Gurupi Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Temperature and Rainfall

Gurupi, Brazil, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit), with little variation throughout the year. During the wet season, from October to March, heavy rainfall is prevalent, while during the dry season, from April to September, rainfall is minimal. The average annual rainfall is approximately 1,800 millimeters (71 inches), concentrated during the wet season.

Humidity and Sunshine

Humidity levels in Gurupi are consistently high, with an average annual humidity of around 80%. The humidity can be particularly uncomfortable during the wet season, when it can reach up to 90%. Sunshine hours are abundant throughout the year, with an average of 2,400 hours per year. During the wet season, there may be periods of overcast skies and rain, but sunshine is still prevalent. In the dry season, clear skies and intense sunshine dominate the weather pattern.

Annual Temperature Trends

Gurupi, Brazil, experiences a distinct annual temperature cycle characterized by warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The average annual temperature in Gurupi is approximately 25.2° Celsius (77.3° Fahrenheit), with little variation throughout the year. Temperatures remain relatively constant, ranging from an average of 22.7° Celsius (72.9° Fahrenheit) in June, the coolest month, to 27.2° Celsius (80.9° Fahrenheit) in January, the warmest month.

Monsoon Season and Dry Season

The city experiences a distinct monsoon season from October to April, characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. During this period, average temperatures generally range from the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit). The dry season, from May to September, brings cooler temperatures and less precipitation. Average temperatures during this time typically hover around the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit), with occasional dips into the low 20s Celsius (around 70° Fahrenheit) at night.

Cloud Types in Gurupi

Gurupi experiences a diverse range of cloud formations due to its tropical climate and proximity to the Amazon rainforest. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy white appearance, are common during the morning hours. As the day progresses and temperatures rise, these clouds can develop into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which bring heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Stratus clouds, which form a uniform gray layer, often cover the sky during the rainy season.

Cloud Patterns and Influences

The cloud patterns in Gurupi are influenced by various factors, including the prevailing wind direction and the presence of topography. The eastern winds often carry moisture from the Amazon, resulting in the formation of clouds over the city. Additionally, the presence of the Serra do Cachimbo, a mountain range to the south, can affect cloud patterns and precipitation. During the rainy season, the mountains can act as a barrier, causing clouds to condense and release significant rainfall.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Gurupi experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season typically lasts from June to September, while the wet season spans from October to May. During the wet season, rainfall is abundant, with average monthly precipitation exceeding 250 millimeters. The peak of the wet season occurs in January and February, when heavy downpours are frequent. In contrast, during the dry season, rainfall is significantly reduced, with average monthly precipitation below 100 millimeters.

Annual Precipitation and Variability

Gurupi receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 1,900 millimeters, making it one of the wettest cities in Brazil. The annual precipitation exhibits considerable variability, with dry years receiving as low as 1,500 millimeters, while wet years can see over 2,300 millimeters of rainfall. This variability is primarily driven by fluctuations in global climate patterns, such as El Niño and La Niña. During El Niño years, rainfall tends to be below average, while La Niña years often bring increased rainfall to the region.

Rainfall Patterns

Gurupi, Brazil experiences a tropical climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The wet season, extending from October to April, receives heavy rainfall, with monthly averages exceeding 200 mm. During this period, thunderstorms and intense downpours are common, leading to flash floods and soil erosion. In contrast, the dry season from May to September is less rainy, with monthly rainfall typically below 100 mm. However, occasional showers and thunderstorms can occur during this season, providing some reprieve from the drier conditions.

Seasonal Variability

The rainfall in Gurupi exhibits strong seasonal variability. The wettest month is January, with an average rainfall of over 300 mm. Conversely, the driest month is July, with an average rainfall of less than 50 mm. This significant difference in rainfall between the wet and dry seasons influences local agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure. During the rainy season, farmers can take advantage of the ample moisture to cultivate crops such as soybeans, corn, and rice. However, the heavy downpours can also cause damage to crops and infrastructure, leading to economic losses. During the dry season, water scarcity can become a concern, especially in rural areas where access to reliable water sources is limited.

