Campos Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Climate

Campos is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, featuring hot and humid summers with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) and mild winters with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F). The Köppen climate classification for Campos is Cwa, indicating a tropical climate with dry winters. The driest month is July, with only 40mm of rainfall, while the wettest month is December, with 160mm of rainfall.

Average Weather Year Round

January and February are the warmest months with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F). March to May still experience high temperatures, but humidity levels start to increase, making the weather feel more uncomfortable. June to August bring cooler temperatures, with an average of 22°C (72°F). September to November are transition months with increasing temperatures and humidity. December is typically the wettest month, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms.

Campos, Brazil: Temperature Averages

Campos, Brazil, experiences subtropical highland climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is approximately 23°C (73°F). The warmest months are December through February, with average temperatures ranging from 25-27°C (77-81°F). During these months, the city receives heavy rainfall, contributing to the high humidity levels.

In contrast, the coolest months are June through August, when average temperatures drop to 18-20°C (64-68°F). While rainfall is still prevalent during this period, it is less intense. The city experiences mild to warm temperatures throughout the year, with occasional cold fronts bringing brief drops in temperature during the winter months. Overall, Campos’s climate is pleasant and offers a balance of warm and cool weather.

Cloud Formation

Campos is a city in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, known for its flat terrain and coastal location. The clouds that form over Campos are influenced by a combination of local factors, including sea breezes, air humidity, and the presence of mountains. Cumulus clouds are the most common type of cloud in Campos, characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance. These clouds are typically formed by rising air currents, which condense water vapor into tiny water droplets. During the afternoon hours, when temperatures are highest, thermals, or columns of rising warm air, become more common. As these thermals rise, they can create towering cumulus clouds that may develop into more vertically developed clouds, known as cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce showers or thunderstorms.

Cloud Patterns

Campos is located near the Atlantic Ocean, and the influence of sea breezes contributes to the formation of clouds. Sea breezes are created when the land heats up more quickly than the ocean during the day, creating a pressure gradient that causes air to move from the cooler ocean towards the warmer land. As this air moves inland, it picks up moisture from the ocean and can form clouds as it rises over the land. The presence of mountains to the west of Campos also affects cloud patterns. These mountains force air to rise, which can lead to the formation of clouds and precipitation on the windward side of the mountains. On the leeward side of the mountains, where the air descends, clouds are less likely to form, resulting in a drier climate.

Annual Distribution of Precipitation

Campos, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year. The annual precipitation averages between 1,200 and 1,600 millimeters (47-63 inches), distributed relatively evenly across the months. However, there is a slight variation in rainfall patterns, with a wetter period from October to March and a drier period from June to September. The wettest months are December and January, when monthly precipitation can reach or exceed 200 millimeters (8 inches). In contrast, the driest months are July and August, with average rainfall of around 50 millimeters (2 inches).

Causes of Precipitation

The primary cause of precipitation in Campos is the convergence of moist air masses from both the Atlantic Ocean and the Amazon Basin. These air masses collide and rise, causing condensation and subsequent rainfall. The topography of the region also plays a role, as the Serra do Mar mountain range to the east forces the air to rise, resulting in increased precipitation on the eastern slopes. Additionally, the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean contributes to the city’s humid climate and provides a constant source of moisture for rainfall. The presence of vegetation, such as the Atlantic Forest, also helps to increase local humidity and promote rainfall.

Climate Data for Campos, Brazil

Campos dos Goytacazes, a city located in the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, experiences a humid subtropical climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual precipitation in Campos is approximately 1,200 millimeters. The city experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the wet season spanning from October to March and the dry season from April to September. During the wet season, rainfall is frequent and often heavy, with thunderstorms and occasional flooding. In contrast, the dry season is characterized by less frequent but still significant rainfall, contributing to the city’s overall humidity.

Rainfall Patterns

The monthly distribution of rainfall in Campos exhibits seasonal variation. The wettest months are January, February, and March, with average precipitation exceeding 200 millimeters each. During these months, it is common for the city to experience prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, leading to increased risk of flooding and landslides. The driest months are June, July, and August, with average precipitation below 100 millimeters. However, even during the dry season, rainfall can occur sporadically, maintaining the city’s humid climate and lush vegetation. Campos’s rainfall patterns are influenced by various factors, including its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which provides moisture, and the prevailing wind patterns that bring moisture-laden air to the region.

