Tehuacan Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Mexico

Climate Overview

Tehuacan, Mexico, experiences a subtropical highland climate, characterized by warm to hot temperatures throughout the year. Summer months (May to October) are typically the hottest, with average maximum temperatures reaching around 90°F (32°C). Winters (November to April) are milder, with average minimum temperatures hovering around 50°F (10°C). The city receives an average of 28 inches of rainfall annually, with most precipitation occurring during the wet season, which runs from June to September.

Seasonal Variations

In spring (March to May), temperatures gradually rise, and the weather becomes increasingly humid. April and May are often the hottest months of the year. During summer, the intense heat can be oppressive, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) and high levels of humidity. Autumn (October to November) brings a decrease in temperatures, although the weather remains warm. By winter, temperatures have cooled considerably, and nights can be chilly. Rainfall is more sporadic during this season, but occasional cold fronts can bring heavy rain and even frost.

Annual Temperature Variations

Tehuacan, Mexico, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. The city has a humid subtropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, which runs from May to October, temperatures are typically warm and humid, with an average high of 86°F (30°C) and an average low of 64°F (18°C). During the dry season, which runs from November to April, temperatures are cooler and drier, with an average high of 72°F (22°C) and an average low of 45°F (7°C).

The Coldest and Warmest Months

January is the coldest month in Tehuacan, with an average high of 68°F (20°C) and an average low of 39°F (4°C). July is the warmest month, with an average high of 95°F (35°C) and an average low of 75°F (24°C). The relatively mild winters and hot summers are a result of Tehuacan’s geographical location, as it is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains. This geography helps to trap heat during the summer months and protect the city from cold air during the winter months.

Types of Clouds in Tehuacan, Mexico

Tehuacan, Mexico, experiences a variety of cloud types throughout the year. During the dry season (November to April), clear skies are common, with occasional high-altitude cirrus clouds. As the wet season approaches (May to October), cumulus clouds become more prevalent, often evolving into towering cumulonimbus clouds that bring rainfall. During the peak of the wet season, stratus clouds may cover the sky, resulting in overcast conditions.

Influence of Altitude and Climate

The altitude and climate of Tehuacan significantly influence the formation and distribution of clouds. The city is located in a high-altitude valley, with an elevation of over 1,600 meters (5,200 feet). This elevation contributes to the formation of low-level clouds, such as stratus and cumulus, which are common during the wet season. The city’s semi-arid climate, characterized by alternating wet and dry seasons, also affects cloud formation. During the dry season, the lack of moisture in the atmosphere limits cloud development, while during the wet season, the influx of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico supports the growth of clouds and precipitation.

Annual Precipitation and Distribution

Tehuacan, Mexico, experiences significant variations in annual precipitation. The average yearly rainfall totals approximately 700 mm (27.6 in), but this amount can fluctuate considerably depending on the year and season. The wet season typically spans from May to October, during which most of the annual precipitation occurs. During this period, thunderstorms and heavy downpours are common, particularly in the afternoon and evening. However, in some years, the wet season may be more extended or intense, leading to flooding in low-lying areas. Conversely, the dry season typically runs from November to April, with minimal rainfall and occasional droughts.

Influencing Factors

The precipitation patterns in Tehuacan are primarily influenced by two key factors: the prevailing wind patterns and the location of the city within a rain shadow. The prevailing easterly trade winds carry moisture from the Gulf of Mexico towards the mountains of central Mexico, where the air rises and condenses, resulting in precipitation on the windward slopes. However, Tehuacan lies on the leeward side of these mountains, creating a rain shadow effect. As the air passes over the mountains, it loses moisture, resulting in significantly drier conditions in Tehuacan compared to the surrounding areas. Additionally, the city’s elevation, at approximately 1,650 meters (5,413 ft) above sea level, affects precipitation patterns, with higher elevations typically receiving more rainfall than lower elevations.

Average Rainfall

Tehuacan, Mexico, has an average yearly rainfall of around 500 millimeters (19.7 inches). This rainfall is concentrated in the summer months of July through September, with June and October experiencing some rain but significantly less than the summer months. The rainfall in Tehuacan is crucial for the region’s agriculture, as the area is home to several important crops such as corn, beans, and chili peppers. However, rainfall can be quite variable, with some years receiving significantly more or less rain than the average.

