Coronel Fabriciano Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Climate Overview

Coronel Fabriciano, located in southeastern Brazil, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The city is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Average temperatures range from 22°C (71.6°F) in July to 28°C (82.4°F) in January. The hottest months are December to February, while the coolest months are June to August. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 1,500 mm (59 in). The wettest months are October to March, while the driest months are April to September.

Seasonal Variations

Summer (December-February): Summers in Coronel Fabriciano are hot and humid, with average temperatures hovering around 28°C (82.4°F). The humidity levels are high, often reaching 80% or more. Heavy rainfall is common, with frequent thunderstorms and occasional hailstorms. The summer months are also known for occasional droughts, which can cause water shortages.

Winter (June-August): Winters in Coronel Fabriciano are mild and dry, with average temperatures dropping to 22°C (71.6°F). The humidity levels are lower than in summer, but still remain relatively high. Rainfall is sparse, with occasional light showers. The nights can be cool, with temperatures dipping below 15°C (59°F).

Monthly Average Temperatures

Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 21°C to 27°C (69°F to 81°F), with the warmest months being December to February and the coolest months being June and July. The city is also known for its relatively high humidity levels, averaging around 75% to 85% throughout the year.

Seasonal Temperature Variations

During the summer months (December to February), temperatures in Coronel Fabriciano typically reach their peak, with daily highs averaging between 27°C and 30°C (81°F and 86°F). Nights can still be warm, with lows dipping to around 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F). The rainfall received during this time can vary depending on the year, with some years experiencing heavier precipitation than others. However, it is generally considered the wet season in Coronel Fabriciano.

During the winter months (June to July), temperatures are at their coolest, with daily highs averaging between 21°C and 23°C (69°F and 73°F). Nights can be chilly, with lows dropping to around 14°C to 17°C (57°F to 63°F). The winter months in Coronel Fabriciano are generally drier than the summer months, with less rainfall on average.

Cloud Characteristics

Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, experiences a wide range of cloud formations throughout the year. During the dry season (May-September), clear skies are prevalent as the prevailing easterly trade winds keep the atmosphere stable. However, as the wet season approaches (October-April), the easterly trade winds weaken, and warm, moist air from the equatorial regions moves in. This brings about an increase in convective activity leading to the formation of towering cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds are often associated with heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and occasionally strong winds.

Cloud Variability

The cloud cover in Coronel Fabriciano varies significantly on a seasonal and daily basis. During the dry season, the daily cloud cover typically ranges from 0-3 oktas (eighths of the sky), with clear or partly cloudy skies dominating the weather pattern. In contrast, during the wet season, the daily cloud cover can reach 7-9 oktas, resulting in overcast or very cloudy skies. The variability in cloud cover is also influenced by local topography and land-sea interactions, which can lead to the formation of localized cloud features such as fog and orographic clouds.

Rainfall Patterns

Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, experiences a tropical climate characterized by abundant precipitation throughout the year. The city receives an average of 1,450 millimeters (57 inches) of rainfall annually. The rainy season typically spans from October to April, while the dry season runs from May to September. During the rainy season, intense downpours and thunderstorms are common, occasionally leading to flash flooding.

Seasonal Variations

December and January are the wettest months in Coronel Fabriciano, with average rainfall exceeding 250 millimeters (10 inches). During these months, heavy rains can persist for several days, resulting in significant flooding and disrupting daily life. The driest months are June and July, when precipitation averages less than 50 millimeters (2 inches). During this period, the weather is generally hot and dry, with occasional light showers providing some relief from the arid conditions.

Rainfall Patterns

Coronel Fabriciano experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, which typically spans from November to April, the city receives an average of over 200 millimeters of rainfall per month. The heaviest rainfall occurs in January, with an average of around 350 millimeters. The dry season, from May to October, is significantly drier, with average monthly rainfall below 50 millimeters. June and July are the driest months, with an average of less than 10 millimeters of rainfall each.

