Sogamoso Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Colombia

Climate Overview

Sogamoso, located in the central-eastern region of Colombia, experiences a mild, temperate climate year-round. The average annual temperature hovers around 14°C (57°F), with minimal variations throughout the year. The city is situated in a valley, which contributes to the moderate temperatures. Days are typically warm and sunny, while nights can be slightly cooler. Humidity levels are moderate, with occasional rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from April to November.

Seasonal Weather

During the dry season, which occurs from December to March, rainfall is sparse, and the skies are mostly clear. Temperatures remain consistent, averaging between 12°C (54°F) and 22°C (72°F). This period is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In contrast, the rainy season brings increased precipitation, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. Temperatures remain relatively stable, but the increased humidity can make it feel warmer. The wettest months are typically April, September, and October, with average monthly rainfall exceeding 100mm.

Temperature Variation Throughout the Year

Sogamoso, Colombia experiences tropical savanna climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The average annual temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F). During the dry season (December to March), temperatures rise, with average highs reaching 20°C (68°F) and lows dropping to 5°C (41°F). Conversely, the wet season (April to November) features cooler temperatures, with average highs around 18°C (64°F) and lows dipping to 10°C (50°F).

Impact of Altitude

Sogamoso’s altitude, at 2,575 meters (8,450 feet) above sea level, significantly influences its temperature patterns. The higher elevation results in cooler temperatures compared to lower-lying areas in the same region. As a result, Sogamoso enjoys a pleasant and temperate climate throughout the year, with warm days and cool nights. The reduced atmospheric pressure also contributes to increased solar radiation, resulting in abundant sunshine and occasional afternoon showers, especially during the wet season.

Clouds in Sogamoso: Formation and Characteristics

Sogamoso, Colombia, is characterized by the presence of a variety of clouds that play a significant role in the city’s weather and climate. The most common types of clouds observed in Sogamoso are nimbostratus, cirrocumulus, and altocumulus. Nimbostratus clouds are thick, gray, and uniform, often covering the entire sky and producing steady precipitation. Cirrocumulus clouds, on the other hand, are thin, white, and puffy, resembling small cotton balls. Altocumulus clouds are also puffy but typically larger and less dense, appearing as gray or white patches at medium altitudes. The formation of these clouds is influenced by various factors, including the altitude, temperature, humidity, and prevailing wind patterns in the region.

Impact of Clouds on Sogamoso’s Weather and Climate

The presence of clouds in Sogamoso has a significant impact on the city’s weather conditions. Nimbostratus clouds bring prolonged rainfall, leading to cloudy and wet weather. Cirrocumulus clouds, while generally not associated with precipitation, can indicate changes in weather conditions and the approach of storms. Altocumulus clouds, when accompanied by other cloud formations, can produce light showers or drizzle. Additionally, clouds play a crucial role in regulating Sogamoso’s climate. They reflect solar radiation back into space, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the Earth’s surface. Furthermore, clouds trap heat near the ground, creating a greenhouse effect that contributes to the city’s relatively warm temperatures.

Seasonal Variation

Sogamoso’s precipitation patterns are driven by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a band of heavy rainfall near the equator. During the wet season, from March to November, the ITCZ moves northward, bringing abundant precipitation to Sogamoso. Rainfall is typically heaviest in May, June, and July, with monthly totals exceeding 150 mm. In contrast, the dry season, from December to February, is characterized by less than 50 mm of precipitation per month as the ITCZ shifts southward.

Annual Trends

Over the past decade, Sogamoso has experienced an average annual rainfall of around 800 mm. However, this amount can vary significantly from year to year. In wet years, such as 2011 and 2017, annual rainfall exceeded 1,000 mm. In drier years, such as 2019 and 2022, rainfall fell below 600 mm. These fluctuations are influenced by factors such as El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) patterns and the northward movement of the ITCZ.

Rainfall Patterns in Sogamoso, Colombia

Sogamoso, nestled in the eastern Andean highlands of Colombia, experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern characteristic of the region. Two distinct rainy seasons punctuate the year, typically occurring from March to May and September to November. During these periods, heavy rainfall is common, contributing significantly to the city’s annual precipitation, which averages around 800 mm. However, variability in precipitation is observed, with some years experiencing more pronounced rainfall than others.