Drought and Flooding

One of the main challenges faced by Tehuacan’s farmers is drought. The region has experienced several severe droughts in recent years, including a particularly severe one in 2012 that caused widespread crop losses. Droughts can have a devastating impact on the local economy and food security. On the other hand, Tehuacan is also vulnerable to flooding, especially during the rainy season. Heavy rainfall can cause rivers to overflow, leading to flooding in low-lying areas of the city. Flooding can also damage crops and infrastructure, and can pose a significant risk to life and property.

Historical Snowfall in Tehuacan, Mexico

Snowfall in Tehuacan, Mexico, is a rare meteorological occurrence due to its geographical location and climate. The city is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters above sea level in central Mexico, where the average temperature typically ranges between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius (50 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). However, under exceptional circumstances, snow has been observed in Tehuacan on several occasions throughout history.

One of the most notable snowfalls in Tehuacan occurred on January 8, 1967. According to meteorological records, the city experienced a significant snowfall event that lasted for several hours. The streets and rooftops were blanketed in snow, creating a surreal and picturesque winter wonderland. Another significant snowfall event occurred in February 2023, when Tehuacan was coated in a layer of snow, accompanied by subzero temperatures. The snowfall brought a wave of excitement and joy to the local community, as it is not a common sight in the region.

Climate Overview

Tehuacán, situated in the Valley of Tehuacán-Cuicatlán, Mexico, experiences a subtropical steppe climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters. The annual average temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F), with July and August being the warmest months, averaging 25°C (77°F). January and December are the coldest months, with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is scarce, averaging around 300 mm (12 in) annually and primarily concentrated during the summer months.

Solar Radiation and UV Index

Tehuacán receives abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. UV radiation is generally high, especially during the summer months when the sun’s rays are more direct. The UV Index typically ranges from moderate to extreme during these months, requiring protective measures such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats when venturing outdoors. The high solar radiation makes Tehuacán a suitable location for solar energy projects, with excellent potential for utilizing solar panels to generate electricity.

Weather and Climate in Tehuacan, Mexico

Tehuacan, Mexico, experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city is located in a valley surrounded by mountains, which influence its weather patterns. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. The rainy season runs from May to October, during which the city receives an average of 20 inches of rainfall. Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F. During the dry season, from November to April, the city experiences little rainfall and sunny conditions.

The Influence of the Moon on the Weather

The moon’s gravitational pull affects the Earth’s tides, and it has been theorized that it may also have an influence on the weather. Some studies suggest that the moon’s phases may be correlated with changes in atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and precipitation. However, the scientific evidence for these correlations is mixed, and further research is needed to determine the exact nature of the moon’s influence on the weather.

Humidity Overview

Tehuacan, located in southeastern Mexico, experiences relatively consistent humidity levels throughout the year. The average relative humidity ranges from around 65% to 75%, creating a humid and slightly sticky atmosphere. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico contributes to its high humidity, as moisture-laden air from the sea moves inland. Tehuacan’s humidity levels remain relatively stable throughout the day, with slight fluctuations during sunrise and sunset.

Seasonal Variations

While Tehuacan’s humidity levels remain consistent overall, there are subtle variations based on the season. During the dry season, which typically lasts from November to April, humidity levels tend to be slightly lower, dipping into the 60% range. This is due to reduced rainfall and drier air masses. In contrast, during the wet season, which spans from May to October, humidity levels rise slightly, reaching an average of 70% to 80%. Increased precipitation and higher temperatures contribute to the higher humidity during this time of year. However, even during the wet season, Tehuacan’s humidity levels rarely reach uncomfortable levels, making it a generally pleasant place to live and visit.

Wind Patterns in Tehuacan

Tehuacan is a city located in the central part of Mexico, characterized by its distinct wind patterns. During the day, the prevailing wind direction is from the east, bringing in warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. This wind contributes to the formation of cumulus clouds, often leading to afternoon showers or thunderstorms. As the sun sets, the wind direction shifts to the northwest, bringing in cooler and drier air from the mountains. This nighttime wind helps to clear the skies and allows temperatures to drop.

Seasonality of Wind

The wind patterns in Tehuacan exhibit seasonal variations. During the spring and summer months, the easterly winds are more pronounced, resulting in frequent afternoon showers. In the fall and winter, the northwest winds become more dominant, bringing drier and cooler conditions. The transition between these seasons is marked by periods of strong and variable winds, known locally as “nortes.” These winds can be accompanied by heavy rain or even hail, and can cause significant damage to crops and infrastructure.

