Ponce Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Ponce, Puerto Rico, showcases a tropical climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification of Am, indicating a distinguished monsoon feature. The region experiences a minimum temperature of approximately 18°C (65°F) in January, ascending to an average of 25°C (78°F) throughout the year. The peaks in warmth occur in August, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 31°C (89°F). This climatic pattern underscores Ponce's warm and humid environment, influenced by its coastal position and seasonal rainfall, making it a unique locale for both residents and visitors.

Ponce temperature by month

In Ponce, Puerto Rico, temperature patterns exhibit a warm and consistent tropical climate throughout the year. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where the minimum dips to 18°C (65°F), gradually rising to more stable levels, with minimums around 20°C (68°F) from February to April. As spring transitions to summer, temperatures see a noticeable increase, with maximums peaking at 31°C (89°F) in July and August, indicating the height of the warm season. Throughout this period, average temperatures remain relatively stable, hovering between 24°C (75°F) and 27°C (80°F), while a slight decrease in temperatures can be observed as the year approaches the latter months, where November and December experience minimums around 21°C (71°F). This gradual shift underscores the tropical monsoon climate of the region, marked by warm temperatures and a distinct seasonal rhythm.

Monthly Temperatures in Ponce, Puerto Rico

The chart illustrates Ponce's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec757575767779808080797877
Data source: Ponce temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

In Marueno, the temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) in August, offering a warm climate throughout the year monthly temperatures in Marueno. Ponce shares a similar minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, but its maximum peaks at 30°C (87°F) in July monthly temperatures in Ponce. Coto Laurel also mirrors this pattern with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January and a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in July, highlighting the consistent warm temperatures in the region monthly temperatures in Coto Laurel.

Precipitation Patterns in Ponce

Ponce, Puerto Rico, experiences a diverse precipitation pattern throughout the year, characterized by both seasonal fluctuations and variations in intensity. The year begins relatively dry, with 24 mm (0.9 in) of rainfall in January and a slight increase to 27 mm (1.1 in) in February. However, as spring approaches, rainfall significantly increases in March, reaching 53 mm (2.1 in), and peaks in May at 63 mm (2.5 in). The summer months, particularly July and August, see marked spikes in precipitation, with 86 mm (3.4 in) and 91 mm (3.6 in), respectively, highlighting the onset of the wet season.

The frequency of rainy days also reflects these patterns, with January experiencing 8 rainy days while the count escalates to 23 days in September, the month with the highest total rainfall of 161 mm (6.3 in). This heightened precipitation in September typically coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, which can lead to intense storms. The rainfall begins to taper off again in October, with 113 mm (4.4 in) and is followed by a decrease in rainy days during November and December, showcasing the transitional weather patterns that characterize Ponce's monsoon-influenced climate.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Ponce, Puerto Rico

The average monthly precipitation in Ponce, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24275352645786911611138829
Data source: Ponce precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Ponce

In Ponce, Puerto Rico, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, reflecting a steady increase from winter to summer. The year begins with 261 hours of sunlight in January, only to rise steadily over the following months. February sees a jump to 306 hours, and by March, the sunshine hours reach 347, culminating in a remarkable peak of 360 hours in May. This upward trend underlines the transition to the warmest and sunniest months, where longer days and clearer skies become more prevalent, making this period especially enjoyable for outdoor activities.

As the summer months approach, sunshine remains abundant, with hours slightly declining in June (346 hours) and July (357 hours) but still reflecting impressive totals. By August, the sunshine duration remains robust at 352 hours before gradually tapering off in the fall, with September recording 316 hours and both October and November seeing around 315 hours and 300 hours, respectively. Despite these decreases, sunlight remains relatively plentiful throughout the year, illustrating Ponce's favorable climate for sunshine seekers. Overall, the notable consistency of sunny days contributes to the vibrant ambiance that characterizes this coastal city.

Monthly Sunshine in Ponce, Puerto Rico

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Ponce receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec261h306h347h350h360h346h357h352h316h315h300h320h
Data source: Ponce sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Ponce UV Index Trends

The UV Index in Ponce, Puerto Rico, consistently demonstrates high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, necessitating caution for sun exposure. Beginning in January, the UV Index starts at 9, categorized as very high, indicating that unprotected skin could be susceptible to sunburn in as little as 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February, this figure escalates to 11, then peaks at 14 from April through May, signaling extreme conditions where only brief exposure is safe. The 10-minute burn time during these months highlights the urgent need for sun protection, as the risk of skin damage rises significantly.

As the summer season unfolds, the UV Index remains elevated, hovering around 13 in June, July, and August, classified still as extreme. Although September experiences a slight increase at 14, conditions remain harsh for UV exposure, emphasized by the continuous 10-minute burn time. Even as the year winds down, November returns to 10 with very high exposure, and December follows closely behind at 9. This data collectively underscores the importance of sun safety practices year-round in Ponce, as residents and visitors alike must be vigilant against the risks posed by high UV levels.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ponce, Puerto Rico

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ponce. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9111314141313131412109
Data source: Ponce UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Ponce

In Ponce, Puerto Rico, daylight duration remains fairly consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical latitude. Both January and February experience 11 hours of daylight, providing equal opportunities for sun and shade during the cooler winter months. As spring approaches, there is a gradual increase in daylight hours, reaching 12 hours in March, April, and May, signaling the transition into warmer temperatures and longer days that are typical of the season.

This trend continues into the summer, with June and July boasting the longest daylight periods at 13 hours each, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beach outings. As summer wanes, daylight hours gradually decrease, dropping back to 12 hours in August and September, before returning to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This cyclical pattern showcases Ponce's inviting climate, where ample daylight facilitates a vibrant lifestyle year-round, despite minor fluctuations throughout the seasons.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Ponce, Puerto Rico

This chart shows the total daylight hours Ponce receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec670h692h722h753h778h790h784h761h732h702h676h663h
Data source: Ponce daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Ponce's Popular Destinations

Coto Laurel, Puerto Rico experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in July and August. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in September with 158 mm (6.2 in) while December sees significantly less at 31 mm (1.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May, which boasts 359 hours. For more details about the climate, visit Coto Laurel climate.

The climate in Marueno, Puerto Rico, is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 24°C (76°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in July and August. Precipitation levels vary, peaking in September at 167 mm (6.6 in), while the driest month is January, with only 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain. Marueno enjoys abundant sunshine, with May being the sunniest month, boasting 361 hours of sunlight. Overall, visitors can expect a tropical experience with mild winters and warm summers. For more detailed information, visit Marueno climate.

Ponce, Puerto Rico, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a mild 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to a peak of 27°C (81°F) in the summer, with highs reaching 30°C (87°F) in July and August. Rainfall varies, with the wettest months being September and October, accumulating over 150 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation, while January and December are drier with around 26 mm (1.0 in) and 31 mm (1.2 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from March to May, with over 350 hours of sunlight, making Ponce a bright and humid destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Ponce climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ponce, Puerto Rico, presents a captivating climate profile characterized by warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and significant UV exposure throughout the year. With consistent daylight hours ranging from 11 to 13 hours, residents and visitors alike are afforded ample opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities in the sun. However, the high UV Index levels, particularly during the peak months of April through September, underscore the importance of sun protection to mitigate skin risks. As Ponce continues to be a destination for those seeking a tropical paradise, understanding these climatic attributes is essential for maximizing enjoyment while ensuring safety in this vibrant coastal city.

Discover the Climate of Ponce's Places

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