Tumbes Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Peru
Climate
Tumbes, Peru boasts a tropical savanna climate, characterized by consistent warmth year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures remain relatively stable throughout the year, averaging between 77°F and 86°F (25°C and 30°C). The dry season, which lasts from May to October, witnesses very little precipitation, with average monthly rainfall below 1 inch. The wet season, extending from November to April, brings more significant rainfall, with monthly averages reaching 4 inches. The city experiences its peak rainfall during February and March.
Average Weather
Throughout the year, Tumbes enjoys ample sunshine and warm, humid conditions. During the dry season, the air is generally drier, and the sky is often clear. However, during the wet season, humidity levels rise, and rainfall becomes more frequent. Nevertheless, the rain typically falls in short, intense bursts, leaving plenty of time for outdoor activities and beach enjoyment. The average annual temperature in Tumbes is 80°F (27°C), with August being the warmest month and February the coolest. The city also experiences occasional sea fog during the dry season, which can bring a welcomed reprieve from the heat.
Climate in Tumbes, Peru
Tumbes, Peru, located in the northwestern corner of the country, experiences a warm and humid tropical climate. Throughout the year, temperatures remain relatively constant, with little variation between seasons. The average temperature ranges from approximately 80°F (27°C) to 90°F (32°C), providing a pleasant and consistent climate for outdoor activities. The warmest months are typically January and February, while the coolest months are usually June and July.
Rainfall in Tumbes, Peru
Tumbes receives a significant amount of rainfall, averaging around 50 inches (127 centimeters) per year. The rainy season typically lasts from December to April, with the wettest months being February and March. During this period, Tumbes experiences heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Conversely, the dry season runs from May to November, with minimal precipitation. This dry season provides ideal conditions for exploring the region’s many attractions, such as the beaches, historical sites, and natural reserves.
Cloud Characteristics
Clouds in Tumbes, Peru, are typically characterized by their abundance and diversity. During the summer months (December to April), towering cumulus clouds dot the skies, often accompanied by occasional showers. As the rainy season approaches, the clouds become more extensive, forming large, anvil-shaped thunderclouds that bring heavy rainfall. However, during the winter months (May to November), clouds are generally scarce, with clear skies dominating much of the time.
Seasonal Patterns
The seasonal distribution of clouds in Tumbes is strongly influenced by the region’s proximity to the equator. During the summer, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) moves southward, bringing with it moist, unstable air that favors cloud formation. This results in frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Conversely, during the winter, the ITCZ shifts northward, leaving Tumbes under the influence of the South Pacific high-pressure system. This stable air mass suppresses cloud development, leading to the dry season characterized by clear skies.
Monthly Precipitation
Tumbes, Peru experiences a highly seasonal precipitation pattern, with the vast majority of rainfall occurring during the austral summer months (December to April). During this period, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) migrates southward, bringing with it abundant moisture that results in frequent and heavy precipitation. The monthly precipitation totals can exceed 200 mm (8 inches) in January, the wettest month of the year.
Annual Precipitation
The average annual precipitation in Tumbes is approximately 750 mm (30 inches). However, there is significant interannual variability, with some years receiving as little as 500 mm (20 inches) and others receiving over 1,000 mm (40 inches). This variability is influenced by factors such as ocean currents and atmospheric circulation patterns, which can affect the strength and duration of the rainy season. Despite the variability, the overall precipitation trend in Tumbes has been relatively stable in recent decades.
Rainfall Patterns
Rainfall in Tumbes, Peru, exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern influenced by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). During non-El Niño years, Tumbes receives minimal rainfall from May to November, with average monthly precipitation below 10 millimeters. The wet season occurs between December and April, bringing heavy rains with monthly precipitation often exceeding 100 millimeters. These rainfall patterns are closely linked to the seasonal movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which brings moisture-laden air to the region during the wet season.
Interannual Variability and Impacts
The ENSO phenomenon exerts a significant influence on the interannual variability of rainfall in Tumbes. During El Niño years, the ITCZ shifts eastward, resulting in reduced rainfall in Tumbes. The region may experience extended periods of drought, with annual precipitation falling well below the average. Conversely, during La Niña years, the ITCZ shifts westward, leading to increased rainfall in Tumbes. This can cause heavy flooding and landslides, disrupting agricultural activities and infrastructure. The unpredictability of rainfall patterns associated with ENSO poses significant challenges for water resource management, food security, and disaster preparedness in the Tumbes region.