Historical Event

The occurrence of snowfall in Campos, Brazil, is an extremely rare and unprecedented meteorological event. Campos is a city located in the southeastern region of Brazil, where tropical weather conditions prevail year-round. Temperatures typically range from warm to hot, with average annual rainfall.

2013 Snowfall

On July 25, 2013, Campos experienced an extraordinary weather phenomenon. A cold front from the Antarctic surged across the southern regions of Brazil, bringing with it freezing temperatures and blizzard-like conditions. As the front moved northward, it encountered warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique environment for snowfall. The resulting meteorological phenomenon, known as a snow squall, led to a brief but intense snowfall in Campos. Locals were astonished as snow covered the streets and cars. The event lasted for approximately 30 minutes, leaving behind a thin layer of snow before melting away.

Sun Exposure in Campos, Brazil

Campos, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with ample sunshine throughout the year. The city receives an average of 2,500 hours of sunlight annually, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. The sun’s intensity is strongest between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. During these hours, it is essential to protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and seeking shade.

Health Benefits of Sunlight

While excessive sun exposure can be harmful, controlled exposure to sunlight provides several health benefits. It is a primary source of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Sunlight exposure also boosts serotonin levels, which enhances mood and well-being. Moderate sun exposure can improve skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. However, it is essential to note that overexposure to sunlight can lead to sunburns, skin cancer, and other health risks.

Moon Phase and Visibility in Campos, Brazil:

The Moon’s appearance and visibility in Campos, Brazil, vary throughout the lunar cycle. The full Moon, a mesmerizing silver orb, typically reaches its peak illumination around midnight. During this phase, the Moon casts a brilliant glow across the night sky, illuminating the landscape with a soft, ethereal light. The waning Moon, a celestial crescent, becomes visible around sunset and remains low in the western sky until it sets in the early evening. The waxing Moon, on the other hand, rises in the east around midnight and gradually increases in size and brightness as it approaches the full Moon.

Lunar Impact on Campos:

The Moon’s gravitational pull exerts a subtle but influential impact on Campos. The tides in the nearby Atlantic Ocean are influenced by the Moon’s position, with high tides occurring approximately every 12 hours. These tidal forces affect the fishing industry and coastal ecosystems. Additionally, the Moon’s presence influences human activities in Campos. The changing moonlight phases have traditionally been used to guide agricultural practices, religious ceremonies, and social events. In modern times, the Moon remains an object of fascination and inspiration for artists, photographers, and stargazers in Campos. Its ethereal beauty and celestial rhythms continue to captivate the imagination and connect people to the celestial realm.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Campos, Brazil experiences notable seasonal variations in humidity levels. The wet season, from December through March, is characterized by high humidity, which can reach up to 90% during the peak of the rainy period. The average relative humidity during these months typically ranges between 75-85%. During the dry season, from April through November, humidity levels decrease significantly, dropping to around 50-65%. The lowest humidity values are usually observed during the cooler months of July and August, when the skies are generally clearer and there is less precipitation.

Diurnal Variations in Humidity

In addition to seasonal variations, humidity levels in Campos also exhibit diurnal patterns. During the day, when the air temperature is higher, the humidity tends to be lower. This is because warm air can hold more moisture than cold air. As the day progresses and the air cools down, the relative humidity typically increases. Peak humidity levels often occur during the early morning hours, when temperatures are at their lowest and the air is saturated with moisture.

Wind Characteristics

The wind patterns in Campos, Brazil, are influenced by its location within the Atlantic Forest biome. During the summer months (December to March), trade winds prevail from the southeast, carrying warm and humid air inland. These winds can reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour (25 miles per hour) and cause occasional showers. In the winter months (June to August), the dominant winds shift to the north, bringing drier and cooler air from the interior. The average wind speed during this time is around 20 kilometers per hour (12 miles per hour).

Impact on Climate and Vegetation

The prevailing winds play a significant role in shaping the local climate and vegetation. The warm and humid winds from the southeast during the summer contribute to Campos’ subtropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and abundant rainfall. This climate supports a diverse array of plant species, including various trees, shrubs, and vines. The drier and cooler winds from the north during the winter help to maintain the region’s unique Atlantic Forest ecosystem, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The wind patterns also influence the distribution of precipitation, with the summer months experiencing higher rainfall due to the moisture carried by the trade winds.