Impact on the Environment and Economy

The seasonal rainfall patterns have a significant impact on the local environment and economy. During the wet season, the heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, erosion, and landslides. The city has implemented various measures to mitigate these risks, including building dams and levees, and planting trees to stabilize soil. The abundant rainfall also supports the local agriculture, with crops such as coffee and sugarcane thriving in the wet climate. During the dry season, water shortages can occur, particularly in rural areas. The city has constructed reservoirs and implemented water conservation measures to manage water resources effectively.

Historical Snowfall in Coronel Fabriciano

On July 20, 1975, the city of Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, witnessed an unprecedented meteorological event: snowfall. This remarkable phenomenon occurred during a polar front passage, which brought freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall to the region. As the precipitation intensified, icy particles formed and began to fall from the sky, creating a surreal winter wonderland in the heart of the tropical country.

Impact of the Snowfall

The snowfall brought life in Coronel Fabriciano to a standstill. Roads were impassable, and schools and businesses remained closed. The local population, unaccustomed to such extreme weather conditions, marveled at the sight of trees and buildings adorned with a delicate blanket of white. Children and adults alike ventured outdoors to experience the magic of snow, building snowmen and throwing snowballs. However, the beauty of the snowfall was accompanied by a layer of slippery ice, which created treacherous conditions and posed a risk to safety.

Sun’s Position and Movement

In Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, the sun follows a predictable path throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt on its axis. During the summer months (December to March), the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, providing longer days with more intense sunlight. Conversely, during the winter months (June to September), the sun remains lower in the sky, resulting in shorter days and weaker sunlight. The sun typically rises in the east, culminates (reaches its highest point) near noon, and sets in the west.

Daylight Hours and Seasonal Variations

The number of daylight hours in Coronel Fabriciano varies significantly throughout the year due to the city’s location in the Southern Hemisphere. During the summer months, days can reach up to 13 hours long, providing ample time for outdoor activities and sunlight exposure. In contrast, during the winter months, days become noticeably shorter, with only about 10 hours of daylight. These seasonal variations in daylight hours influence daily routines, light availability, and the overall circadian rhythm of the city’s inhabitants.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil

The moonrise and moonset times in Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, vary throughout the month. In general, the moon rises earlier and sets later during the full moon phase, and vice versa during the new moon phase. To find the specific moonrise and moonset times for a particular day, it is recommended to consult an online source or a local astronomy club.

Moon Phases in Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil

The moon goes through a cycle of phases over the course of approximately 29.5 days. In Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil, the moon phases are visible throughout the year, although they may be obscured by clouds or other weather conditions. The new moon phase occurs when the moon is between the Earth and the sun, so it is not visible from Earth. The full moon phase occurs when the moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun, so it is fully illuminated from Earth’s perspective.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns

Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. The driest months are July and August, during which the relative humidity typically ranges from 50% to 65%. Humidity levels begin to rise during the spring months, peaking between December and March. During this period, the relative humidity can reach as high as 85-90%, creating an uncomfortably muggy atmosphere.

Humidity and Health

High humidity levels can have adverse effects on human health. When the air is excessively humid, it becomes more difficult for the body to cool itself through sweating. This can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially during periods of prolonged heat. Additionally, high humidity can contribute to respiratory problems, such as asthma and allergies. The prevalence of these conditions tends to increase during the humid months in Coronel Fabriciano.

Seasonal Wind Patterns

Coronel Fabriciano, located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, experiences distinct seasonal wind patterns. During the dry season, which typically lasts from May to October, the region is dominated by dry and stable conditions, resulting in calm winds. During this time, the prevailing wind direction is from the southeast, bringing in cooler and drier air from the interior of the country.

Summer Wind Patterns

In the wet season, which spans from November to April, the wind patterns shift significantly. The arrival of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) over the region brings increased precipitation and more frequent easterly winds. These winds transport warm and moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in increased humidity and rainfall. During the wet season, the average wind speed is higher, with occasional strong gusts and thunderstorms.

Ideal Time for Optimal Weather

Coronel Fabriciano enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct periods of wet and dry seasons. The optimal time to visit for the most pleasant weather conditions is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. During this period, rainfall is minimal, and temperatures are moderate, with average highs ranging from 27 to 31 degrees Celsius (80.6 to 87.8 degrees Fahrenheit). The dry season offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and visiting the city’s many attractions without the discomfort of excessive heat or humidity.

