Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ica, Peru, is characterized by a BWh and BWk Köppen-Geiger classification, marking it as a region of arid and semi-arid climates. Temperature variations are notable, with minimums reaching as low as -2°C (28°F) in June, while average yearly temperatures hover around 20°C (67°F). The warmest month is March, where maximum temperatures can soar to 33°C (92°F), illustrating the significant thermal range experienced throughout the year. This climate profile underscores Ica's distinctive weather patterns and their implications for agriculture and habitability.
Ica, Peru, experiences distinct seasonal temperature trends throughout the year. The hottest months, from January to March, exhibit stable minimums of 4°C (40°F) and consistent averages of 22°C (71°F), while maximums peak at 33°C (92°F), creating a warm, arid climate. As the seasons transition into the cooler months of April and May, temperatures begin to drop, with minimums reaching 2°C (36°F) and averages declining to 19°C (67°F). June marks the chilliest period, where temperatures can dip to -2°C (28°F), resulting in a notable decrease in maximums. The temperatures gradually rise again from July to September, remaining cool, averaging around 17°C (63°F), before a slight warming trend resumes in October through December, where averages increase to 20°C (69°F) and maximums reach 31°C (89°F) by year’s end. This pattern illustrates a climate that transitions from intense warmth to cooler, more temperate conditions throughout the year.
Paracas experiences a mild climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) in August to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in February, making it ideal for visitors year-round (monthly temperatures in Paracas). In contrast, Nazca has slightly cooler temperatures, showcasing a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in August and peaking at 30°C (86°F) in December (monthly temperatures in Nazca). Puno boasts a wider temperature range, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) in August and a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in March, appealing to those who enjoy warmer weather (monthly temperatures in Puno).
Ica, Peru, is characterized by a highly concentrated precipitation pattern, primarily occurring during the wet season from January to March. January and February are the peak months, each receiving approximately 55 mm (2.2 in) of rainfall over 9 and 11 days, respectively. By March, precipitation begins to decline slightly to 41 mm (1.6 in), with rain observed for about 8 days. As the region transitions into the dry season, rainfall dramatically decreases, with April recording just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, followed by an almost negligible amount in the subsequent months.
From May to September, rainfall is minimal, with June, July, and August each reporting less than 3 mm (0.1 in), often experiencing no rain at all. The pattern sees a gradual increase in precipitation again in October through December, with totals of 6 mm (0.2 in) in October, 5 mm (0.2 in) in November, and 12 mm (0.5 in) in December, albeit with only a few days of rainfall each month. This stark contrast between wet and dry months highlights Ica's arid climate, emphasizing occasional wet spells that define its annual weather cycle.
Ica, Peru, boasts an impressive amount of sunshine throughout the year, with a noticeable peak during the late summer months. January begins the year with 255 hours of sunlight, yet this figure steadily climbs as the year progresses, reaching a high of 309 hours in March. The most remarkable increase occurs from March to May, where sunshine hours soar to an impressive 334 hours, showcasing the region’s transition into the warmest months. This trend continues into June and July, with 319 hours and 331 hours of sun respectively, thus establishing a climate characterized by abundant daylight.
As the year wanes, Ica continues to enjoy substantial sunshine, with October marking the pinnacle at 353 hours before tapering down slightly in November and December to 342 hours and 337 hours, respectively. This gradual decline, however, still leaves the region awash in light compared to winter months in other parts of the world. Overall, Ica's consistent and high sunshine duration underscores its status as a prime location for both agriculture and outdoor activities, capitalizing on the vast amount of solar radiation available throughout most of the year.
Ica, Peru, experiences consistently high UV Index readings throughout the year, prompting extreme caution for outdoor activities. From January to March, the UV Index remains at a remarkably high level of 18, indicating extreme sun exposure risk with a minimum burn time of just 10 minutes. This pattern continues into April with a slight decrease to 16, but still falls within the same risk category. As the year progresses, UV Index values fluctuate minimally, remaining well above 10 during the winter months, which emphasizes the persistent strength of solar radiation in this region.
