Comayagua Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Honduras

Temperature and Humidity

Comayagua’s climate is characterized by a tropical savannah with well-defined wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature hovers around 28°C (82°F), with minimal temperature variations throughout the year. The warmest months are April and May, with average highs reaching 32°C (90°F), while the coolest months are January and February, with average lows of 21°C (70°F). Humidity levels remain relatively high throughout the year, with an average of around 70%, making the nights and early mornings feel muggy.

Rainfall and Sunshine

Comayagua experiences a distinct wet season that extends from May to October, which accounts for the majority of the annual rainfall. During this period, heavy downpours are common, with an average monthly rainfall exceeding 200mm (8 inches). The months of December and January are the driest, with average monthly rainfall of less than 50mm (2 inches). Comayagua receives around 1,200mm (47 inches) of rainfall annually. The city also enjoys an abundance of sunshine, averaging around 2,700 hours per year, with the wet season generally seeing less sunshine due to cloud cover.

Average Yearly Temperature

Comayagua, Honduras enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The average yearly temperature hovers around 26.1°C (79°F), with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The warmest months are April and May, with average temperatures reaching 28.9°C (84°F), while the coolest months are December and January, with average temperatures dipping slightly to 23.9°C (75°F).

Seasonal Temperature Variations

Comayagua experiences a pronounced wet season from May to October, during which heavy rainfall is common. The wet season also brings higher humidity and slightly lower temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from 25.6°C (78°F) in May to 27.8°C (82°F) in September. During the dry season, from November to April, rainfall is scarce, and the weather becomes drier and sunnier. Temperatures during the dry season are typically higher, ranging from 27.2°C (81°F) in November to 28.9°C (84°F) in April.

Cloud Formation and Types in Comayagua, Honduras

Comayagua, Honduras, experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year. This humid environment provides ideal conditions for cloud formation. The city lies within the Comayagua Valley, surrounded by mountains that contribute to the convective lifting of moist air. As the air rises, it cools, causing water vapor to condense and form clouds.

The clouds in Comayagua are diverse, ranging from low-level stratus clouds to high-altitude cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their white, puffy appearance, are commonly observed in the morning hours. As the day progresses and temperatures rise, these cumulus clouds may transform into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce thunderstorms. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, are thin and wispy and often appear at high altitudes. Altocumulus and altostratus clouds, found at intermediate altitudes, have a layered or sheet-like appearance.

Impact of Clouds on Comayagua’s Climate

Clouds play a crucial role in regulating Comayagua’s climate. They provide shade from the intense tropical sun, reducing surface temperatures. The water droplets or ice crystals in clouds can also reflect incoming solar radiation back into space, further contributing to cooling. Additionally, clouds act as a blanket, trapping heat near the ground at night. This insulating effect helps prevent extreme temperature fluctuations and contributes to the city’s warm and humid climate.

Furthermore, clouds are essential for precipitation. As moist air rises and cools, the water vapor condenses and forms clouds. If the clouds become saturated, the water droplets or ice crystals grow larger and eventually fall as rain, drizzle, or snow. Precipitation is vital for Comayagua’s agriculture, as it provides water for crops and vegetation.

Annual Precipitation and Distribution

Comayagua, Honduras, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by a distinct rainy season and a drier season. The annual precipitation in Comayagua varies between 600 and 1,200 millimeters (mm), with the majority falling during the rainy season, which lasts from May to October. During this period, frequent and heavy downpours can lead to localized flooding and tropical storms. The dry season, from November to April, receives significantly less precipitation, with occasional drizzle or light rainfall.

Impact on Local Agriculture and Water Resources

The seasonal precipitation in Comayagua plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s agricultural practices and water availability. During the rainy season, farmers can cultivate a variety of crops, including corn, beans, tomatoes, and various fruits. However, the heavy rainfall during this period can also damage crops and infrastructure, leading to crop losses and economic setbacks. Water scarcity is a concern during the dry season, as the limited rainfall can result in reduced water levels in reservoirs and rivers. This can impact water availability for drinking, irrigation, and other domestic purposes, necessitating water conservation measures and alternative water sources.

Rainfall Patterns and Variability

Comayagua, Honduras, experiences a distinct wet and dry seasonality in rainfall. During the wet season, from May to October, heavy rainfall is common, with an average of 150-250 mm per month. The highest rainfall occurs during June-August, contributing to the city’s lush vegetation and fertile soil. During the dry season, from November to April, rainfall decreases significantly, averaging less than 50 mm per month. This seasonal variation is influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which shifts north and south during the year, bringing moist air and precipitation to the region.

