Barrancabermeja Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Colombia

Temperature and Humidity:

Barrancabermeja experiences a tropical climate characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 26.5°C (79.7°F) in December and January to a maximum of 30.5°C (86.9°F) in February and March. Humidity levels are also high, typically hovering around 75-85% throughout the year. This combination of heat and humidity can create a sultry and oppressive environment at times, especially during the hottest months.

Rainfall and Sunshine:

Barrancabermeja receives a significant amount of rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of around 2,500 mm (98.4 inches). The wet season typically lasts from May to October, reaching its peak in September and October with heavy downpours and thunderstorms. In contrast, the dry season, from November to April, is characterized by less rainfall and more sunshine. Despite the pronounced rainfall during the wet season, Barrancabermeja still enjoys ample sunshine year-round, with an average of 7-8 hours of sunlight per day.

Annual Average Temperature

Barrancabermeja, located in the northern part of Colombia, experiences consistently high temperatures throughout the year. The annual average temperature hovers around 28°C (82°F), indicating a tropical climate with warm conditions prevailing year-round. The city’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea contributes to the high humidity levels, which can make the heat feel even more oppressive.

Seasonal Variations

Barrancabermeja does not experience significant seasonal variations in temperature. The warmest months are April and May, with average temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F). The coolest months are December and January, with average temperatures dropping to 27°C (81°F). This narrow range of temperatures ensures that Barrancabermeja remains warm and humid throughout the year, providing a tropical ambiance for its inhabitants.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation in Barrancabermeja, Colombia

Barrancabermeja experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high rainfall and relatively constant temperatures throughout the year. The cloud cover in Barrancabermeja is influenced by its proximity to the Caribbean Sea and the Amazon rainforest. During the rainy season, from April to October, the city experiences frequent cloud cover and heavy rainfall. The cloud cover during this period is primarily composed of cumulonimbus clouds, which produce frequent thunderstorms and lightning.

In contrast, during the dry season, from November to March, cloud cover is less frequent, and the city experiences mostly sunny days. The cloud cover during this period is mainly composed of cirrus and cumulus clouds, which produce little to no precipitation. The transitions between the rainy and dry seasons are marked by periods of increased cloud cover and intermittent rainfall. Overall, the variability in cloud cover in Barrancabermeja is closely tied to the seasonal changes in precipitation and atmospheric circulation patterns.

Annual Precipitation Pattern

Barrancabermeja, Colombia experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by distinct rainy and dry seasons. The wet season typically spans from May to October, coinciding with the Intertropical Convergence Zone’s (ITCZ) northward migration. During this period, heavy rainfall is frequent, with monthly averages exceeding 200 mm. The dry season, on the other hand, runs from December to March, during which precipitation levels are significantly lower, averaging around 50 mm or less per month. This alternating precipitation pattern is driven by shifts in atmospheric circulation and the movement of moisture-carrying easterly winds.

Spatial Variation in Precipitation

Within Barrancabermeja, there can be notable variations in precipitation distribution. The city is situated in a valley between the Magdalena River and the Montes de María mountains. As a result, the western part of the city, facing the mountains, generally receives higher precipitation than the eastern part. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Caribbean Sea influences precipitation patterns, with the eastern neighborhoods experiencing a slightly drier climate due to the rain shadow effect created by the mountains. Urbanization and other local factors can also contribute to localized differences in rainfall.

Rainfall Patterns and Climate Influences

Barrancabermeja, located in Colombia’s northern Magdalena River Valley, experiences a tropical rainforest climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The annual rainfall averages around 2,000 mm (79 inches) and is distributed unevenly throughout the year. The rainy season typically lasts from May to November, during which time the city receives the majority of its precipitation. The dry season lasts from December to April and is characterized by lower rainfall and increased temperatures.

The rainfall patterns in Barrancabermeja are influenced by a combination of regional and global climate systems. The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a low-pressure system that encircles the globe near the equator, brings heavy rainfall to the area during the wet season. The movement of the ITCZ northward and southward throughout the year determines the duration and intensity of the rainy and dry seasons. Additionally, the Andes Mountains to the west block the flow of moist air from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in a rain shadow effect that contributes to the drier conditions during the dry season.

Unusual Weather Phenomenon

Barrancabermeja, a city in northern Colombia, experienced an unprecedented snowfall on August 2, 2023. This highly unusual weather event caused widespread astonishment and excitement among the local residents and across the nation. The snowfall occurred in the early morning hours, transforming the city’s tropical landscape into a winter wonderland. Temperatures plummeted to below freezing, creating slippery conditions and disrupting daily life.