Warm and Dry Season (November to April)

The best time to visit Tehuacan is during the warm and dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (82°F). This makes for ideal conditions for exploring the city’s many historical sites, natural attractions, and hot springs. The dry season also coincides with several cultural events, including the Tehuacan Carnival and the International Festival of the Volcano.

Shoulder Season (May to October)

The shoulder season, running from May to October, can also be a good time to visit Tehuacan, although temperatures can be more extreme. The rainy season usually starts in June and brings occasional showers and thunderstorms, but it’s generally not excessive. The cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings make it more comfortable for outdoor activities. The city is less crowded during the shoulder season, and hotel rates tend to be lower.

Potential for Solar Energy in Tehuacan

Tehuacan, located in the Mexican state of Puebla, possesses significant potential for solar energy development. The city enjoys an abundance of sunlight throughout the year, with an average of over 300 clear days annually. This favorable solar resource makes Tehuacan an attractive location for photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert sunlight directly into electricity.

To harness the potential of solar energy in Tehuacan, several initiatives have been implemented. The city has established a program to promote the installation of residential and commercial PV systems, providing incentives to encourage widespread adoption. Additionally, the government has allocated funds for the construction of large-scale solar power plants in the region. One notable project is the Tehuacan Solar Farm, which, upon completion, will be one of the largest PV plants in Latin America.

Topography of the Papaloapan River Basin, Mexico

The Papaloapan River Basin in Mexico is characterized by a diverse topography. The basin is located in the southern portion of the state of Veracruz and encompasses a wide range of landforms, including mountains, valleys, and plains. The highest point in the basin is the Pico de Orizaba, a dormant stratovolcano that rises to an elevation of 5,636 meters (18,491 feet). The lowest point in the basin is the Gulf of Mexico, which forms the eastern boundary of the region.

The Papaloapan River Basin is home to a variety of vegetation types, including tropical rainforests, cloud forests, and temperate forests. The basin is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The Papaloapan River Basin is an important source of water for the state of Veracruz and is home to a number of hydroelectric dams. The region is also an important agricultural area, with crops such as corn, beans, and sugarcane being grown in the basin.

Heriberto Jara International Airport (VER)

The closest airport to Tehuacan, Mexico is Heriberto Jara International Airport (VER), located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) to the northeast in the city of Veracruz. VER is a medium-sized airport with domestic and international flights, serving as a regional hub for the Gulf of Mexico region. Major airlines operating out of VER include Aeromexico, VivaAerobus, and Volaris. A variety of ground transportation options are available at the airport, including taxis, rental cars, and public buses, making it convenient for travelers to reach Tehuacan and other nearby destinations. The drive from VER to Tehuacan typically takes around two hours.

Puebla International Airport (PBC)

Another option for air travel to Tehuacan is Puebla International Airport (PBC), located approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) to the northwest in the city of Puebla. PBC is a larger airport with a wider range of domestic and international flights, including connections to major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Airlines operating out of PBC include Aeromexico, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Similar to VER, ground transportation options at PBC include taxis, rental cars, and public buses. The drive from PBC to Tehuacan takes approximately two and a half hours. While PBC is slightly farther away from Tehuacan than VER, it may offer a more convenient flight schedule or more direct connections to certain destinations.

History and Culture

Tehuacán is a city located in southeastern Mexico in the state of Puebla. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city was founded by the Olmecs around 1500 BC and was later inhabited by the Zapotecs and Mixtecs. In the 16th century, Tehuacán was conquered by the Spanish, who established a colonial settlement there. Tehuacán’s historical significance is further enhanced by its proximity to the ancient ruins of Cantona, a major ceremonial center of the Olmecs. The city’s cultural heritage is evident in its many churches, museums, and historical landmarks, as well as its vibrant traditional festivals and celebrations.

Geography and Climate

Tehuacán is situated in the Valley of Tehuacán-Cuicatlán, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its exceptional biodiversity. The city is surrounded by mountains and arid landscapes, with the Sierra de Zongolica to the north and the Sierra de Tehuacán to the south. Tehuacán experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters. The average annual temperature is around 20°C (68°F), with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in the summer and dropping to around 10°C (50°F) in the winter. The city receives limited rainfall throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and adventures.