV levels throughout most of the year emphasizes the necessity for protective measures against sun exposure, as skin can be vulnerable to damage even on cloudy or rainy days.
UV Risk Categories
In Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, daylight duration exhibits a remarkable consistency throughout the year, reflecting the region's near-equatorial position. During the first two months, January and February, daylight lasts approximately 11 hours each day, providing a relatively stable amount of sunlight as the year begins. As the transition into spring occurs, daylight gradually extends to 12 hours from March through August, promoting longer periods of light that coincide with the dry season and facilitating increased outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the year progresses into the second half, the daylight duration begins to taper off again, returning to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This slight reduction indicates a shift towards shorter days as the rainy season approaches its peak. Despite the variations in daylight duration, the overall stability within these hour ranges illustrates the tropical climate of Ngöbe-Buglé, ensuring that residents experience a relatively predictable cycle of light throughout the seasons, which is vital for planning daily life and agricultural cycles in the region.
Canoa, Panama experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) in winter months to slightly higher during the summer, with maximum highs reaching 29°C (85°F) in June. The wettest months are typically from May to October, with rainfall peaking at 439 mm (17.3 in) in May and remaining high through November. Despite the heavy precipitation, Canoa enjoys substantial sunshine, especially in February and March with over 300 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Canoa climate.
Santa Catalina, Panama, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 23°C (74°F) in the cooler months to 25°C (77°F) in the warmer months. Precipitation is significant, particularly from October to December, with December receiving the highest rainfall at 414 mm (16.3 in). The region experiences varying sunshine hours, peaking in March with 335 hours and dipping in July and August with 241 hours. This blend of warmth and rainfall makes Santa Catalina a lush and inviting destination for visitors. For more detailed information, visit the Santa Catalina climate.
In summary, Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, is characterized by its distinct climatic features, including consistently high temperatures, significant rainfall, and ample sunlight throughout the year. The region's tropical rainforest climate, classified as Af under the Köppen-Geiger system, fosters a unique biodiversity, supported by the pronounced wet and dry seasons. Moreover, residents experience an extreme UV Index, particularly during the sunniest months, necessitating vigilant sun protection measures. The stability of daylight duration, averaging 11 to 12 hours, further enhances the predictability of the environment, making it essential for both daily living and agricultural activities. Together, these climatic attributes highlight the importance of adaptive strategies for community health, agriculture, and ecological preservation in this vibrant region.