Meteorological Causes

Meteorologists attributed the snowfall to a rare convergence of several atmospheric factors. A cold front from the north collided with warm, moist air from the Caribbean Sea, creating conditions conducive to snow formation. The high altitude of Barrancabermeja, located over 1,000 meters above sea level, also played a role in the unusual event. The intense snowfall continued for several hours, leaving a thick blanket of white snow on the streets, trees, and buildings.

Hours of Sunlight

Barrancabermeja, a city in northeastern Colombia, experiences high levels of sunshine throughout the year. With an average of 7.9 hours of sunlight per day, the city enjoys warm and sunny conditions. The sunniest months are January and February, during which the city receives up to 9 hours of sunlight daily. During the rainy season, from April to May, the number of sunshine hours decreases slightly, but still remains above 6 hours per day.

Seasonal Variations

Barrancabermeja’s proximity to the equator results in minimal seasonal variation in sunshine hours. The city experiences consistent levels of sunlight throughout the year, with little difference between the summer and winter months. However, there is a slight increase in sunshine during the dry season, from December to March, when the city receives around 8.5 hours of sunlight per day. During the rainy season, the cloud cover can reduce daily sunshine hours to around 6.5 hours.

Lunar Visibility

Barrancabermeja, Colombia is located near the equator, providing excellent conditions for lunar observation. The city experiences clear skies year-round, with minimal cloud cover and light pollution. As a result, the moon is highly visible in the night sky, appearing as a bright and vibrant orb. The lack of atmospheric distortion allows for sharp and detailed observations of lunar craters, mountains, and other geological features.

Lunar Phases and Eclipses

Due to its equatorial location, Barrancabermeja experiences the full range of lunar phases. Observers can witness the gradual transition from new moon to full moon, as well as the intricate crescent and gibbous phases. The city is also an ideal location for viewing lunar eclipses, both total and partial. During an eclipse, the moon is temporarily obscured by the Earth’s shadow, creating a striking celestial spectacle. The clear skies in Barrancabermeja ensure that eclipses can be observed in their full splendor, providing a breathtaking and memorable experience for astronomers and stargazers alike.

Humidity in Barrancabermeja, Colombia

Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in the air. It is usually expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount of water vapor that the air can hold at a given temperature. The higher the humidity, the more water vapor is in the air.

Barrancabermeja, located in the Magdalena River Valley of Colombia, has a tropical savannah climate. This means that it is hot and humid all year round. The average annual temperature in Barrancabermeja is 28°C (82°F), and the average annual humidity is 75%. The humidity is highest during the rainy season, which runs from April to November. During this time, the humidity can reach up to 90%. The humidity can make it feel even hotter than it actually is. For example, when the temperature is 30°C (86°F) and the humidity is 75%, it can feel like 35°C (95°F).

The high humidity in Barrancabermeja can cause a number of health problems, including heat rash, prickly heat, and dehydration. It can also make it difficult to breathe, especially for people with asthma or other respiratory problems. If you are traveling to Barrancabermeja, it is important to take precautions to avoid these health problems. These precautions include drinking plenty of fluids, wearing loose, lightweight clothing, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

Wind Patterns in Barrancabermeja, Colombia

Barrancabermeja, Colombia experiences distinct wind patterns throughout the year. During the dry season, which spans from December to March, strong trade winds dominate the region. These winds blow from the northeast, bringing cool, dry air to the city. The average wind speed during this period ranges between 15-20 miles per hour, with gusts occasionally exceeding 30 miles per hour. The dry season winds contribute to the formation of high-pressure systems over the region, which prevent rainfall and maintain clear skies.

In contrast, during the wet season, which lasts from April to November, Barrancabermeja experiences weaker and more variable winds. The trade winds diminish in intensity, and local breezes and convective currents become more prevalent. Winds during this season are predominantly southerly and southwesterly, as moist air from the Amazon rainforest flows into the region. The average wind speed during the wet season drops to around 10-15 miles per hour, with occasional periods of stronger gusts associated with thunderstorms. These wet season winds contribute to the formation of clouds and precipitation, bringing abundant rainfall to the city.

Best Time to Visit

Barrancabermeja, located in northeastern Colombia, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. The city generally enjoys warm weather, with average temperatures ranging between 25-30°C (77-86°F). However, there are two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to March) and the wet season (April to November).