The summer months from May to October present slightly varying conditions; however, the UV Index remains significantly high, ranging from 13 to 17. Notably, November and December return to an intense 18, reinforcing the extreme exposure risks. Such persistent and elevated UV levels underscore the necessity for protective measures, including sunscreen, hats, and UV-blocking eyewear, especially for individuals engaging in outdoor activities. Awareness of the UV Index is essential for ensuring safety and health while enjoying the abundant sunshine that Ica offers year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Ica, Peru, exhibits a relatively stable daylight duration throughout the year, primarily characterized by a consistent 12 hours of daylight per day during the summer months of January, February, and March. This steady duration offers ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural practices, capitalizing on the sun's energy during the warmest part of the year. As the seasons transition into the cooler months of April through August, daylight diminishes slightly to 11 hours per day, yet this modest reduction does not significantly impact the region's overall climate or its vibrant ecosystems.
As autumn approaches in September, daylight once again resurfaces to an average of 12 hours, maintaining this length through December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration, where the variation remains minimal between 11 and 12 hours, fosters an environment of predictability in Ica's climate. The consistent daylight hours contribute positively to both the lifestyle of its inhabitants and the productivity of its agricultural sectors, allowing for a reliable agricultural season that supports the region's economic activities.
Chavín, Peru experiences a mild climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 15°C (59°F) with highs peaking at 21°C (71°F) in April and July. Rainfall is most significant from January to March, with February receiving the highest precipitation at 227 mm (9.0 in), transitioning to much drier months from June to August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from March to August, where hours exceed 300 per month. For more detailed information, visit Chavin climate.
Ica, Peru experiences a warm desert climate characterized by high temperatures and low precipitation. From January to March, temperatures range from 17°C to 31°C (64°F to 89°F), while cooler months, like June and July, see temperatures dropping to around 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is minimal, with the majority occurring between January and March, totaling only about 53 mm (2.1 in) in January. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, peaking in October with 357 hours. For more details, visit Ica climate.
Nazca, Peru experiences a varied climate with warm temperatures year-round. January to March sees average temperatures ranging from 21°C to 22°C (70°F to 72°F), and experiences the highest rainfall, peaking at 98 mm in February. Notably, the dry season spans from May to August, where rainfall drops significantly, averaging less than 3 mm. Despite lower temperatures during this time, Nazca enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from October to May, often exceeding 300 hours monthly. For more details, visit Nazca climate.
Paracas, Peru features a mild desert climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) in August to a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in February. Annual precipitation is low, with most months receiving less than 15 mm of rain, particularly dry from May to September. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in October with 353 hours. Visitors can expect pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Paracas climate.
Pisco, Peru experiences a mild desert climate characterized by warm temperatures and low precipitation throughout the year. The warmest months are February and March, with average temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F) to 23°C (74°F) and maximums between 29°C (85°F) and 28°C (82°F). Rainfall is minimal, peaking in January at just 13 mm (0.5 in) and often dropping to 1 mm (0.0 in) from August to October. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in October, with a total of 353 hours, making it a bright destination year-round. For more details, visit Pisco climate.
Puno, Peru experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm temperatures and limited rainfall. During the hottest months, January through March, average temperatures range from 23°C (74°F) to 24°C (75°F), while the peak temperature can reach up to 32°C (89°F) in January and March. Precipitation is minimal, especially from May to August, when it drops to nearly zero, and sunshine is plentiful with over 300 hours in most months. For a detailed overview, visit Puno climate.
Tupac Amaru, Peru, experiences a mild climate characterized by warm temperatures and minimal precipitation throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 16°C (62°F) in August to 23°C (74°F) in February, with maximums reaching up to 29°C (85°F) in the summer months. Rainfall is quite low, peaking at 13 mm (0.5 in) in January and dropping to negligible amounts from June to August. The region enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, with October offering the highest at 353 hours. For more details, visit Tupac Amaru climate.
In conclusion, Ica, Peru, presents a unique climate profile characterized by its arid conditions, high sunshine duration, and consistently elevated UV Index levels throughout the year. The region experiences significant warmth and limited rainfall, with a clear distinction between its wet and dry seasons. Despite minor fluctuations, daylight duration remains relatively stable at around 11 to 12 hours, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and agricultural endeavors. As Ica continues to embrace its sunny, warm climate, understanding these climatic patterns will be crucial for promoting health, safety, and sustainable practices within the community and among visitors alike.