Altamira Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil
General Climate
Altamira, Brazil, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from October to April, bringing abundant rainfall to the region. During this period, the average monthly temperature ranges from 26°C (79°F) to 28°C (82°F), with high humidity levels. Conversely, the dry season lasts from May to September and features much less rainfall. The average monthly temperature during this time hovers around 24°C (75°F), with lower humidity.
Month-by-Month Average Weather
- January: The warmest month, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C (79°F) to 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is high, averaging around 300mm (12in).
- April: The wettest month, with an average rainfall of over 350mm (14in). Temperatures remain warm, with an average range of 26°C (79°F) to 32°C (90°F).
- July: The driest month, receiving less than 50mm (2in) of rain. Temperatures are slightly cooler, with an average range of 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F).
- October: The start of the wet season, with increasing rainfall and temperatures averaging 26°C (79°F) to 33°C (91°F).
Average Temperature in Altamira, Brazil
Altamira is a city in Brazil and the average temperature in Altamira, Brazil, varies throughout the year. The hottest month is January, with an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit). The coldest month is July, with an average temperature of 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit).
The average temperature in Altamira is relatively high throughout the year. Even in the coldest month, the average temperature is still above 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes Altamira a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a warm and sunny vacation spot. The city also has a variety of beaches, which are a great place to relax and enjoy the warm weather.
Cumulus Congestus Clouds
The skies above Altamira, Brazil, are often adorned with towering cumulus congestus clouds. These clouds are characterized by their cauliflower-like appearance and are generally found at low to middle altitudes. They form when moist air rises rapidly, causing water vapor to condense and form cloud droplets. Cumulus congestus clouds can produce light rain or showers, and they often serve as precursors to thunderstorms.
Cirrus Clouds
In contrast to the lower-altitude cumulus congestus clouds, cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that form at high altitudes. They are composed of ice crystals and appear as delicate filaments or streaks in the sky. Cirrus clouds are often associated with fair weather and can indicate the presence of a warm front. They do not produce precipitation and are typically transparent, allowing sunlight to pass through them.
Precipitation Patterns
Altamira, Brazil experiences abundant precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,900 millimeters. The wet season spans from December to May, during which Altamira receives heavy rainfall, averaging over 300 millimeters per month. The months of February and March are particularly wet, each receiving an average of around 400 millimeters of precipitation. During this period, torrential downpours and thunderstorms are common.
Seasonal Variability
In contrast to the wet season, the dry season in Altamira typically lasts from June to September. During these months, precipitation levels drop significantly, averaging around 50 millimeters per month. However, sporadic rainfall can still occur, especially in the transition months of May and October. The dry season provides a respite from the heavy rains, allowing for outdoor activities and agricultural practices. The lack of precipitation during this time can lead to dry vegetation and occasional water shortages in some areas of Altamira.
Rainfall Patterns
Altamira, Brazil, experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically spans from October to April, during which heavy rainfall occurs. The wettest months are January and February, with average rainfall exceeding 300 millimeters per month. During this period, frequent thunderstorms and tropical depressions bring abundant precipitation, contributing to the lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems of the region.
Seasonal Variability
Rainfall in Altamira exhibits significant seasonal variability. The dry season, from May to September, brings a notable decrease in rainfall. Average monthly precipitation during this time drops below 50 millimeters in June and July. The transition between seasons occurs gradually, with a gradual increase in rainfall from September onward and a subsequent decrease towards May. This seasonal shift influences the local economy, agricultural practices, and the availability of water resources throughout the year.
Snowfall in Altamira, Brazil: A Rare Phenomenon
Altamira, a city located in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, experienced a rare snowfall in July 2013. The snowfall, which lasted for approximately 15 minutes, occurred during a cold snap that brought temperatures down to near freezing. This was the first recorded snowfall in the region in over a century, making it a historic event. The snowfall caused widespread excitement and amazement among the local population, as well as much discussion among scientists about its potential causes.
