Caraguatatuba Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Summer

Caraguatatuba experiences a hot and humid summer from December to March. During these months, average temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F), with high humidity levels that often make it feel even warmer. Rainfall is common during the summer, with frequent thunderstorms and a monthly average precipitation of around 170mm (6.7 inches). Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny days, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

Winter

The winter in Caraguatatuba, from June to September, is mild and dry. Temperatures average between 18°C (64°F) and 25°C (77°F), with much lower humidity than during the summer months. Rainfall is infrequent during this time, with an average monthly precipitation of around 50mm (2 inches). The weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and occasional light winds. It’s an excellent time for visitors who prefer cooler temperatures and less rain for exploring the area’s natural attractions.

Average Temperature in Caraguatatuba, Brazil

Caraguatatuba, a coastal city in southeastern Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. The city is characterized by its warm and humid summers and mild winters. On average, the city enjoys daily highs ranging from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius (79 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius (64 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit).

The warmest months in Caraguatatuba are January and February, during which temperatures can reach a maximum of 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). Conversely, the coldest months are June and July, with average lows dipping to 16 degrees Celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it’s worth noting that these seasonal variations are not extreme, and the city maintains a pleasant climate year-round, making it an attractive destination for tourists and residents alike. The consistent temperatures provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and beach activities throughout the year.

Cloud Patterns and Characteristics

Caraguatatuba, Brazil experiences a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The clouds that form over the region exhibit diverse patterns and characteristics, reflecting the dynamic nature of the atmospheric conditions. Cumulus clouds, with their distinct cotton-like appearance, are commonly observed during the morning and afternoon. As the day progresses, these clouds may develop vertically into towering cumulonimbus clouds, potentially bringing thunderstorms with heavy rain and lightning. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, often appear at high altitudes and can indicate fair weather or the approach of a cold front.

Cloud Formation and Dispersal

The formation and dispersal of clouds in Caraguatatuba are primarily driven by the interplay of temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. Rising air parcels, fueled by solar heating, cool and condense, forming visible clouds. The humidity and temperature of the air determine the type and altitude of clouds formed. Clouds that appear higher in the sky are generally composed of ice crystals, while those closer to the surface are composed of water droplets. The dispersal of clouds is influenced by wind patterns and changes in temperature and humidity over time.

Annual Precipitation:

Caraguatatuba, a coastal city in Brazil, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by abundant precipitation. The annual rainfall averages around 2,200 millimeters (87 inches). The wet season typically lasts from October to March, during which heavy rains and occasional thunderstorms are common. The dry season, from April to September, is generally drier, with less frequent and intense rainfall events.

Seasonal Variations:

The distribution of precipitation in Caraguatatuba follows a seasonal pattern. During the wet season, rainfall is more frequent and intense, with monthly averages exceeding 200 millimeters (8 inches). The peak of the wet season occurs in January and February, which often receive over 300 millimeters (12 inches) of rainfall. In contrast, during the dry season, rainfall is significantly less, with monthly averages dropping below 100 millimeters (4 inches). The driest months are usually June and July, which receive less than 50 millimeters (2 inches) of precipitation.

Monthly Rainfall Distribution

Caraguatatuba experiences a highly seasonal rainfall pattern, with a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season stretches from October to March and accounts for over 80% of the annual precipitation. During this period, monthly rainfall typically exceeds 200 mm, with January and February receiving the highest amounts, averaging over 300 mm each. Conversely, the dry season from April to September is characterized by significantly less rainfall, with monthly totals often below 50 mm. June and July are the driest months, with average rainfall of only 20-30 mm.

Annual Variability and Historical Trends

The annual rainfall in Caraguatatuba exhibits considerable variability from year to year. The annual total can range widely, with some years receiving over 2,500 mm of rainfall while others receive less than 1,500 mm. This variability is primarily driven by fluctuations in the intensity and frequency of rainfall during the wet season. Long-term rainfall records indicate that there has been a slight upward trend in annual rainfall over the past few decades. However, this trend is not statistically significant, and it is too early to determine whether it represents a genuine change in climate or simply a natural fluctuation.

Snowfall in Caraguatatuba: A Rare Phenomenon

On July 25, 2021, the coastal city of Caraguatatuba, located in southeastern Brazil, experienced a rare and unprecedented snowfall. The snow, which fell for several hours, was reported in the highlands of the city, at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level. This remarkable event left residents and visitors alike in awe, as snowfall is an extremely uncommon occurrence in Brazil’s tropical climate.