History of Snowfall

Snowfall in Gurupi, Brazil is an extremely rare occurrence. In meteorological records dating back to the 19th century, snowfall has only been officially documented twice. The first instance was on July 25, 1925, when a cold front brought unusually low temperatures to the region. The second recorded snowfall occurred on August 1, 1961, during another cold air outbreak. In both instances, the snowfall was brief and melted away within a few hours.

Causes of Snowfall

Snowfall in Gurupi, Brazil is primarily attributed to cold fronts that originate in the Antarctic. When these cold fronts interact with warm, humid air from the tropics, they create unstable atmospheric conditions that can lead to thunderstorms and hail. In rare cases, when the air temperature at ground level falls below freezing, hail can transform into snow. This process is more likely to occur at higher elevations, where temperatures are generally cooler than at sea level.

Impact of Snowfall

The snowfall events in Gurupi, Brazil did not have significant long-term impacts on the local environment or infrastructure. However, they were widely reported in the Brazilian media and drew considerable attention from the public. The rarity of snowfall in the region made these events notable and memorable for residents of Gurupi and the surrounding areas.

Sunrise and Sunset Times:

In Gurupi, Brazil, the sun rises and sets approximately at the same time throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator. Sunrise typically occurs between 5:30 and 6:00 AM, while sunset takes place around 6:00 to 6:30 PM. During the summer months from December to March, the sun rises slightly earlier and sets slightly later, while the opposite is true during the winter months from June to September.

Daylight Hours:

Gurupi enjoys consistent daylight hours throughout the year. On average, the city experiences approximately 12 hours of daylight per day, plus or minus about 30 minutes. The longest days of the year occur in December and January, with around 12 hours and 45 minutes of daylight, while the shortest days fall in June and July, with about 11 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. This consistent daylight duration is typical of tropical regions near the equator and makes Gurupi a pleasant place to live and visit year-round.

Moon Phases and Visibility in Gurupi, Brazil

Gurupi, located in the northern region of Brazil, experiences various moon phases throughout the year. The new moon, when the moon is not visible from Earth, occurs approximately every 29.5 days. During this phase, the moon is located between the Earth and the sun, making it impossible to see from our vantage point.

As the moon moves in its orbit, it gradually becomes visible as a crescent moon. The waxing crescent moon is visible in the western sky just after sunset. Over the next few nights, the moon continues to grow in size, becoming a first quarter moon when it is half illuminated. This phase occurs seven days after the new moon.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Gurupi, Brazil

The moonrise and moonset times in Gurupi, Brazil, vary throughout the month due to the Earth’s rotation and the moon’s orbit. The moon typically rises in the east and sets in the west, although the exact direction and timing can change slightly depending on the moon’s phase and the time of year.

During the full moon phase, when the entire face of the moon is illuminated, the moon rises at sunset and sets at sunrise. As the moon moves through its waning phases, the moonrise and moonset times become earlier each night. The moonset time can vary from around 10:00 pm during the first quarter moon to around 4:00 am during the last quarter moon.

Humidity Patterns

Gurupi, Brazil exhibits significant variability in humidity levels throughout the year. The city experiences high humidity during the summer months from December to April, with relative humidity levels commonly exceeding 80%. During this period, the air becomes saturated with moisture, creating a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere. In contrast, the winter months (May to November) are characterized by lower humidity levels, typically below 60%. This drier air brings relief from the oppressive summer humidity, providing more pleasant and comfortable conditions.

Seasonal Influences

The seasonal variations in humidity in Gurupi are primarily driven by the region’s tropical climate. During the summer months, warm ocean currents and abundant rainfall contribute to increased moisture in the atmosphere. The frequent occurrence of heavy thunderstorms further elevates humidity levels. Conversely, during the winter months, the reduced rainfall and cooler temperatures lead to drier conditions. The lack of significant moisture sources and the prevalence of drier air masses during this period result in lower humidity levels.

Wind Patterns in Gurupi, Brazil

Gurupi, located in the northern region of Brazil, experiences distinctive wind patterns that shape its climate and weather conditions. During the dry season, which spans from April to October, the winds are predominantly easterly and trade winds. These winds originate from the Atlantic Ocean and carry moisture from the ocean, leading to sporadic rainfall. The velocity of the winds during this period ranges between 3 to 5 m/s (10-18 km/h).

