Tecpan Guatemala Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Guatemala

Average Weather Year Round

Tecpan Guatemala experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by warm and humid conditions throughout the year. The annual average temperature is 26.2°C (79.2°F), with little variation between months. The warmest months are April and May, with average temperatures of 28°C (82°F), while the coolest months are January and February, with average temperatures of 24°C (75°F).

Rainfall is abundant and occurs year-round, with the wet season lasting from May to October. The rainiest months are June and September, with average rainfall exceeding 300 mm (12 inches). The dry season lasts from November to April, with monthly rainfall typically below 50 mm (2 inches). However, even during the dry season, occasional showers and thunderstorms can occur.

Average Temperature Overview

Tecpan Guatemala, Guatemala experiences tropical weather with relatively consistent temperatures year-round. January is the coolest month, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). August is the warmest month, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F).

Seasonal Variations

The wet season in Tecpan Guatemala runs from May to October, while the dry season spans from November to April. During the wet season, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler due to increased cloud cover and precipitation. In the dry season, temperatures are typically higher due to less cloud cover and more sunshine. The temperature difference between the wet and dry seasons is not significant, with average temperatures remaining within a narrow range throughout the year.

Cloud Types and Characteristics

Tecpan Guatemala, Guatemala, experiences a wide variety of cloud types due to its tropical location and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Cumulus clouds are common during the day, appearing as puffy cotton balls. They typically dissipate at night, leaving clear skies. Stratus clouds are also frequent, forming a uniform gray layer that covers the sky, often leading to drizzle or light rain. During the rainy season, towering cumulonimbus clouds may appear, accompanied by thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Influence on Climate and Weather

Clouds play a crucial role in shaping the climate and weather patterns in Tecpan Guatemala. Cumulus clouds help regulate temperatures by reflecting sunlight and preventing the ground from overheating. Stratus clouds can provide shade, reducing evaporation and contributing to a cooler and more humid environment. Cumulonimbus clouds, on the other hand, are associated with intense rainfall and can lead to flooding and other weather hazards. In general, the presence of clouds can affect the amount of solar radiation reaching the surface, influencing the local temperature and precipitation patterns.

Monthly Precipitation Pattern

Tecpan Guatemala experiences a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season typically begins in May and lasts until October, with peak rainfall occurring between June and September. During these months, the city receives an average of 10-15 inches of rain per month. The dry season spans from November to April, during which time rainfall is significantly reduced, averaging less than 2 inches per month.

Annual Precipitation Totals and Variability

Tecpan Guatemala’s annual precipitation averages between 50 and 60 inches, with some years receiving significantly more or less. The variability is influenced by a combination of factors, including El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events, which can disrupt precipitation patterns in the region. During strong El Niño years, precipitation tends to be below average, while La Niña years often bring wetter conditions. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean can contribute to increased rainfall during tropical storms and hurricanes.

Seasonal Distribution

Tecpan Guatemala experiences a distinct seasonal variation in rainfall patterns. The rainy season typically spans from May to October, with the peak rainfall occurring in September. During this period, the weather is characterized by frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. In contrast, the dry season extends from November to April, with minimal precipitation and relatively low humidity. The annual rainfall in Tecpan Guatemala averages around 1,500 millimeters, with most of the rain falling during the wet season.

Meteorological Influences

The rainfall patterns in Tecpan Guatemala are influenced by several meteorological factors. The Pacific Ocean’s proximity contributes to the frequent rainfall during the rainy season. As moisture-laden air from the ocean moves inland, it encounters the mountains of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas, resulting in orographic lifting and subsequent rainfall. Additionally, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a band of low pressure near the equator, migrates northward during the wet season, bringing heavy rainfall to the region. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) also plays a role, with El Niño events often leading to reduced rainfall in Tecpan Guatemala during the dry season.