Meteorologists attributed the snowfall to a rare combination of cold air from the Antarctic meeting warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean. As the temperatures dropped below freezing and the moisture in the air condensed, it formed snowflakes that fell over the higher elevations of Caraguatatuba. The snow covered the landscape in a thin layer, creating a surreal winter wonderland in the midst of a tropical city. The snowfall brought joy and excitement to the community, as people reveled in the unusual experience and captured the moment with their cameras.

Climate and Weather

Caraguatatuba, a coastal city in southeastern Brazil, enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and warm, dry winters. The presence of the Atlantic Ocean exerts a significant influence on the local weather, moderating temperatures and providing frequent rainfall. During the summer months (December to March), temperatures average around 26-30°C (79-86°F), with high humidity levels. The rainy season typically extends from October to March, and precipitation can be heavy at times, particularly during the afternoon. Winter temperatures range from 16-22°C (61-72°F), with less humidity and rainfall. The driest months are from June to September.

Sun Exposure

Caraguatatuba is renowned for its beautiful beaches and abundant sunshine. The city receives an average of 2,000 to 2,500 hours of sunshine annually, making it a popular destination for sunseekers. While the sun is generally strong throughout the year, it is particularly intense during the summer months. It is essential to take precautions to avoid sunburn and other harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses is highly recommended, especially during the peak sunshine hours from 10 am to 4 pm.

Moonrise and Moonset in Caraguatatuba, Brazil

The moon’s appearance in Caraguatatuba, Brazil, varies significantly throughout the lunar cycle. During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible from Earth, and the night sky is dark. As the moon waxes, it gradually becomes more visible, reaching its full phase around two weeks after the new moon. During the full moon, the entire face of the moon is illuminated by sunlight, and it appears as a large, bright circle in the sky.

As the moon wanes, it gradually loses its illumination, until it finally reaches the new moon phase again. The exact timing of the moonrise and moonset in Caraguatatuba depends on the time of year and the day of the lunar cycle. However, generally speaking, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, and it is typically visible for several hours each night.

Moon Phases and Tides in Caraguatatuba, Brazil

The different phases of the moon have a significant impact on the tides in Caraguatatuba, Brazil. During the new moon and full moon phases, the gravitational pull of the sun and moon combine to create higher-than-average tides, known as spring tides. These tides can be particularly strong in coastal areas, causing flooding in low-lying regions.

Conversely, during the first and third quarter moon phases, the gravitational pull of the sun and moon partially cancel each other out, resulting in lower-than-average tides, known as neap tides. During these times, the tides are less noticeable and do not typically cause any flooding or other issues. The timing of the tides in Caraguatatuba is influenced by both the moon’s phase and the local geography, and can vary from day to day.

Hourly Humidity Levels

The humidity levels in Caraguatatuba, Brazil, fluctuate throughout the day. During the early morning hours, the humidity is typically at its highest, often reaching 85-95%. As the day progresses, the humidity gradually decreases, reaching its lowest point in the late afternoon and early evening, when it can drop to around 55-65%. During the night, the humidity slowly rises again, preparing for the humid morning conditions.

Seasonal Humidity Trends

Caraguatatuba experiences distinct seasonal humidity patterns. The wet season, which runs from October to April, is characterized by higher humidity levels. During this time, the average relative humidity is typically around 75-85%. The humidity is particularly high during the summer months (January to March), when the combination of warm temperatures and frequent rainfall creates a humid environment. Conversely, the dry season, from May to September, brings drier conditions. The average relative humidity during this time is around 60-70%. The lowest humidity levels occur in the winter months (June to August), when the temperatures are cooler and rainfall is less frequent.

Wind Speed and Direction in Caraguatatuba, Brazil

Caraguatatuba, located on the northern coast of São Paulo state in Brazil, experiences consistent winds throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, due to the influence of the trade winds. During the summer months (December to March), these winds are typically stronger, with average speeds ranging from 15 to 20 knots (28 to 37 km/h). In the winter months (June to September), wind speeds tend to be lower, averaging around 10 to 15 knots (19 to 28 km/h).

The wind speed and direction in Caraguatatuba can vary significantly depending on the local topography and the time of day. The city is situated on a narrow peninsula, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra do Mar mountain range. The mountains can channel winds, creating stronger gusts in certain areas. Additionally, during the early morning hours, land breezes can develop, bringing cooler air from the land onto the water. These land breezes typically weaken by midday, as the sun heats the air over the land and the sea breezes begin to dominate.