In contrast, during the wet season (November to March), the winds shift to a more northeasterly direction and are influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The ITCZ brings increased precipitation, and the winds become more variable and stronger, reaching speeds of up to 7 m/s (25 km/h). The intensity of the winds during this season is often associated with convective processes, such as thunderstorms, which are common in the region. The persistent northeasterly winds during the wet season result in heavy rainfall and contribute to the humid and warm weather conditions experienced in Gurupi.

Best time to visit in Gurupi, Brazil

Gurupi, a city in northern Brazil, experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season runs from October to April, while the dry season lasts from May to September.

The best time to visit Gurupi is during the dry season, when the weather is warm and dry. Temperatures average between 75°F and 90°F, and there is little rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. Additionally, many festivals and events are held during the dry season, making it a great time to experience the local culture.

Solar Energy Potential and Development

Gurupi, located in the central region of Brazil, has abundant solar energy potential due to its tropical climate and high levels of solar radiation. The city receives an average of 5.5 kWh/m2 of solar energy per day, making it an ideal location for solar PV (photovoltaic) installations. As a result, Gurupi has emerged as a hub for solar energy development in Brazil.

Government Initiatives and Investments

The Brazilian government has recognized the potential of solar energy in Gurupi and has implemented several initiatives to promote its adoption. The government’s “Programa Nacional de Energia Elétrica” (PNE) has established ambitious targets for solar energy generation in the country, with Gurupi playing a significant role. Additionally, the government has provided various incentives for solar energy development, including tax breaks and streamlined permitting processes.

Topography and River Systems

Gurupi, located in northern Brazil, is situated within the Tocantins-Araguaia River Basin and boasts a diverse topography. The region is characterized by a gently undulating landscape, with rolling hills and valleys interspersed throughout. The Serra do Cachimbo, a prominent mountain range, forms the northern boundary of Gurupi. The Rio Tocantins, the third-largest river in Brazil, flows through the western part of the city, providing essential water resources and transportation routes. The Rio Araguaia, another major river, borders Gurupi to the southeast, forming a natural boundary with the neighboring state of Goias.

Geological Features

Gurupi’s geological composition plays a significant role in shaping its topography. The region lies within the Parnaíba Basin, a sedimentary basin formed during the Mesozoic Era. The underlying rocks consist primarily of sandstone, limestone, and shale, with occasional outcrops of volcanic rocks. These geological formations have influenced the development of the area’s hills, valleys, and escarpments. The presence of faults and fractures in the bedrock has further contributed to the creation of distinct topographic features. Erosion by rivers and streams has also shaped the landscape, carving out canyons and creating river terraces. As a result, Gurupi exhibits a fascinating interplay of geological and hydrological processes that have shaped its unique topography.

Nearest Airport to Gurupi, Brazil

The nearest airport to Gurupi, Brazil is the Gurupi Airport (GRP), located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the city center. It is a small regional airport with limited flight options, but it offers connections to major cities in Brazil, such as Brasília and Belo Horizonte. GRP is served by Azul Linhas Aéreas, which provides regular flights to these destinations.

Alternative Airports

If Gurupi Airport does not offer suitable flight options, there are two alternative airports within a reasonable driving distance. Palmas Airport (PMW) is located approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) from Gurupi, while Imperatriz Airport (IMP) is about 240 kilometers (149 miles) away. Both airports offer a wider range of flight options, including connections to international destinations. However, it is important to consider the additional travel time and transportation costs when choosing an alternative airport.

Geography and Economy

Gurupi is a municipality located in the state of Tocantins in central-northern Brazil. Situated on the banks of the Araguaia River, Gurupi is a major agricultural hub. The surrounding region is known for its production of soybeans, corn, rice, and cotton, contributing significantly to the city’s economy.

Culture and Tourism

Gurupi boasts a vibrant cultural scene marked by its diverse population and rich history. The city is home to numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. The Museu Histórico e Cultural de Gurupi (Gurupi Historical and Cultural Museum) showcases the city’s past and present through exhibits on local history and culture. The Praça do Carmo (Carmo Square) is a popular gathering place, where locals and tourists can enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and community events.