Historical Snowfall Events

Snowfall is an extremely rare occurrence in Tecpan Guatemala, Guatemala, situated in a tropical climate zone. As such, there is limited recorded history of snowfall events in the region. However, on January 24, 2013, an exceptional cold front brought unseasonably cold temperatures and a light dusting of snow to Tecpan Guatemala. This event marked the first documented snowfall in the city’s recent history, capturing the attention of both locals and meteorologists around the world.

Causes of Snowfall

The snowfall in Tecpan Guatemala was the result of a combination of factors, including an unusually cold air mass from the north and sufficient moisture in the atmosphere. A strong high-pressure system over the United States directed cold Arctic air towards Central America, causing temperatures to plummet in the region. Additionally, a low-pressure system over the Pacific Ocean brought moisture-laden clouds to the area. As the cold air met the moisture, snow crystals formed and fell over Tecpan Guatemala. The snowfall was light and melted quickly due to the warm ground temperatures, but it left behind a surreal and enchanting wintery scene.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Tecpan Guatemala, Guatemala, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun. Generally, the sunrise occurs between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, while the sunset takes place between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. However, during the summer months, the sun rises and sets later, with sunrise occurring around 6:00 AM and sunset around 7:00 PM. Conversely, during the winter months, the sun rises and sets earlier, with sunrise occurring around 5:00 AM and sunset around 6:00 PM.

Daylight Hours

The number of daylight hours in Tecpan Guatemala varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun. Generally, the longest day of the year occurs around June 21st, with approximately 13 hours of daylight. The shortest day of the year occurs around December 21st, with approximately 11 hours of daylight. The average number of daylight hours throughout the year is approximately 12 hours. This variation in daylight hours affects the local climate, agriculture, and daily routines of the people living in Tecpan Guatemala.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Tecpan Guatemala

The moonrise and moonset times in Tecpan Guatemala vary throughout the month due to the Earth’s orbit around the sun. On average, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, following a predictable pattern. The exact times for moonrise and moonset can be found in local newspapers, weather apps, or online astronomical resources.

Influence on Tides and Fishing

The moon’s gravitational pull has a significant influence on the tides in Tecpan Guatemala. The moon’s orbit around the Earth causes the ocean to bulge out slightly on the side facing the moon, creating high tides. On the opposite side of the Earth, the ocean also bulges out, creating another high tide. As the Earth rotates, different parts of the coast experience high and low tides throughout the day. Many experienced fishermen in Tecpan Guatemala use the moon’s position to determine the best times to fish, as the movements of fish are often tied to the tides and the moon’s phases.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Tecpan Guatemala experiences high humidity throughout the year, with average annual values ranging between 70% and 85%. The humidity levels fluctuate with the seasons, with the highest humidity occurring during the rainy seasons from May to October. During this period, daily humidity levels can reach up to 90% or more, especially during the evening hours. The lowest humidity occurs during the dry seasons from November to April, with average values dropping to around 60-70%.

Factors Influencing Humidity

Several factors contribute to the high humidity in Tecpan Guatemala. The city’s proximity to Lake Amatitlán and the Rio Michatoya creates a humid environment. Additionally, the surrounding mountains trap moisture, preventing air from circulating effectively. Furthermore, the tropical climate of Guatemala results in warm, moist air that further contributes to the elevated humidity levels.

Wind Patterns in Tecpan Guatemala, Guatemala

Tecpan Guatemala, a municipality in the department of Chimaltenango, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by its rugged terrain and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. During the dry season (November to April), strong northeasterly winds known as “nortes” prevail, bringing cold and dry air from the Gulf of Mexico. These winds can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph), creating gusty and sometimes uncomfortable conditions.

In contrast, the wet season (May to October) brings southwesterly winds from the Pacific, carrying moisture-laden air to the region. These winds, known as “surazo,” often produce afternoon thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. The wind speeds are typically lower during this period, ranging from 10 to 25 km/h (6 to 16 mph). Overall, the wind patterns in Tecpan Guatemala contribute to the municipality’s unique climate, characterized by well-defined wet and dry seasons.

