Belem Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Average Temperatures and Precipitation

Belém, Brazil experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high temperatures year-round and abundant rainfall during the monsoon season. The average annual temperature is a warm 27.5°C (81.5°F), with little variation throughout the year. The warmest months are October to March, with average temperatures reaching 28-29°C (82-84°F). The coolest months are June to September, with average temperatures dipping to around 26°C (79°F).

Rainfall is heavy and concentrated during the monsoon season, which typically runs from January to June. The city receives an average of 2,840 millimeters (111.8 inches) of annual rainfall, with the wettest months being March and April when over 500 millimeters (20 inches) of rain can fall. During the dry season, from July to December, rainfall is significantly reduced, and the city experiences a warm and sunny climate with occasional showers.

Monthly Average Temperature

Belém, the capital of Pará state in northern Brazil, experiences a tropical rainforest climate. The city’s average temperature throughout the year is 26.6°C (79.9°F), with little variation between months. The warmest months are October and November, with average temperatures reaching 28°C (82.4°F). The coolest months are June and July, with average temperatures dropping to 25°C (77°F).

Rainfall and Humidity

Belem is known for its heavy rainfall, with an average of 2,994 mm (117.9 in) annually. The rainy season typically lasts from December to May, while the dry season occurs from June to November. During the rainy season, the city experiences frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The average relative humidity in Belém is around 80%, making the climate feel muggy and uncomfortable at times.

Cloud Patterns

Belem, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season (December to May), the city is characterized by frequent rainfall and abundant cloud cover. The clouds are often dense and low-lying, with cumulonimbus and nimbostratus clouds being common. These clouds can produce heavy showers and thunderstorms.

During the dry season (June to November), cloud cover in Belem is generally less prevalent. However, high-altitude cirrus clouds and scattered cumulus clouds can still be observed. These clouds are typically thin and wispy, allowing for clear skies and ample sunshine. During this time, Belem experiences more stable weather patterns with less frequent precipitation. However, occasional cold fronts can move through the region, bringing with them increased cloudiness and the potential for rain.

Seasonal Distribution of Precipitation

Belem, Brazil, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from December to May, while the dry season spans from June to November. During the rainy season, precipitation is abundant, with monthly averages ranging from 250 to 400 mm. The peak rainfall occurs in January, when the city receives an average of 350 mm of rain. In contrast, the dry season is considerably drier, with monthly rainfall often dipping below 50 mm. During this time, the city experiences extended periods of little to no precipitation.

Annual Precipitation and Climate Variability

On average, Belem receives about 3000 mm of precipitation annually, making it one of the wettest cities in Brazil. The variability in annual precipitation is relatively low, with most years receiving between 2500 and 3500 mm. However, occasional years can deviate significantly from this average. For instance, during the 1997-98 El Niño event, Belem experienced abnormally high rainfall, with the annual precipitation exceeding 4000 mm. In contrast, during the 2020-21 La Niña event, the city received below-average rainfall, resulting in an annual precipitation of around 2000 mm. These variations in precipitation are influenced by global climate patterns, such as El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO).

Annual Rainfall Distribution

Belem, Brazil, experiences a tropical rainforest climate characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The city receives an average of 2,843 millimeters (111.9 inches) of rain annually, with a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season typically spans from November to May, coinciding with the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) displacement towards the Southern Hemisphere. During these months, heavy downpours and thunderstorms are frequent, resulting in significant rainfall accumulations.

Contrastingly, the dry season from June to October witnesses a notable decrease in precipitation. While rainfall still occurs, its frequency and intensity are much lower than during the wet season. This variability in rainfall distribution is primarily attributed to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, including the weakening of the trade winds and the southward displacement of the ITCZ. Consequently, Belem’s drier months experience less cloud cover and more sunshine, leading to warmer and more humid conditions.

Historical Occurrence and Causes

Snowfall in Belém, Brazil, is an extremely rare meteorological phenomenon that has only occurred a handful of times in recorded history. The city is located in the northern part of Brazil, which lies within the tropics and experiences a warm and humid climate. The absence of freezing temperatures and the presence of the warm waters of the Amazon River make snowfall highly unlikely. However, on rare occasions, when cold fronts from the south push northward and encounter favorable atmospheric conditions, precipitation in the form of snow can occur.