Summer (December to March):
Campos, Brazil, enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. Summer is the hottest and rainiest season, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C. While this time offers plenty of sunshine for beach activities, the heavy rainfall can make outdoor excursions less enjoyable. However, if you’re looking for lush greenery and vibrant nature, summer is an ideal time to visit Campos.

Spring and Autumn (September to November and April to June):
Spring and autumn are milder months in Campos, with pleasant temperatures between 19°C and 25°C. The rainfall is significantly reduced during these shoulder seasons, making them ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Visitors can enjoy the city’s beaches, natural attractions, and cultural events without the crowds and humidity of the summer season. Spring and autumn offer a perfect balance of warm weather and comfortable humidity levels, making them the best time to experience Campos’ diverse offerings.

Solar Potential and Installations

Campos, Brazil, situated in the state of Rio de Janeiro, boasts significant solar energy potential due to its ample sunshine hours and strategic location. The city’s annual solar radiation averages 5.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter (kWh/m2) per day, making it an attractive destination for solar installations. Recognizing this potential, Campos has invested heavily in developing its solar infrastructure, hosting numerous solar farms and rooftop installations. As of 2022, the city’s installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity exceeded 60 megawatts (MW), contributing to its clean energy portfolio.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The adoption of solar energy in Campos has brought about substantial economic and environmental benefits. Solar power plants have created job opportunities in the renewable energy sector, while rooftop solar systems have reduced grid dependence and lowered electricity costs for households and businesses. Additionally, the transition to solar energy has significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the city’s carbon footprint. By harnessing the power of the sun, Campos has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship, paving the way for a cleaner and more prosperous future.

Relief of the Campos Basin Region

The topography of Campos, Brazil, is characterized by a series of parallel mountain ranges and valleys that extend from the coast inland. The landscape is dominated by the Serra do Mar, a coastal range that runs along the Atlantic coast. The Serra do Mar is composed of a series of steep, rugged mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters. To the west of the Serra do Mar lies the Serra da Mantiqueira, another mountain range that runs parallel to the coast. The Serra da Mantiqueira is lower in elevation than the Serra do Mar, with peaks ranging from 500 to 1,000 meters. Between the Serra do Mar and the Serra da Mantiqueira lies the Campos Basin, a lowland area that is home to a number of rivers and lakes.

Coastal and Inland Plains

In addition to the mountain ranges and valleys, the Campos region also includes a number of coastal and inland plains. The coastal plains are located along the Atlantic coast and are characterized by low-lying, sandy areas. The inland plains are located between the mountain ranges and are characterized by gently rolling hills and valleys. The inland plains are home to a number of agricultural areas, as well as a number of cities and towns. The Campos region is a major agricultural area, producing a wide variety of crops, including coffee, sugarcane, and rice. The region is also home to a number of oil and gas fields, which have contributed to the region’s economic development.

Nearest Airport in Campos, Brazil

The nearest airport to Campos, Brazil, is Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport (BPS), located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from the city center. The airport is served by Azul Brazilian Airlines and offers flights to major cities in Brazil, including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Belo Horizonte. The airport has a single runway and a small terminal with limited facilities.

Campos is also served by the Galeão International Airport (GIG) in Rio de Janeiro, which is approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles) away. GIG offers a wider range of domestic and international flights, including connections to major hubs in Europe, North America, and South America. However, due to the distance from Campos, it is generally more convenient to use Bartolomeu Lisandro Airport for short-distance travel within Brazil.

History and Culture

Campos dos Goytacazes, located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has a rich history and vibrant cultural heritage. It was founded in 1677 by Portuguese settlers and played a pivotal role in the sugar and coffee industries during the colonial era. Campos is renowned for its traditional Samba and Bossa Nova music, which are integral parts of the city’s identity. The city also boasts several historical landmarks, including the Church of Nossa Senhora da Penha, which dates back to the 18th century, and the Campos Municipal Museum, which showcases its cultural history.

Economy and Infrastructure

Campos has a diversified economy that includes various industries such as oil and gas, agro-industry, and tourism. The city is home to the Campos Basin, one of Brazil’s largest oil-producing regions. Campos also serves as a major agricultural center, particularly for sugar, coffee, and rice production. The city has a well-developed infrastructure, including an international airport, seaport, and a modern highway network that connects it to other parts of the state and the country. Campos offers a range of educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and cultural venues, contributing to its overall livability.