Ponta Pora Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Brazil

Summer (December – March)

Summers in Ponta Pora are characterized by hot, humid weather. The average temperature during this season ranges from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Rainfall is abundant, with an average monthly precipitation of 150-200 mm (6-8 inches). The humidity levels are typically around 80%, leading to a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere. Strong thunderstorms can occur during this season, bringing lightning, heavy rains, and occasional hail.

Winter (June – September)

In contrast to the hot summers, winters in Ponta Pora are relatively mild and dry. The average temperature during this season ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Humidity levels decrease to around 60%, providing a more pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. Precipitation is scarce, with an average monthly rainfall of less than 50 mm (2 inches). Nights can be chilly, especially in July, with temperatures dipping below 10°C (50°F) occasionally.

Average Temperature in Ponta Pora, Brazil

Ponta Pora, situated in Brazil’s Mato Grosso do Sul state, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city’s average annual temperature is around 22.5°C (72.5°F). January, the hottest month, exhibits an average temperature of 27°C (80.6°F), while July, the coldest month, averages around 15°C (59°F).

During the wet season (October to March), Ponta Pora receives abundant rainfall, with thunderstorms common. The rainfall during this period accounts for approximately 75% of the city’s annual precipitation. In the dry season (April to September), rainfall is scarce, and the weather is generally dry and clear. The humidity levels in Ponta Pora are relatively high throughout the year, averaging around 70%.

Climate and Cloud Cover

Ponta Pora is situated in a subtropical climate zone, characterized by hot and humid summers with mild winters. The cloud cover in Ponta Pora varies throughout the year, with more cloudiness during the summer months due to increased rainfall. During the drier winter months, clouds become less prevalent, offering clearer skies. The presence of the Atlantic Forest in the region contributes to higher humidity levels and increased cloud cover, especially during the summer.

Cloud Types

Ponta Pora experiences a wide range of cloud types, including cumulus, stratus, and cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds are puffy clouds that appear at low altitudes and often indicate fair weather. Stratus clouds are flat and featureless, covering the sky with a uniform gray layer. They often bring light rain or drizzle. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that form at high altitudes and are composed of ice crystals. These clouds generally indicate stable atmospheric conditions. Additionally, Ponta Pora may experience clouds associated with thunderstorms, such as cumulonimbus clouds, which are tall, anvil-shaped clouds that can produce heavy rain, lightning, and thunder.

Seasonality of Precipitation

Precipitation in Ponta Pora, Brazil, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern. The wet season, lasting from October to March, is characterized by frequent and heavy rainfall. During this period, the average monthly rainfall typically exceeds 100 mm. The driest months occur from June to August, when precipitation levels drop below 50 mm per month.

Annual Precipitation and Extreme Events

The annual precipitation in Ponta Pora averages around 1,500 mm. However, this amount can vary significantly from year to year, influenced by weather patterns and climate variability. Occasional droughts and periods of excessive rainfall have also been recorded in the region. For instance, the city experienced severe drought conditions in 2014, resulting in water supply shortages and crop failures. Conversely, extreme rainfall events have also occurred, leading to flooding and infrastructure damage, such as the heavy rains associated with a cold front that passed through the area in June 2019.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Ponta Pora, located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, experiences distinct seasonal rainfall patterns. The wet season typically spans from October to March, with peak rainfall occurring in January. During these months, the city receives an average of 200 mm of precipitation per month. The dry season extends from April to September, with minimal rainfall and prolonged periods of drought.

Annual Rainfall and Climate Variability

Ponta Pora’s annual rainfall averages around 1,400 mm, making it a relatively humid region. However, rainfall can fluctuate significantly from year to year. During El Niño events, a climate phenomenon characterized by warmer ocean temperatures in the Pacific, Ponta Pora typically experiences reduced rainfall, leading to droughts and increased wildfire risk. Conversely, during La Niña events, the city receives more abundant precipitation, sometimes resulting in flooding and infrastructure damage.

Historic Snowfall

Ponta Pora, a city in southern Brazil, experienced a historic snowfall on July 22, 2021. The snowfall, which lasted for several hours, marked the first time the city had ever recorded snowfall. Temperatures dropped to below freezing, and the city’s streets and buildings were covered in a blanket of snow. The snowfall was a major event for Ponta Pora, and many residents took to the streets to enjoy the rare spectacle.

Causes of the Snowfall

The snowfall in Ponta Pora was caused by a combination of factors. A cold front from the Antarctic moved over the city, bringing with it freezing temperatures and moisture. The moisture condensed and froze in the cold air, forming snowflakes. The snowfall was particularly heavy because the cold front stalled over the city, allowing the snow to accumulate for several hours. The snowfall was a reminder of the extreme weather that can occur in Brazil, even in the southernmost regions.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Ponta Pora, Brazil, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year. The earliest sunrise occurs in December, around 5:30 AM, while the latest sunrise happens in June, around 6:30 AM. Similarly, the earliest sunset takes place in December, approximately 6:00 PM, and the latest sunset occurs in June, close to 5:30 PM. These variations in sunrise and sunset times are due to the Earth’s tilt and the city’s location in the Southern Hemisphere.

Sun Exposure

Ponta Pora experiences abundant sunshine year-round, with an average of 8 hours of sunlight per day. The city enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The optimal time to visit Ponta Pora for sunshine is during the summer months (December to March) when the days are longer, and the sun shines brightly for extended periods. However, it’s important to take necessary precautions to protect oneself from excessive sun exposure, such as wearing sunscreen and seeking shade during peak hours.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Ponta Pora, Brazil

Ponta Pora, a municipality located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, experiences varying moonrise and moonset times throughout the year due to its geographical position. The moon’s movement, influenced by the Earth’s rotation and the moon’s orbit, results in a predictable cycle of rising and setting times that change daily. To provide precise information about moonrise and moonset, astronomical calculations based on Ponta Pora’s latitude and longitude are necessary.