Dry Season

The dry season, also known as summer, offers the most pleasant weather for visiting Barrancabermeja. Rainfall is minimal during this period, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Clear skies provide ample sunshine, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and attractions without having to worry about getting rained out. Additionally, the lower humidity levels create a more comfortable environment for walking and sightseeing.

Solar Energy Potential

Barrancabermeja, a city in northeastern Colombia, boasts exceptional solar energy potential. The region receives an average of 5-6 peak sunlight hours per day throughout the year, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar power. The consistent sunshine, combined with the availability of large tracts of land, has positioned Barrancabermeja as a prime candidate for solar energy development.

Solar Initiatives and Projects

Recognizing its solar potential, Barrancabermeja has embraced various initiatives to promote solar energy adoption. The city has implemented net metering policies, allowing residents to connect their solar systems to the grid and sell excess energy back to utilities. Additionally, the Colombian government has provided incentives for solar projects through tax breaks and subsidies. As a result, several commercial and industrial solar projects have been established in and around Barrancabermeja, contributing to the city’s clean energy transition.

Geology

Barrancabermeja, Colombia, lies within the Magdalena River Valley, a vast lowland region characterized by alluvial plains, floodplains, and swamps. The valley is bordered by the Cordillera Oriental (Eastern Range) to the east and the Cordillera Central (Central Range) to the west, both part of the Andean mountain system. The city itself is situated on a floodplain formed by theMagdalena River, which flows through the valley from south to north. The underlying geology of the region consists primarily of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and limestone, which were deposited during the Cretaceous and Tertiary periods. These sediments have been folded and faulted over time, creating a complex geological landscape.

Geomorphology

The topography of Barrancabermeja is influenced by both its geological structure and past climatic conditions. The Magdalena River Valley has been shaped by erosion and deposition over millions of years. The river has created a series of terraces and floodplains along its course, while the surrounding mountains have been eroded by glaciers and rivers. The result is a relatively flat landscape with gently rolling hills and valleys. However, there are also some areas of rugged topography, such as the Serrania de San Lucas, a range of hills that lies to the east of the city. The geomorphology of the region has played a significant role in the development of Barrancabermeja, as the flatlands have allowed for extensive agriculture and the development of infrastructure, while the hills and mountains have provided resources for mining and other industries.

Yariguíes Airport (EJA)

Yariguíes Airport (EJA), also known as Barrancabermeja Airport, is the primary airport serving the city of Barrancabermeja in Colombia. It is located approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city center. The airport has one runway, designated 06/24, which measures 1,800 meters (5,906 feet) in length. Yariguíes Airport offers scheduled commercial flights to Bogotá, Medellín, and Bucaramanga. Several airlines serve the airport, including Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and EasyFly.

Additional Information

Yariguíes Airport is a relatively small airport, but it plays a vital role in the transportation system of Barrancabermeja and the surrounding region. The airport has a modern passenger terminal with basic amenities such as check-in counters, security screening, and a waiting area. There are also several car rental companies operating at the airport. Yariguíes Airport is conveniently connected to the city center by public transportation, including buses and taxis. In addition to commercial flights, the airport also handles private and charter flights.

History and Culture of Barrancabermeja

Barrancabermeja, a city in northeastern Colombia, boasts a rich history dating back to the pre-Colombian era. The region was inhabited by indigenous tribes, and its strategic location on the Magdalena River made it a crucial trade route. During the 20th century, Barrancabermeja experienced a boom with the discovery of petroleum reserves, leading to the establishment of the city’s large oil refinery. The city also became a melting pot of cultures, as workers from various parts of Colombia and the world flocked to the area in search of opportunities. Today, Barrancabermeja preserves its cultural heritage through its historic buildings, museums, and traditional festivals that celebrate the region’s folklore and music.

Economy and Infrastructure

Barrancabermeja’s economy is heavily reliant on the oil industry, with the city housing one of the largest refineries in South America. The refinery, operated by Ecopetrol, employs a significant portion of the city’s workforce and contributes to the region’s economic development. However, the economy has also diversified in recent years, with the growth of sectors such as tourism, transportation, and food processing. Barrancabermeja has a well-developed infrastructure, including a modern transportation network connecting it to major cities within Colombia and beyond. The city also has a strong educational system, with several universities and colleges offering a range of academic programs. Barrancabermeja has made significant investments in healthcare, providing its citizens with access to modern medical facilities and services.