Extreme Rainfall Events

Comayagua is vulnerable to extreme rainfall events, particularly during the wet season. Tropical cyclones and intense thunderstorms can dump large amounts of rain in a short period, leading to flash flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. In 2020, Hurricane Eta caused severe flooding in Comayagua, displacing thousands of residents and causing extensive damage to homes and businesses. The city’s proximity to the Ulúa River further increases the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events. Climate change is projected to intensify the frequency and severity of extreme rainfall in the region, posing a significant threat to the city’s infrastructure and population.

Snowfall in Comayagua, Honduras – An Unprecedented Event

Comayagua, a city located in central Honduras, experienced an extraordinary weather phenomenon in December 2022 when snowfall blanketed the city and surrounding areas. This unprecedented event marked the first recorded snowfall in Comayagua’s history and drew widespread attention. The snowfall began in the early hours of the morning, and as the sun rose, residents awoke to a surreal sight of snow-covered streets, rooftops, and trees.

The snowfall was attributed to a cold front from the Arctic that pushed into the region, bringing with it moisture and sub-freezing temperatures. The cold front collided with warm, moist air over Honduras, causing the moisture to condense and fall as snow. The snow accumulation reached an estimated two inches in some areas, creating a winter wonderland in a country known for its tropical climate. The unusual snowfall provided a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience winter weather and engage in snow-related activities, such as building snowmen and throwing snowballs.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Comayagua, Honduras, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit. During the summer months (May to August), sunrise typically occurs between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM, while sunset takes place between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM. In the winter months (November to February), sunrise shifts to around 6:30 AM, and sunset occurs earlier, around 5:30 PM. These times may vary slightly depending on the specific day and atmospheric conditions.

Sunlight Hours and Solar Intensity

The average number of sunlight hours in Comayagua varies throughout the year, with more hours during the summer months. In June, the city experiences approximately 13 hours of sunlight, while in December, this drops to around 11 hours. The intensity of solar radiation, measured as solar irradiance, is also influenced by factors such as cloud cover, atmospheric conditions, and the time of day. Comayagua typically receives strong solar intensity, with an average daily solar irradiance of around 5-6 kilowatt-hours per square meter (kWh/m2). However, during cloudy or rainy days, solar irradiance can decrease significantly.

Waxing and Waning

The Moon, the celestial companion to Earth, appears to go through a cycle of phases as it orbits our planet. From Comayagua, residents can witness the Moon’s captivating transformations throughout the month. During the new moon phase, the Moon is not visible because it is located between the Earth and the Sun. As it continues to orbit, the Moon gradually becomes visible as a crescent, gradually increasing in size until it reaches a full moon, when its entire face is illuminated by sunlight.

Lunar Eclipse

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, blocking sunlight from reaching the Moon. During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon takes on a reddish hue, known as “blood moon.” From Comayagua, residents have the opportunity to witness this celestial phenomenon, with the Moon appearing to change color as it passes through the Earth’s shadow.

Annual Humidity Patterns
Comayagua, Honduras experiences significant humidity throughout the year, with an average yearly humidity level of around 70%. The humidity levels fluctuate considerably with seasonal changes. During the wet season, typically from May to October, humidity levels soar, with average monthly humidity exceeding 80%. The combination of high temperature and moisture creates a sweltering and uncomfortable atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Seasonal Variations
In the dry season, which runs from November to April, humidity levels decrease somewhat, with average monthly humidity around 60-70%. However, even during this period, humidity can still be quite high, particularly during the warmest months of March and April. The lower humidity during the dry season provides some respite from the oppressive summer heat, but the air can still feel muggy and uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.

Wind Patterns

Comayagua, Honduras, experiences consistent wind patterns throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction is easterly, bringing warm and humid air from the Caribbean Sea. During the rainy season (May-October), easterly winds strengthen, carrying significant moisture that results in frequent rainfall. Conversely, during the dry season (November-April), northeasterly winds dominate, bringing drier and cooler air from the Gulf of Mexico. These winds typically weaken at night, allowing for relatively calm conditions.