Recent Snowfall Event

The most recent snowfall event in Belém occurred on July 23, 1994. An intense cold front descended upon the northern coast of Brazil, bringing with it freezing temperatures and moisture. As the front moved over Belém, a combination of heavy rain and sleet turned into light snowfall. The snowfall lasted for approximately 20 minutes, covering the streets and vegetation with a thin layer of white. The city was at a standstill as residents rushed outside to witness and capture the unusual spectacle. The event was widely reported by local and international media, and it remains a fascinating historical footnote in the city’s history.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Belem, Brazil

The sunrise and sunset times in Belem, Brazil, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun. During the summer months (December to February), the Sun rises earlier and sets later, providing longer daylight hours. The approximate sunrise time in January is around 5:45 AM, while the sunset time is approximately 6:45 PM, resulting in around 13 hours of daylight.

During the winter months (June to August), the Sun rises later and sets earlier, leading to shorter daylight hours. The approximate sunrise time in July is around 6:30 AM, and the sunset time is approximately 5:30 PM, resulting in only about 11 hours of daylight. The exact sunrise and sunset times can vary slightly from day to day and year to year due to astronomical factors such as the Earth’s elliptical orbit and the tilt of its axis.

Solar Radiation in Belem, Brazil

Belem, Brazil, receives consistently high levels of solar radiation throughout the year due to its location near the equator. The average daily solar radiation ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter (kWh/m2), with higher values during the summer months and slightly lower values during the winter months. This abundant solar radiation makes Belem an ideal location for solar energy generation and other applications that rely on sunlight.

Moon’s Influence on Tides and Water Bodies

The gravitational pull of the moon, particularly during full and new moons, causes significant tidal fluctuations in the Amazon River and other water bodies in Belém. These tidal variations are crucial for the region’s ecosystem, facilitating the migration of aquatic species, such as fish and dolphins. The tidal currents influence the distribution of nutrients and sediment, shaping the habitats and biodiversity of the marine environment.

Astronomical and Cultural Significance

Belém offers excellent opportunities for observing the moon’s movement and celestial events. The moonlight creates a captivating atmosphere, casting an ethereal glow over the city’s skyline and adding an enchanting dimension to the urban landscape. The moon also plays a cultural role, as its phases have guided indigenous communities for centuries, influencing their calendar, rituals, and agricultural practices. Local traditions incorporate moon-related events and symbolism, connecting the people of Belém to the celestial rhythms and the natural cycles of the environment.

Seasonal Patterns

Belem, Brazil experiences high humidity throughout the year, with an average annual relative humidity of around 80%. During the rainy season, which typically lasts from January to May, humidity levels soar, often reaching 90% or more. Conversely, during the dry season from June to December, humidity decreases slightly but remains relatively high, averaging around 75%.

Influence on Climate

The high humidity in Belem contributes to the city’s warm and humid climate. The combination of high temperatures and humidity creates a muggy and uncomfortable feeling, especially during the summer months. This humidity also influences the amount of rainfall the city receives, as it aids in the formation of clouds and precipitation. The high humidity levels throughout the year result in Belem having an equatorial climate with abundant rainfall and little temperature variation.

Wind Patterns and Climate Impact

Belem, located in the northern Brazilian state of Pará, experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by abundant rainfall and relatively high humidity throughout the year. The prevailing winds in Belem are easterly trade winds that blow from the Atlantic Ocean towards the interior of South America. These trade winds are responsible for bringing moisture-laden air from the ocean, resulting in the frequent precipitation that defines Belem’s weather patterns.

During the rainy season, which typically lasts from December to May, the trade winds are particularly strong and persistent. This leads to increased precipitation and humidity, making the atmosphere feel warm and oppressive. In contrast, during the dry season (June-November), the trade winds weaken, leading to a decrease in rainfall, lower humidity, and more comfortable temperatures.

