Last updated: January 18, 2025
Montevideo, Uruguay, is characterized by a Cfa climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, which denotes a humid subtropical climate. The region experiences a wide temperature range, with winter temperatures dipping to a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in August, while summer can reach highs of 39°C (103°F) in January. The average annual temperature hovers around 17°C (63°F), resulting in a diverse climate that supports both warm summers and relatively mild winters, influencing the local flora and fauna as well as urban life.
Montevideo experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns, characterized by warm summers and cooler winters. In the height of summer, January sees minimums of 12°C (53°F) and maximums soaring to 39°C (103°F), maintaining an average of 23°C (74°F). February and March follow suit with slightly lower temperatures, as the city transitions into autumn, bringing cooler minimums and average highs around 32°C (91°F). By April, temperatures continue to drop, averaging 19°C (66°F), and further decline in the winter months of June and July, where minimums dip to as low as 1°C (34°F), and average temperatures hover around 11°C (52°F). However, spring brings a gradual warming trend, with temperatures rising in October and November, culminating in the end-of-year averages near 19°C (67°F) before warming again into summer. This cyclical pattern underscores Montevideo's humid subtropical climate, presenting a harmonious balance of seasonal extremes.
Santiago Vazquez and Pajas Blancas share a similar temperature range, experiencing a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in August and a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in January, as detailed in their respective climate profiles: monthly temperatures in Santiago Vazquez and monthly temperatures in Pajas Blancas. In contrast, Montevideo experiences slightly milder conditions, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in July and a maximum of 31°C (87°F) in January, as outlined in its climate data: monthly temperatures in Montevideo.
Montevideo experiences a relatively well-distributed annual precipitation pattern, with rainfall peaking during the autumn and winter months. January starts the year with 67 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall over approximately 5 days, setting the stage for the wetter months ahead. February marks a significant increase in precipitation, with 87 mm (3.4 in) over 9 days, followed by consistent levels of rainfall from March to April, each averaging around 78 mm (3.1 in). The late autumn and winter months of May and July are particularly wet, with May recording 113 mm (4.4 in) and July slightly higher at 111 mm (4.4 in), showcasing a distinct seasonal shift.
As the year progresses into spring, precipitation begins to decrease. In November, the rainfall tapers off to 66 mm (2.6 in), while December sees a further drop to 61 mm (2.4 in), both within a similar number of rainy days. The absence of heavy rainfall during this period allows for clearer skies, reflecting the transitional climate. Overall, the precipitation trends in Montevideo not only illustrate seasonal variations but also highlight the region’s humid subtropical climate, providing vital water resources for the local ecosystem and agriculture.
In Montevideo, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with the summer months boasting the highest number of hours basked in sunlight. January leads the pack with 305 hours, followed closely by 316 hours in February and peaking at 321 hours in March. This trio of months not only marks the height of summer but also offers residents and visitors alike an invitation to enjoy outdoor activities under clear skies. The enrichment of daylight during these months highlights Montevideo's vibrant cultural scene and outdoor lifestyle, contributing to a lively atmosphere throughout the city.
As the seasons shift into autumn and winter, sunshine hours begin to decline steadily. April sees a notable drop to 265 hours, transitioning into the cooler months of May and June where sunshine lingers for just 239 hours and 211 hours, respectively. This trend continues into July, maintaining the same level of 211 hours, revealing a period of shorter days and less sunlight. However, as spring approaches, a gradual increase in sunshine hours resumes, culminating in 385 hours in December, heralding the return of longer days and brighter skies. These fluctuations not only shape daily life in Montevideo but also affect local agriculture, tourism, and the overall well-being of its inhabitants.
Montevideo experiences a significant variation in the UV Index throughout the year, reflecting the changing intensity of solar radiation. During the peak summer months of January through March, the UV Index reaches extreme levels, with values soaring to 14 in January and 13 in February. This necessitates a brief burn time of just 10 minutes, underscoring the need for protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing to mitigate health risks. As the temperature and brightness promote outdoor activities, awareness of the extreme UV levels is crucial to ensure safety and prevent skin damage.
As autumn transitions into winter, the UV Index decreases but remains noteworthy, shifting to more moderate levels. By April, the index drops to 7, categorized as high, allowing for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. Following this, it continues to decline through May and June, reaching 5 and 3, respectively, before gradually rising again in spring. Notably, September and October witness a resurgence in UV levels, with values reaching 8 and 10, categorized as very high. Consequently, while the intensity of UV radiation varies with the seasons, vigilance and sun safety remain essential year-round for the well-being of Montevideo's residents and visitors.
UV Risk Categories
In Montevideo, daylight duration follows a clear seasonal rhythm, peaking during the summer months and gradually decreasing into winter. January provides the longest days, with a generous 14 hours of daylight, which shifts to 13 hours in February and 12 hours in March. This abundance of sunlight encourages outdoor activities and social gatherings, fostering a vibrant atmosphere in the city. As autumn approaches, daylight decreases to 11 hours in April, and by May, it dips further to 10 hours, signaling a transition to the cooler months.
The winter months of June and July experience the shortest daylight hours, with only 9 and 10 hours respectively, leading to a more subdued lifestyle. As the seasons shift back towards spring, daylight gradually increases again, with 11 hours in September and 12 hours in October, before climbing to 13 hours in November. December marks the return of long days, mirroring January’s peak at 14 hours. This cyclical pattern not only affects daily routines and recreational activities but also plays a key role in the local ecosystem, influencing plant growth and animal behaviors throughout the year.
Montevideo, Uruguay, experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. January sees average temperatures around 23°C (73°F) and the highest rainfall in February at 84 mm (3.3 in). Winter months, particularly July, feature cooler temperatures that can drop to 6°C (43°F) and increased precipitation, peaking at 122 mm (4.8 in). The city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in December with 385 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Montevideo climate.
Pajas Blancas, Uruguay, experiences a temperate climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January is the hottest month, with average temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and peak rainfall of 70 mm, while July is the coldest, averaging 11°C (52°F) with a significant precipitation of 105 mm. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in December with 385 hours, contributing to warm weather. Rainfall is heaviest in May, totaling 112 mm, but the overall distribution shows a trend of varied precipitation throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Pajas Blancas climate.
Santiago Vazquez, Uruguay experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers (December to February) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 24°C (71°F to 75°F) and rainfall peaking in February at 89 mm (3.5 in). Winters (June to August) are cooler, averaging between 11°C to 12°C (52°F to 54°F) and featuring substantial rainfall, with July receiving around 105 mm (4.1 in). The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in December with 385 hours, contributing to a pleasant ambiance year-round. For more details, visit Santiago Vazquez climate.
In conclusion, Montevideo's climate and daylight patterns reveal a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV exposure, and daylight hours throughout the year. The city's humid subtropical climate provides residents with hot summers characterized by lengthy days and intense sunlight, while cooler winters introduce shorter daylight hours and moderate UV levels. Seasonal variations also play a crucial role in shaping outdoor lifestyles, agricultural practices, and ecological interactions. Understanding these climatic trends not only enhances the appreciation of Montevideo's natural environment but also underscores the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions for health and well-being.