Peak Season for Festivities

While the dry season offers the best weather, the peak season for tourism in Coronel Fabriciano is during the summer months of December to March. This period coincides with the city’s vibrant cultural calendar, featuring numerous festivals and events that attract a large number of visitors. Highlights include the Carnevale extravaganza in February, the Festa de São José in March, and the Festival de Inverno in June. During these festivals, the city comes alive with music, dance, traditional costumes, and a lively atmosphere, offering a unique and immersive experience for tourists.

Potential for Solar Energy in Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil

Coronel Fabriciano, a city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, possesses significant potential for solar energy utilization. The region experiences abundant sunlight throughout the year, with an average of over 2,500 hours of sunshine annually. This translates to a high solar resource potential, making it a suitable location for photovoltaic (PV) system installations. Moreover, the city’s growing energy demand and increasing environmental concerns have further stimulated interest in solar energy as a viable alternative.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Currently, Coronel Fabriciano has several operational solar PV systems, including residential, commercial, and industrial installations. These systems contribute to reducing the city’s reliance on conventional energy sources and promote sustainability. Additionally, the government and local authorities are actively encouraging the adoption of solar energy through financial incentives and regulatory support. As a result, the deployment of solar PV systems is expected to accelerate in the coming years, further enhancing Coronel Fabriciano’s renewable energy profile and contributing to the city’s energy security and environmental goals.

Topography of Coronel Fabriciano

Coronel Fabriciano is located in the east-central region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, and is known for its rugged terrain. The municipality lies within the Serra do Espinhaço mountain range, which consists of a chain of high peaks, deep valleys, and steep slopes. The Serra do Espinhaço is part of the larger Brazilian Shield, a geologically stable region with a complex tectonic history.

Coronel Fabriciano is characterized by a diverse topography that includes hills, plateaus, and valleys. The Pico do Itambé, with an elevation of 1,723 meters, is the highest point in the municipality. The Pico da Bandeira, with an elevation of 2,892 meters, is located nearby in the neighboring municipality of Caparaó. The municipality is also home to several waterfalls, including the Cachoeira do Vale Encantado and the Cachoeira do Córrego do Bom Jardim. These waterfalls are popular tourist destinations and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Tancredo Neves International Airport

Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF), also known as Confins International Airport, is the nearest airport to Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil. It is located approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) from the city center and serves as a major gateway to the state of Minas Gerais. CNF is the fourth busiest airport in Brazil and handles both domestic and international flights. It has two terminals, one for domestic flights and one for international flights. The airport offers a wide range of services and amenities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, currency exchange, and car rental services.

Transportation from CNF to Coronel Fabriciano

There are several transportation options available to get from Tancredo Neves International Airport to Coronel Fabriciano. The most convenient option is to take a taxi, which takes about 2 hours and costs around R$250-300 (approximately $45-55). Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 3-4 hours and costs around R$50-60 (approximately $9-11). There are also private shuttle services that operate between the airport and Coronel Fabriciano, which can be booked in advance.

History and Significance

Coronel Fabriciano, a city in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, is steeped in history dating back to the 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes and became a hub for agriculture, particularly coffee cultivation. In 1891, the construction of the Rio Piracicaba Railroad brought significant economic growth to the region. The establishment of a steel factory in 1934 marked a pivotal moment in Coronel Fabriciano’s economic development, transforming it into a major industrial center in Brazil.

Geography and Climate

Coronel Fabriciano is situated in the eastern part of Minas Gerais, approximately 250 kilometers northeast of the state capital, Belo Horizonte. The city lies within the Atlantic Forest biome and is characterized by a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The annual average temperature is around 22°C, with temperatures ranging from 18°C in the cooler months to 26°C during the summer. Coronel Fabriciano boasts picturesque landscapes, including lush vegetation, rolling hills, and numerous waterfalls, making it a popular destination for ecotourism.