Exceptional Circumstances
The snowfall in Altamira was attributed to a combination of exceptional circumstances. A strong cold front had moved through the region, bringing with it cold and dry air from the Antarctic. This cold air encountered warm and moist air from the Amazon rainforest, creating unstable atmospheric conditions. Additionally, the snowfall occurred at night, when temperatures were at their lowest. The combination of these factors led to the formation of snow clouds and the subsequent snowfall. The snowfall in Altamira serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, extraordinary weather events can occur.
Sunrise in Altamira, Brazil
Altamira, located in northern Brazil, is a city known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. One of the most awe-inspiring sights to witness in Altamira is the breathtaking sunrise over the Xingu River. As the first rays of dawn pierce through the darkness, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, from deep oranges to brilliant golds and pinks. The Xingu River, a majestic waterway that flows through the heart of the Amazon rainforest, reflects the kaleidoscopic colors, creating a surreal and ethereal spectacle.
Sunset in Altamira, Brazil
As the day draws to an end, the sunset in Altamira is an equally captivating sight. The sky explodes in a symphony of colors, with shades of purple, orange, and red intertwining in an otherworldly dance. The sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the surrounding landscape. This magical moment is a time for reflection and tranquility, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature. As darkness falls, the stars begin to twinkle in the clear night sky, completing the enchanting ambiance that defines the sunsets in Altamira, Brazil.
Moon Illusion in Altamira, Brazil
The “Moon Illusion” is a phenomenon where the moon appears larger when near the horizon, despite being the same size in the sky. In Altamira, Brazil, this illusion is particularly pronounced due to a unique combination of environmental factors. The low humidity and lack of light pollution create an unusually clear and unobscured view of the moon. Additionally, the flat horizon and surrounding river provide a perfect backdrop for highlighting the moon’s apparent size and proximity.
Cultural Significance of the Moon Illusion in Altamira
In Altamira’s indigenous community, the Moon Illusion holds deep cultural significance. The moon is considered a symbol of wisdom, fertility, and protection. During the full moon, traditional rituals and ceremonies are performed to honor the celestial body. The Moon Illusion is also a source of folklore and storytelling, with local legends attributing its extraordinary appearance to the intervention of spirits or magical creatures. Furthermore, the illusion serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, reinforcing the community’s deep reverence for the environment.
Annual Humidity Patterns
Altamira, located in the northern region of Brazil, experiences distinct annual humidity patterns. During the dry season, which typically lasts from June to September, humidity levels drop significantly. The average daily relative humidity during these months is around 60-70%. The low humidity is primarily influenced by the prevailing trade winds, which carry dry air from the Atlantic Ocean.
Seasonal Variations
During the wet season, which spans from December to March, humidity levels rise substantially. The average daily relative humidity during this period is around 80-90%. The increased humidity is a result of heavy rainfall associated with the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). This zone brings moist air from the Amazon rainforest into the region, resulting in high humidity levels and frequent precipitation.
Impacts on Daily Life
The high humidity levels during the wet season can have a significant impact on daily life in Altamira. The moisture in the air can make it uncomfortable to be outdoors for extended periods. Additionally, the humidity can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks. During the dry season, the relatively low humidity can cause skin and respiratory problems, particularly for individuals with sensitive conditions.
Wind Patterns and Seasonality
Altamira, Brazil, experiences distinct seasonal wind patterns. During the dry season (May-September), the prevailing winds blow from the southeast, known as the trade winds. These winds bring stable and dry conditions, with wind speeds typically ranging from 5 to 15 knots (9 to 28 kilometers per hour). During the wet season (October-April), the wind direction shifts to the north, bringing in warm and humid air from the Amazon rainforest. These winds are often stronger, reaching speeds of up to 20 knots (37 kilometers per hour), and frequently bring precipitation.
Wind Impacts and Economic Implications
The wind patterns in Altamira have a significant impact on the region’s economy. The strong trade winds during the dry season create ideal conditions for wind power generation. Altamira is home to the largest wind farm complex in South America, consisting of over 300 wind turbines with a combined capacity of 1 gigawatt. This wind farm provides clean and renewable energy to the region, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, the prevailing winds during the dry season facilitate transportation, as sailing vessels can take advantage of the favorable wind conditions to navigate the Xingu and Amazon Rivers.