Unprecedented Occurrence
Tumbes, a coastal city in northwestern Peru, has historically enjoyed a warm and dry climate. However, on July 28, 2023, the city witnessed an extraordinary weather event as snowfall blanketed the streets. This unprecedented phenomenon sent shockwaves through the local community and garnered international attention.
Scientific Explanations
Scientists speculate that an unusual combination of weather patterns contributed to the snowfall in Tumbes. A strong cold front from the Antarctic collided with warm, moisture-laden air from the Pacific Ocean, creating a favorable environment for precipitation. Additionally, the topography of the coastal region, with its hills and valleys, likely played a role in channeling the cold air and trapping it within the city.
Sun Intensity and Radiation
Tumbes, Peru is located in a region of the world that receives exceptionally high levels of solar radiation. The city experiences approximately 3,000 sunshine hours per year, with an average daily radiation of 5.5 kWh/m². This intense solar radiation is primarily due to Tumbes’ proximity to the equator and its location on the western coast of South America, exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Impact on Health and Climate
The high solar intensity in Tumbes has several implications for the local population. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to skin damage, eye problems, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Therefore, it is crucial for residents to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen, when venturing outdoors during peak sunshine hours. Additionally, the intense solar radiation contributes to Tumbes’ warm and dry climate, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) throughout the year. The abundant sunshine also supports the growth of tropical vegetation and agriculture in the region.
Astronomical Significance
Tumbes, Peru, holds a unique astronomical significance as it is situated near the equator, providing observers with an excellent view of the celestial sphere. The city is renowned for its clear skies and stable atmospheric conditions, making it an ideal location for astronomical observations. A highlight of Tumbes’ astronomical appeal is the observation of the moon, which appears larger and brighter due to its proximity to the equator. Lunar eclipses are another spectacular sight, with Tumbes often being within the path of totality, offering observers an unforgettable celestial event.
Cultural Significance
The moon has deep cultural significance in Tumbes, Peru. The indigenous Moche people, who inhabited the region centuries before the arrival of Europeans, revered the moon as a sacred celestial body. They incorporated lunar imagery into their art, pottery, and textiles, symbolizing the moon’s influence on agriculture, fertility, and the tides. The Moche believed that the moon played a pivotal role in the cycles of life and death, as well as the changing seasons. Today, the moon remains an important symbol in Tumbes culture, inspiring festivals, rituals, and artistic expressions that pay homage to its celestial significance.
Seasonal Humidity Variations
Tumbes, Peru, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity levels. During the dry season, which runs from May to November, humidity levels are generally low, averaging around 60-70%. However, during the rainy season, which spans from December to April, humidity levels rise substantially, with average humidity levels reaching 80-90%. The increase in humidity during the rainy season is attributed to the influx of moisture-laden air from the Pacific Ocean.
Impact of Humidity on Tumbes
The fluctuating humidity levels in Tumbes have a noticeable impact on the local climate. During the dry season, the low humidity levels contribute to warm and sunny days, with average temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, during the rainy season, the high humidity levels lead to muggy and overcast conditions, with average temperatures remaining around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). The increased humidity can also make it feel hotter than the actual temperature, leading to discomfort and increased sweating.
Seasonal Patterns of Wind in Tumbes
Tumbes, Peru, experiences a predictable pattern of wind throughout the year. During the dry season, from May to December, strong southerly winds known as “paracas” dominate the region. These winds originate from the Southern Hemisphere and can reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour, contributing to Tumbes’ arid climate. In contrast, the wet season, from January to April, brings weaker and more variable winds from the north. The transition periods between seasons are characterized by a mix of both southerly and northerly winds, creating a more moderate breeze.
Impact of Wind on the Environment
The prevailing southerly winds during the dry season play a significant role in shaping Tumbes’ ecosystem. The strong winds carry sand from the coastal dunes, forming the iconic pampas that dominate the landscape. Additionally, the paracas winds evaporate moisture from the vegetation, leading to a lack of precipitation and a dry environment. On the other hand, the weaker northerly winds during the wet season facilitate cloud formation and can bring sporadic rainfall to Tumbes. These contrasting wind patterns create a unique and dynamic natural habitat, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species adapted to the arid and semi-arid conditions.
Best Time to Visit for Adventure and Wildlife:
For those seeking adventure and wildlife encounters, the best time to visit Tumbes, Peru, is during the dry season from June to October. During this period, the weather is stable and sunny, providing ideal conditions for exploring the region’s stunning beaches, estuaries, and mangrove forests. The waters are calm and clear, allowing for exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences. This is also the prime time to spot diverse marine life, including sea turtles, humpback whales, and a variety of fish species. Bird enthusiasts will delight in observing numerous migratory and resident bird species that frequent the region’s coastal wetlands.