Speed and Gusts

The average wind speed in Comayagua ranges from 10 to 15 kilometers per hour (6-9 miles per hour), depending on the season. However, during the rainy season, strong gusts are common, especially when thunderstorms or tropical storms approach. These gusts can reach up to 50-60 kilometers per hour (30-40 miles per hour) or higher, causing occasional damage to trees and structures. During the dry season, wind speeds tend to be lower, with gusts rarely exceeding 25 kilometers per hour (15 miles per hour).

Dry Season (November to April)

The dry season in Comayagua offers the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the city. During this time, temperatures range between a comfortable 21°C (70°F) and 27°C (80°F). The humidity is low, making it pleasant to walk around and engage in outdoor activities. The skies are mostly clear, providing ample sunshine for sightseeing and photography. The dry season is the perfect time to visit the historic center of Comayagua, admire the colonial architecture, and explore the many churches and museums.

Wet Season (May to October)

The wet season in Comayagua is characterized by heavy rainfall and increased humidity. Temperatures remain relatively warm, ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 31°C (87°F). While the weather can be unpredictable, there are often breaks in the rain, allowing for some outdoor exploration. One advantage of the wet season is the lush and vibrant greenery in the surrounding countryside. The rain showers can also provide a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience with nature and fewer crowds, the wet season may be a suitable time to visit Comayagua.

Solar Irradiation and Potential

Comayagua, Honduras, receives an abundant amount of solar energy, with an average of 5.5 kWh/m2 of global horizontal irradiation per day. This high solar potential makes the city an ideal location for the development of solar energy systems. The dry season, which extends from November to April, offers particularly favorable conditions for solar power generation, with minimal cloud cover and high levels of sunshine.

Existing Solar Installations and Future Development

Several solar energy projects are already operational in Comayagua, including residential and commercial installations. The city has also implemented a number of initiatives to promote solar energy usage, such as reducing the cost of permitting and offering incentives for businesses and homeowners to install solar panels. With its abundant solar resources and supportive policy environment, Comayagua is well-positioned to become a hub for solar energy development in Honduras.

Terrain Features

Comayagua’s terrain is characterized by a series of valleys and ridges that extend primarily in an east-west direction. The most prominent valley is the Comayagua Valley, which lies in the center of the department and is surrounded by the Celaque Mountains to the west, the Montecillos Mountains to the north, and the Sierra de Agalta to the south. The valley is home to the city of Comayagua, the department capital, and is a fertile agricultural region.

Geology

The geology of Comayagua is primarily composed of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. The sedimentary rocks are mostly sandstone, limestone, and shale, while the metamorphic rocks are mainly slate and schist. These rocks have been folded and faulted over time, creating the valleys and ridges that characterize the terrain. The department also has some volcanic rocks, which are found in the Celaque Mountains. The volcanic activity has created some hot springs in the area, which are a popular tourist destination.

Palmerola International Airport (XPL) is the primary airport in the Comayagua department in Honduras. It serves as the gateway to the city of Comayagua and the surrounding region. The airport is located approximately 9 kilometers southeast of Comayagua City, in the municipality of Palmerola. It is a modern facility with a 2,450-meter runway capable of accommodating large aircraft. The airport provides a range of services, including commercial passenger flights, cargo handling, and general aviation services. It is the main airport for travelers visiting the Comayagua region and is easily accessible by road from Comayagua City.

Another nearby airport is Toncontín International Airport (TGU) in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. Toncontín Airport is approximately a 1-hour drive from Comayagua City. It handles domestic and international flights and is the main international gateway for Honduras. However, due to its location in a mountainous area and short runway, large aircraft are not typically able to operate at Toncontín Airport. For larger aircraft, Palmerola International Airport is the preferred option.

History and Heritage

Comayagua, nestled in central Honduras, boasts a rich and storied past. Founded in 1537 as a mining town, it served as the political and religious center of the country for centuries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s colonial heritage by exploring the imposing Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, a magnificent example of Spanish baroque architecture. The city is also home to the Museo de Antropología e Historia, showcasing the fascinating cultural history of the region.

Modern City and Surroundings

Today, Comayagua is a vibrant modern city with a population of over 100,000. It serves as the capital of the Comayagua Department and is a major economic and transportation hub. The city has a lively atmosphere with a thriving market scene, numerous restaurants, and cultural events. Surrounding Comayagua is a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, dotted with traditional haciendas and colonial churches. Visitors can venture into the surrounding countryside to experience the tranquility of rural Honduras and explore the natural beauty of the region.