Best time to visit for weather:

The best time to visit Tecpan Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rain. The average temperature in Tecpan during the dry season is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 29 degrees Celsius). The humidity is also relatively low during this time, making it a comfortable time to travel.

Best time to visit for events and festivals:

If you are interested in experiencing the local culture, the best time to visit Tecpan is during the town’s annual festival, which is held in February. During the festival, there are a variety of events and activities, including traditional music and dance performances, food stalls, and a parade. The festival is a great opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Tecpan.

Benefits and Challenges of Solar Energy in Tecpan Guatemala

Tecpan Guatemala has abundant sunlight, making solar energy a promising renewable resource. It offers numerous benefits, including reducing dependence on fossil fuels, cutting carbon emissions, and providing a sustainable power source. Furthermore, solar energy systems can be installed on rooftops or open land, making them suitable for various applications.

However, there are also challenges associated with solar energy adoption in Tecpan Guatemala. The initial investment cost for installing solar panels can be high, and the intermittent nature of sunlight poses challenges for reliable power generation. Additionally, limited technical expertise and a lack of public awareness can hinder the widespread adoption of solar energy.

Mountains and Hills

The topography of Tecpan Guatemala is characterized by a series of rugged mountains and hills. The Sierra Madre Occidental, a major mountain range, runs through the region, creating a series of peaks that dominate the landscape. The highest peak in the region is the Cerro Tecpan, which stands at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet). Other notable peaks include the Volcán Santa María, a dormant volcano that is a popular hiking destination. The hills in the region are typically steep and often covered in dense vegetation.

Valleys and Rivers

Between the mountains and hills of Tecpan Guatemala, there are a number of valleys. These valleys are often fertile and support agriculture. The largest valley in the region is the Valle de Tecpan, which is home to the city of Tecpan Guatemala. The valley is drained by the Río Tecpan, a river that flows through the region and provides water for irrigation and drinking. Other rivers in the region include the Río Salamá, the Río Motozintla, and the Río Cutzamala. These rivers are important sources of water for the local population and contribute to the region’s biodiversity.

La Aurora International Airport

La Aurora International Airport (IATA: GUA, ICAO: MGGT), also known as Guatemala City International Airport, is the primary airport serving Guatemala City and the surrounding region. It is located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) south of the city center and is the busiest airport in Central America, handling over 2.5 million passengers annually. La Aurora Airport is a hub for several major airlines, including Avianca, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. It offers direct flights to destinations throughout Central and North America, as well as Europe and South America. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.

Mundo Maya International Airport

Mundo Maya International Airport (IATA: FRS, ICAO: MGTK) is an international airport located in the municipality of Flores, Petén, Guatemala. It serves the northern region of Guatemala, including the popular tourist destination of Tikal. Mundo Maya Airport is the second-largest airport in Guatemala and handles over 500,000 passengers annually. It is served by several regional airlines, including TAG Airlines, Avianca Express, and Aeroméxico Connect. The airport has one terminal and offers direct flights to Guatemala City, Cancun, Mexico City, and San Salvador.

History and Geography

Tecpán Guatemala is a city and municipality in the Chimaltenango department of Guatemala. It is located 72 kilometers west of Guatemala City, the capital of the country. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, and its climate is temperate. Tecpán Guatemala was founded in 1524 by Spanish conquistadors, and it served as the capital of Guatemala from 1527 to 1541. In 1773, the city was destroyed by an earthquake, and it was rebuilt in its present location. Tecpán Guatemala is an important cultural and historical center, and it is home to many colonial-era buildings.

Culture and Economy

Tecpán Guatemala is known for its traditional textiles, which are woven on backstrap looms. The city is also home to a number of churches, convents, and other religious buildings. The economy of Tecpán Guatemala is based on agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts. The city is a popular destination for tourists, who come to see its colonial architecture, its traditional textiles, and its beautiful surroundings. Tecpán Guatemala is also a major producer of coffee, sugar cane, and vegetables. The city is home to a number of markets, where visitors can buy traditional handicrafts, produce, and other goods.