Best Time to Visit for Beach and Sun:
For those primarily interested in sunbathing and beach activities, the ideal time to visit Tumbes is from December to March. During this period, the temperatures are at their warmest, and the rainfall is minimal. The long, sandy beaches along the coast provide ample space for relaxation and sunbathing. The ocean waters are warm and inviting, perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. However, it’s important to note that during these summer months, the region can experience occasional periods of high humidity, especially in the afternoons.
Solar Potential in Tumbes
Tumbes, located in northwestern Peru, boasts exceptional solar energy potential due to its proximity to the equator and the low cloud cover in the region. The area experiences high levels of solar irradiance throughout the year, with an annual average of over 5 kWh/m2/day. This abundance of sunshine makes solar power an attractive and viable energy source in Tumbes.
Development and Benefits
Recognizing the immense potential of solar energy, the Peruvian government has invested in promoting its development in Tumbes. Several solar projects have been implemented in the region, including the 40 MW Talara Solar Plant, which began operating in 2021. This investment has contributed to the diversification of Peru’s energy mix and has also brought economic benefits to the Tumbes region. Solar projects create jobs, stimulate local economies, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making them a valuable asset for sustainable development in the area.
Eastern Andes and Coastal Plain
The topography of Tumbes, Peru, is characterized by two distinct regions: the Eastern Andes and the Coastal Plain. The Eastern Andes, located in the eastern part of the department, are a rugged and mountainous region with elevations reaching up to 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). The Andes are home to several peaks, including Cerro Campanas (2,865 meters) and Cerro Amarillo (2,756 meters). The slopes of the Andes are covered with dense vegetation, including forests and grasslands.
Coastal Plain
The Coastal Plain, which lies along the Pacific coast, is a narrow strip of land that is relatively flat and low-lying. The plain is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Andes to the east. The climate in the Coastal Plain is arid, with little rainfall. The soils in the Coastal Plain are sandy and fertile, making them ideal for agriculture. The Coastal Plain is home to several major cities, including Tumbes, the capital of the department, and Zorritos.
Tumbes Airport (TBP)
Tumbes Airport (TBP) is the nearest airport to the city of Tumbes in Peru. It is a small regional airport located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center. The airport has one runway that is 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) long and can accommodate small to medium-sized aircraft. TBP is served by several airlines, including LATAM Airlines and Star Peru, which offer flights to Lima and other cities in Peru. The airport has basic amenities, including a waiting area, a cafe, and a currency exchange counter. It is also equipped with a modern terminal building that can accommodate up to 300 passengers.
Other Airports in Peru
In addition to Tumbes Airport, there are several other airports in Peru that serve the northern region of the country. These include:
- Piura Airport (PIU) is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Tumbes. It is a larger airport with a longer runway that can accommodate larger aircraft. PIU offers flights to Lima, Cusco, and other cities in Peru.
- Chiclayo Airport (CIX) is located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Tumbes. It is a major regional airport that offers flights to Lima, Cusco, and other cities in Peru.
- Trujillo Airport (TRU) is located about 300 kilometers (185 miles) south of Tumbes. It is the largest airport in the northern region of Peru and offers flights to Lima, Cusco, and other cities in Peru.
History and Culture
Tumbes, nestled in northwestern Peru, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The region has been inhabited for centuries, with archaeological evidence suggesting human presence dating back to the Pre-Columbian era. In the 15th century, Tumbes became a significant trading center for the Inca Empire. The Incas established a major temple and administrative center in the area, leaving behind impressive ruins that can still be explored today. After the Spanish conquest, Tumbes became an important port city, serving as a gateway for trade and exploration. The city’s cultural heritage is a blend of indigenous, Inca, and Spanish influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditional arts.
Natural Environment
Tumbes is renowned for its breathtaking natural environment. The region is characterized by a tropical climate, lush vegetation, and stunning beaches. The Tumbes National Forest is a protected area that showcases the region’s biodiversity. It is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the spectacled bear and the yellow-tailed woolly monkey. The mangroves along the riverbanks provide a vital ecosystem for wildlife and support a thriving fishing industry. The warm waters of the Pacific Ocean invite visitors to enjoy swimming, surfing, and other water sports. Tumbes’ natural beauty and pristine beaches have made it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and beachgoers alike.