During the month of January, the moonrise occurs between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM, while the moonset takes place around 4:30 AM to 5:30 AM. These times provide ample opportunity for moon gazing and astronomical observations during the evening and early morning hours. However, it’s important to note that weather conditions and other factors can affect the visibility of the moon.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Ponta Pora, Brazil experiences distinct seasonal variations in humidity. During the rainy season, which typically spans from October to April, humidity levels are consistently high, often reaching an average of 80-90%. The high humidity during this period is due to ample rainfall and moisture evaporating from the surrounding vegetation and water bodies. Conversely, during the dry season, which lasts from May to September, humidity levels drop significantly, averaging around 50-60%. The reduced precipitation and increased evaporation during this time lead to drier conditions.

Monthly Humidity Trends

The monthly humidity trend in Ponta Pora follows the annual cycle. The most humid months are typically December, January, and February, with average humidity levels exceeding 85%. During these months, rainfall is abundant, and the atmosphere is saturated with moisture. Conversely, the least humid months are June, July, and August, with average humidity levels dropping to around 55-60%. During this period, precipitation is scarce, and the dry conditions result in lower humidity levels.

Wind Patterns

Ponta Pora, located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, experiences a distinct wind pattern influenced by various factors. The prevailing wind direction is from the east or southeast, originating from the Atlantic Ocean. These winds carry moisture and contribute to the region’s relatively humid climate. During the summer, the winds tend to be stronger and more frequent, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional storms. In contrast, during the winter, the winds diminish in intensity and frequency, resulting in a drier and cooler season.

Speed and Variability

The wind speed in Ponta Pora generally varies between 10 and 15 kilometers per hour (6-9 miles per hour) on average. However, during extreme weather events such as storms, the wind speed can exceed 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour). Seasonal variations also impact wind speed, with higher speeds observed during the summer months due to the increased atmospheric instability. The variability of wind speed and direction in Ponta Pora is influenced by the topography of the surrounding region, which includes hills and valleys, as well as the presence of vegetation.

Spring (September to November): This is the best time to visit Ponta Pora due to the pleasant weather. Temperatures average in the mid-70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and enjoying the city’s plazas and parks. The humidity is relatively low, and there is less rainfall than during other seasons. This period coincides with the Brazilian spring, offering beautiful blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Autumn (March to May): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Ponta Pora, with comfortable temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. The rainfall is slightly higher than in spring, but it is still manageable and unlikely to disrupt outdoor activities. The leaves on the trees begin to turn vibrant shades of gold and orange, creating stunning scenery. This season is also ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds pass through the area.

Current State and Potential

Ponta Pora, located in Brazil’s southwestern region, possesses significant potential for solar energy utilization. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average solar insolation of over 5.5 kWh/m²/day. This high solar radiation makes it an ideal location for photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight directly into electricity.

Despite its potential, the adoption of solar energy in Ponta Pora is still in its early stages. However, there are encouraging signs of growth. The city government has implemented policies to support the deployment of solar PV systems, including tax incentives and financing programs. As a result, several businesses and households have already installed solar panels, leading to a gradual increase in the share of renewable energy in the city’s energy mix.

Topography of Ponta Pora, Brazil

Ponta Pora, located in the southwest of Brazil, is characterized by a rolling topography with gentle slopes and plateaus. The municipality rests on the Ponta Pora Plateau, which forms part of the Bodoquena Plateau, and gradually transitions into the lowlands of the Pantanal floodplain. The plateau’s elevation ranges from 600 to 800 meters above sea level, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The Ponta Pora region is home to numerous rivers and streams that originate from the plateau’s highlands. The Rio Itambezinho, the main river flowing through Ponta Pora, carves a deep valley into the plateau, creating picturesque canyons and waterfalls. Smaller streams cascade over waterfalls and form shallow pools and rapids that support a thriving ecosystem. The topography of Ponta Pora has played a significant role in shaping its natural habitats, influencing the distribution of vegetation and wildlife. The mosaic of plateaus, valleys, and waterways creates diverse microclimates and supports a wide range of species.

Ponta Porã International Airport (PPO)

Ponta Porã International Airport (PPO), also known as Dra. Dora Vivacqua Airport, is the main airport serving the city of Ponta Porã in Brazil. It is located approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) northwest of the city center. The airport has a single asphalt runway that is 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) long and 30 meters (98 feet) wide. PPO is classified as a domestic airport by the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).

There are currently no scheduled passenger flights operating from PPO. However, the airport is used by private aircraft and for charter flights. The nearest airport with scheduled passenger flights is Campo Grande International Airport (CGR), which is located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) to the west.

Geography and Demography

Ponta Porã is a municipality in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul. It is located on the border with Paraguay, across from the city of Pedro Juan Caballero. The city has a population of over 90,000 people and an area of 5,465 square kilometers. The terrain around Ponta Porã is mostly flat, with some rolling hills and mountains. The city is drained by the Paraná River and its tributaries.

Economy and Culture

The economy of Ponta Porã is largely based on agriculture and tourism. The city is a major producer of soybeans, corn, and beef. It is also home to several hydroelectric power plants. Tourism is another important industry for Ponta Porã. The city is a popular destination for Brazilian and Paraguayan tourists, who come to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. Ponta Porã is home to several museums and art galleries, as well as a number of historical sites. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and nightclubs.