Weather and Climate

Caraguatatuba, Brazil, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with year-round warm temperatures and abundant rainfall. The best time to visit for beach activities and outdoor adventures is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, temperatures average around 26-28°C (79-82°F), with low humidity levels and minimal rainfall. The clearer skies provide excellent visibility for enjoying the area’s beaches and exploring the surrounding rainforests.

Events and Festivals

If you wish to experience Caraguatatuba’s vibrant culture, consider visiting during January or February. During this time, the city hosts the renowned Caraguatatuba Summer Festival, featuring live music, cultural performances, and a lively carnival atmosphere. Alternatively, the Festival of the Sea in November offers a unique celebration of the city’s maritime heritage, with traditional fishing competitions, boat races, and cultural exhibits.

Solar Energy Potential

Caraguatatuba, Brazil, boasts an abundance of solar energy potential. Its average solar irradiation of approximately 5.5 kWh/m2 per day provides a significant opportunity for solar power generation. The city enjoys long hours of sunshine throughout the year, with an annual average of over 2,800 sunshine hours. This favorable solar climate makes Caraguatatuba an ideal location for the development of solar energy projects.

Solar Energy Development

Recognizing the potential, Caraguatatuba has taken steps to harness solar energy. The city has implemented policies to encourage the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and has established solar parks to generate renewable energy on a larger scale. Several private companies have also invested in solar energy projects, contributing to the growing solar industry in the region. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to reducing carbon emissions, Caraguatatuba is well-positioned to become a leader in solar energy development in Brazil.

Mountains and Forests

Caraguatatuba is nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, where lush green mountains meet the vibrant Atlantic Ocean. The Serra do Mar, a coastal mountain range, forms a dramatic backdrop to the city, creating a stunning contrast between the urban sprawl and the pristine wilderness. The mountains are covered in dense forests, home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Hiking trails wind through these forests, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding coastline.

Beaches and Lagoons

The coastline of Caraguatatuba is dotted with numerous beautiful beaches. Praia Martim de Sá, the main beach, boasts white sands and crystal-clear waters. Praia Brava, a smaller beach, is a popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding. Further north, Praia do Camaroeiro offers a tranquil setting, with calm waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. The city is also home to several lagoons, such as Lagoa Azul and Lagoa da Jureia, which provide opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other water-based activities. These bodies of water are surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

Ubatuba Airport (UBT)

Ubatuba Airport (UBT), also known as the Prof. Urbano Ernesto Stumpf Airport, is the closest airport to Caraguatatuba, Brazil. It is situated approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of the city center. The airport has one asphalt runway measuring 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) in length. It is primarily used for general aviation and regional commercial flights. Azul Brazilian Airlines operates regular flights to São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) and other destinations within Brazil. UBT also facilitates charter flights and private aircraft operations.

São José dos Campos Airport (SQJ)

Another nearby airport is São José dos Campos Airport (SQJ), located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) west of Caraguatatuba. It is a larger airport with two asphalt runways and serves both domestic and international flights. Airlines operating at SQJ include LATAM Airlines Brazil, Azul Brazilian Airlines, Gol Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, and Passaredo Linhas Aéreas. SQJ offers more flight options and connections to major cities in Brazil and other countries. However, it is important to note that it is slightly farther away from Caraguatatuba compared to Ubatuba Airport.

Natural Wonders

Caraguatatuba, nestled along Brazil’s picturesque São Paulo coast, boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors are greeted by a stunning coastline adorned with over 17 pristine beaches, each offering unique charms. One of the most popular is Martim de Sá, a haven for surfers with its consistent waves. Further north lies Brava Beach, a secluded paradise with sparkling turquoise waters and lush vegetation. The nearby Serra do Mar State Park invites hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore its verdant trails, home to an abundance of exotic flora and fauna.

Culture and History

Beyond its natural wonders, Caraguatatuba is steeped in rich history and culture. The city’s origins can be traced back to the indigenous Tupi-Guarani people, who inhabited the region. European settlers arrived in the 16th century, establishing a fishing village that eventually grew into a thriving port town. Caraguatatuba proudly preserves its past through its vibrant festivals and traditions. The annual Festa de São João (Feast of Saint John) draws crowds with its lively music, traditional dancing, and mouthwatering cuisine. The city’s churches, such as the Igreja Matriz de Santo Antônio, showcase the artistic and architectural heritage of Brazil’s colonial era.