Best time to visit Belem

The best time to visit Belem, Brazil, is during the dry season, which runs from June to November. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius (79 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). There is very little rainfall during the dry season, so you can enjoy all that Belem has to offer without having to worry about getting caught in a downpour.

The city comes alive during the dry season, with many festivals and events taking place. In June, the Belem Food Festival showcases the city’s diverse cuisine, while the July Círio de Nazaré festival is one of the largest religious festivals in the world. In August, the Pará Music Festival celebrates the region’s music and culture, and in September, the Belem International Book Fair attracts book lovers from all over the world.

Solar Energy Potential

Belém, the capital city of the state of Pará in northern Brazil, enjoys a favorable climate for solar energy production. Blessed with abundant sunshine throughout the year, Belém has an average global horizontal irradiance (GHI) of over 5 kWh/m2/day, indicating its high potential for solar energy generation. The city experiences a bimodal rainy season, with two distinct periods of heavy precipitation. Despite these seasonal changes, Belém’s solar irradiance remains relatively stable, making it an attractive location for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Solar Energy Development

The development of solar energy in Belém has been steadily increasing in recent years. The city government has implemented policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources, including solar PV. The installation of rooftop solar systems has become increasingly common, with residential, commercial, and industrial buildings utilizing this clean energy source. Additionally, utility-scale solar PV plants have been established in the outskirts of the city, contributing to Belém’s overall energy mix. The growth in solar energy generation has helped to diversify Belém’s energy sources, reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, and promote environmental sustainability.

Topography of Belém, Brazil

Belém, the capital of Pará state in northern Brazil, is located on the Guajará Bay, where the Pará and Guamá rivers meet. The city’s low-lying terrain, with an average elevation of only 10 meters above sea level, makes it vulnerable to flooding. The Guamá River, which flows through the heart of the city, has historically caused frequent flooding, especially during the rainy season. To mitigate this risk, extensive flood control systems have been implemented, including canals, levees, and pumping stations.

The topography of Belém also features rolling hills and plateaus to the east and north of the city. The Serrinha plateau, located to the east, is home to the city’s commercial and residential districts. The Guamá plateau, to the north, is a higher elevation area that offers panoramic views of the city and the Guajará Bay. These plateaus provide a natural barrier against flooding from the rivers and also serve as valuable recreational areas. The contrast between the low-lying areas and the elevated plateaus creates a diverse and visually appealing urban landscape.

Val de Cans International Airport (BEL)

Val de Cans International Airport (IATA: BEL, ICAO: SBBE) is the main airport serving Belém, Brazil. It is located 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the city center and is named after the Val-de-Cans neighborhood where it is located. The airport has one runway, which is 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) long. Val de Cans International Airport is served by a number of domestic and international airlines, including Azul Brazilian Airlines, GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, LATAM Airlines Brazil, and TAP Air Portugal. The airport is also a hub for Azul Brazilian Airlines.

In 2018, Val de Cans International Airport handled over 3 million passengers. The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion project, which is expected to be completed in 2022. The expansion project will include the construction of a new terminal, a new runway, and a new air traffic control tower. The expansion project is expected to increase the airport’s capacity to 6 million passengers per year.

History and Architecture

Belém, nestled at the mouth of the Amazon River, is a city steeped in history and architectural wonders. Founded by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, Belém played a pivotal role as the gateway to the Amazon region. Many of its historic buildings, including the imposing Forte do Presépio and the elegant Ver-o-Peso Market, still stand today, showcasing the city’s rich past. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Estação das Docas, a former port transformed into a vibrant cultural hub featuring shops, restaurants, and the Pará State Museum.

Culture and Attractions

Belém boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with a diverse range of attractions catering to all tastes. The city’s museums offer insights into its history and natural wonders, including the Museu do Pará, which houses a vast collection of Amazonian artifacts. Belém is also home to several theaters and concert halls, hosting performances by local and international artists. For nature enthusiasts, the Parque Mangal das Garças, a verdant sanctuary, provides a glimpse into the unique flora and fauna of the Amazon estuary. The Mercado Ver-o-Peso, a bustling market, is a must-visit for experiencing the vibrant local flavors and scents.