In contrast to the wet seasons, Sogamoso undergoes two dry seasons, extending from December to February and June to August. During these drier periods, rainfall is scarce, and temperatures tend to be higher. The city’s unique rainfall pattern is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including its geographical location, altitude, and the prevailing wind patterns in the region. These factors combine to create a distinct climate characterized by alternating wet and dry periods throughout the year.

Geography and Climate of Sogamoso

Sogamoso is a city located in the Colombian Andes, at an altitude of over 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Due to its high elevation, the city experiences a unique and variable climate. During the day, temperatures can reach pleasant levels, while nights tend to be cold. The city receives abundant rainfall throughout the year, particularly during the rainy season from April to November. However, snowfall is a rare occurrence in Sogamoso.

Snowfall Event in 2023

In January 2023, Sogamoso experienced an unexpected and historic snowfall. The city was blanketed in several centimeters of snow, covering the streets, homes, and surrounding mountains. This event was captured by local residents who shared stunning photographs and videos of the city transformed into a winter wonderland. The snowfall was attributed to an unusually cold front that brought freezing temperatures and moisture to the region. It was a rare and remarkable occurrence that brought joy and excitement to the inhabitants of Sogamoso. The snowfall melted quickly due to the city’s higher daytime temperatures, but the memories created during this extraordinary event remain.

Average Sunshine Hours

Sogamoso, located in central Colombia, enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year. On average, the city receives approximately 1,800-2,100 hours of sunshine annually, equivalent to around 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. The dry season, which spans from December to March, is characterized by particularly high levels of sunshine, with some months receiving up to 10 hours of sunlight on a daily basis.

UV Index

The UV index is a measure of the intensity of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. In Sogamoso, the UV index ranges from moderate to high throughout the year. However, it peaks during the dry season, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM. During these hours, it is essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing to minimize the risk of sun damage to the skin and eyes. It is also advisable to seek shade or stay indoors during the peak hours of solar radiation.

Appearance and Visibility

The moon’s appearance and visibility in Sogamoso, Colombia vary throughout the month. During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible from Earth as it is located between the Sun and Earth. As the moon waxes, it gradually becomes more visible in the evening sky. The first quarter moon is visible for about half of the night. The full moon is visible for the entire night and is at its brightest and most prominent. As the moon wanes, it becomes less visible in the morning sky. The third quarter moon is visible for about half of the night.

Cultural Significance

The moon has cultural significance for many indigenous communities in Colombia, including the Muisca people who historically inhabited the Sogamoso region. The Muisca believed that the moon was a symbol of fertility and agriculture. They celebrated the full moon and believed it influenced the growth of crops and the abundance of game. The moon was also associated with menstrual cycles and the female deity Chía. Today, the moon remains a symbol of lunar cycles, fertility, and the connection between nature and human existence.

Humidity in Sogamoso, Colombia

Sogamoso, Colombia experiences a relatively humid climate throughout the year. The average annual humidity level hovers around 75-80%, with minor fluctuations across the seasons. During the wet season, which lasts from April to October, humidity levels tend to be higher, reaching up to 90% at times. This is due to the increased precipitation and cloud cover, which trap moisture in the atmosphere.

In contrast, the dry season, which occurs from November to March, brings slightly lower humidity levels, averaging around 65-70%. However, even during this period, humidity remains relatively high compared to other regions. The presence of the Andes Mountains and the city’s proximity to the Amazon rainforest contribute to the overall humidity in Sogamoso.

Wind

The winds in Sogamoso, Colombia are primarily influenced by the trade winds. These winds are easterly winds that flow from the east to the west, and they typically reach Sogamoso in the afternoon and evening. The trade winds are strongest during the dry season, which lasts from December to February. During this time, the winds can reach speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour. The trade winds are weaker during the rainy season, which lasts from March to November. During this time, the winds typically blow at speeds of around 10 kilometers per hour.