Best time to visit in Altamira, Brazil
Altamira, Brazil, is a city located in the Amazon rainforest. The city has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. However, there are two distinct seasons in Altamira: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season in Altamira runs from December to May. During this time, the city receives an average of 200 mm of rain per month. The high rainfall can make it difficult to get around, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter than it actually is. However, the wet season is also the time of year when the rainforest is at its most lush and green.
The dry season in Altamira runs from June to November. During this time, the city receives an average of 50 mm of rain per month. The lower rainfall makes it easier to get around, and the humidity is lower, making it feel cooler than during the wet season. However, the dry season can also be a time of drought, and the rainforest can start to look brown and parched.
Solar Energy Potential in Altamira, Brazil
Altamira, located in the northern Brazilian state of Pará, possesses significant solar energy potential due to its favorable climatic conditions. The region experiences an average of 2,800 sunshine hours annually, providing ample opportunities for solar energy generation. The town’s proximity to the equator ensures consistent sunshine throughout the year, minimizing seasonal fluctuations in solar insolation. With an average daily solar irradiance of around 5.5 kWh/m², Altamira ranks among the regions with the highest solar potential in Brazil.
Solar Energy Projects in Altamira
Recognizing the vast potential for solar energy, several projects have been initiated in Altamira to harness this renewable resource. In 2019, the Altamira Solar Plant, with a capacity of 156 MW, became the largest operating solar plant in Brazil. The project, developed by AES Brasil, has the potential to generate enough electricity to power approximately 300,000 homes. In addition, several smaller-scale solar projects have been implemented in the municipality, catering to residential, commercial, and agricultural sectors. These initiatives have contributed to the diversification of the region’s energy mix and the promotion of sustainable development in Altamira.
Geology
Altamira is situated in the Tapajós-Xingu Province of the Brazilian Amazonian Shield, a region characterized by Precambrian gneiss and granite domes. The city itself is located on a plateau of Proterozoic sandstone and shale, which rises dramatically from the surrounding plains. These uplifted blocks, known as tablelands, are a common feature of the Brazilian Shield and provide a distinctive topography to the region.
Geomorphology
The Xingu River, one of the major tributaries of the Amazon, flows through Altamira and has played a significant role in shaping the local geomorphology. The river has incised a deep valley into the plateau, creating steep escarpments and waterfalls. The river’s floodplain is home to numerous lakes and meandering channels, forming a complex and dynamic aquatic environment. The surrounding plains are characterized by rolling hills and valleys, with occasional outcrops of bedrock. The area is also home to isolated inselbergs, which are isolated hills that rise abruptly from the surrounding landscape, providing scenic landmarks.
Altamira Airport (ATM)
Altamira Airport, also known as Altamira Municipal Airport, is located in the municipality of Altamira, in the state of Pará, Brazil. The airport is located about 5 kilometers from the city center and is the main airport serving the region. Altamira Airport has one runway, which is 1,500 meters long and 30 meters wide. The airport is operated by INFRAERO, the Brazilian airport authority.
Altamira Airport offers limited commercial flights, with regular service to Belém, the capital of Pará, and Santarém, a city located on the Amazon River. The airport also handles cargo flights and is used by private aircraft. Altamira Airport is an important transportation hub for the region, providing access to the Amazon Basin and the interior of Brazil.
History of Altamira, Brazil
Altamira is a municipality located in the state of Pará, Brazil. It was founded in 1911 and named after the Spanish word “altamire,” which means “high view.” The city is situated on the Xingu River, and its economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and tourism. Altamira has a rich history, dating back to the pre-Columbian era when the region was inhabited by indigenous tribes. In the 18th century, Portuguese explorers arrived in the area and established trading posts. Altamira became a municipality in 1911, and it has since grown into a major economic and cultural center in the region.
Cultural Heritage of Altamira, Brazil
Altamira is home to a diverse cultural heritage, which is influenced by its indigenous, Portuguese, and African roots. The city is known for its vibrant folklore and traditional festivals, such as the Festival of Círio de Nazaré and the Festival of São João. Altamira also has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes such as Tacacá, a traditional Amazonian soup, and Vatapá, a seafood stew. The city is home to several museums and cultural centers, which preserve and showcase the region’s history and culture.