Speed and Direction

The average wind speed in Sogamoso is approximately 12 kilometers per hour. The wind direction is predominantly from the east, but it can also blow from the northeast or southeast. The wind speed and direction in Sogamoso can be affected by a number of factors, including the time of year, the weather conditions, and the local topography. For example, the wind speed can be higher during the dry season than during the rainy season. Additionally, the wind can be stronger in the afternoon and evening than it is in the morning. The local topography can also affect the wind speed and direction; for example, the wind can be stronger in areas that are surrounded by mountains than in areas that are open and flat.

General Climate:

Sogamoso, Colombia enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the seasons. The average temperature hovers around 14°C (57°F), with slight variations between the warmest and coolest months. The city experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season from December to March and the rainy season from April to November.

Best Time to Visit:

The dry season (December to March) is generally considered the best time to visit Sogamoso. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Travelers can enjoy warm days with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F) and clear skies, allowing for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the dry season is less prone to rainfall, minimizing the likelihood of interruptions or disturbances during your trip.

Solar Irradiation and Potential

Sogamoso, Colombia boasts an abundance of solar irradiation, making it a prime location for solar energy development. With an average of 5.2 kWh/m²/day, the city receives more than 1,900 hours of sunshine annually. This high level of irradiance creates a significant opportunity for solar electricity generation and the potential for meeting the city’s energy needs sustainably.

Current Solar Energy Initiatives

Recognizing its solar potential, Sogamoso has implemented several solar energy initiatives. In 2017, the city installed a 1 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant, one of the largest in the region. The plant generates approximately 1,800 MWh of electricity annually, powering public buildings and reducing the city’s carbon footprint. Additionally, various solar water heaters have been installed in residential and commercial buildings, providing clean and cost-effective hot water.

Mountains and Hills
Sogamoso, Colombia, is situated in the mountainous Boyacá region. The city is surrounded by a ring of hills, including the iconic Cerro de Monguí to the west and Cerro de Tota to the east. These hills offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. To the north of Sogamoso lies the majestic Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, a snow-capped mountain range that forms part of the Eastern Ranges of the Andes. The peaks of the Sierra Nevada soar to over 5,000 meters above sea level, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the city.

Valleys and Rivers
Nestled within the hills and mountains of Sogamoso is the fertile Sogamoso Valley. The valley is drained by the Sogamoso River, which flows through the city and irrigates the surrounding farmland. The valley is known for its rich agricultural production, including crops such as potatoes, corn, and wheat. To the east of the Sogamoso Valley lies the Tenza Valley, which is home to the Tenza River. The two valleys are connected by the Tenza-Sogamoso Pass, a strategic mountain pass that has been used for centuries to transport goods and people between the two regions.

El Yopal Airport (EYP)

El Yopal Airport (EYP) is the closest airport to Sogamoso, Colombia. It is located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from the city center. The airport is served by several airlines, including Avianca, LATAM Airlines Colombia, and Viva Air Colombia. There are daily flights to Bogotá, Medellín, and Bucaramanga. From Bogotá, you can connect to other destinations in Colombia and around the world.

Alberto Lleras Camargo Airport (BOG)

Alberto Lleras Camargo Airport (BOG) is another option for travelers flying to Sogamoso. It is located in Bogotá, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes by car from the city center. BOG is the largest airport in Colombia and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. There are several airlines that offer flights from BOG to Sogamoso, including Avianca, LATAM Airlines Colombia, and Viva Air Colombia. From BOG, you can connect to destinations throughout Colombia, as well as to major cities in North America, South America, and Europe.

Geography and Climate
Sogamoso, a city in central Colombia, is located in the Tundama Valley at an elevation of 2,527 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, with the sacred lake of Lake Tota nearby. Sogamoso enjoys a temperate climate, with an average annual temperature of 14°C. The city experiences a rainy season from April to June and a dry season from December to February.

History and Culture
Sogamoso has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was founded in 1537 by Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who named it after the indigenous Muisca cacique who ruled the region. Sogamoso was an important center for the Muisca civilization and played a significant role in the Spanish conquest of Colombia. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the colonial church of San Martín and the Casa de la Cultura, which houses a museum dedicated to the Muisca culture. Sogamoso is also known for its traditional crafts, such as wool weaving and pottery, which are still practiced by local artisans. Today, Sogamoso is a thriving city with a population of over 120,000 inhabitants. It is an important industrial and agricultural center and a popular tourist destination due to its historical sites and natural beauty.