Climate and monthly weather forecastOruro, Bolivia

The climate of Oruro

Situated at the heart of Bolivia, Oruro inhabits a unique category in the Köppen climate classification, the BSk or mid-latitude steppe. This classification represents lands that experience semi-arid climates, characterized by short, dry warm season with potential for occasional precipitation. Throughout the year, Oruro presents a fascinating profile of diverse climatic conditions, with its capricious weather patterns spelling out the climate story of this region.

Analyzing the climatological data presents a clear picture of how the temperatures and precipitation vary across the year. Average high temperatures mostly linger from 15°C (59°F) to 19°C (66.2°F), with the peak warmth recorded in October and November at 19°C (66.2°F). On the colder side of the spectrum, average lows can plummet to as low as -6°C (21.2°F) during June, subsequently rising to a mildly chilly 3°C (37.4°F) by the year-end. A stark contrast in highs and lows denotes a significant day-night temperature difference, customary to semi-arid regions.

In terms of precipitation, Oruro's steppe climate is noticeable. Moisture-rich months are fewer, with January and February collecting the highest rainfall of 94mm (3.7") and 84mm (3.31") respectively. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days also peaks during these months, with January amassing 14 days of rainfall. As the year progresses, rainfall dips steadily, reaching absolute minimal rates of 3mm (0.12") in June and July.

Oruro experiences a modest spread of sunshine hours, usually situated between 6 to 9 hours per day. Day length also varies across the year, from an 11.1-hour day in June to 13.2 hours in December. The UV index in Oruro remains relatively high, a common trait in cities with higher altitudes with a twelve-month range from 8 to 12.

The best time to visit Oruro

Determining the best time to visit Oruro is primarily dependent on what visitors seek from their travels. Those desiring to exploit the warmth and get the most out of the outdoor excursions should consider visiting between October and November as average high temperatures reach upwards of 19°C (66.2°F). Moreover, rainfall is quite minimal during these months, ensuring less disruption of outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Oruro

Oruro may present challenging conditions for potential visitors during the winter months, specifically May through July. The average low temperatures during these months dwell around -3°C (26.6°F) to -6°C (21.2°F), encompassing the lowest recorded temperatures of the year. These months also present a decrease in daylight hours, potentially curtailing sight-seeing and outdoor adventures.

Spring weather in Oruro

Spring, extending from September to November in Oruro, ushers in a milder weather climate, with average high temperatures hovering between 16°C (60.8°F) to 19°C (66.2°F) and lows ascending from -1°C (30.2°F) to 2°C (35.6°F). Rainfall remains low in September and October at 15mm (0.59"), however, it witnesses an increase in November, standing at 33mm (1.3").

Summer weather in Oruro

Summer time in Oruro, from December through February, sees an upswing in temperatures. Average highs gravitate around 16°C (60.8°F) to 19°C (66.2°F) with lows averaging out between 2°C (35.6°F) and 3°C (37.4°F). Precipitation is highest during these months, exceeding 84mm (3.31"), with the majority of rainfall recorded in January.

Autumn weather in Oruro

Autumn creeps into Oruro from March till May, bringing a perceptible dip in temperatures. The average highs linger between 16°C (60.8°F) in March and April down to 15°C (59°F) in May, while lows plunge from 2°C (35.6°F) to -3°. Rainfall steadily decreases during this period from 51mm (2.01") in March down to 5mm (0.2") in May.

Winter weather in Oruro

Winter in Oruro extends from June through August and quite predictably, brings in some harsh weather conditions. Average high temperatures persist between 15°C (59°F) to 16°C (60.8°F) while lows plunge drastically to -4°C (24.8°F) to -6°C (21.2°F). The rainfall is least during these months sticking around 3mm (0.12"), with less frequent rainfall days.

Weather in January

January weather in Oruro, Bolivia, is characterized by cool temperatures and significant rainfall. While this month often holds the highest rainfall for the entire year, reaching amounts as high as 94mm (3.7"), it also brings balmy temperatures, favorable for various activities. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February sees the continuation of cool temperatures and abundant precipitation in Oruro. This month witnesses rainfall of around 84mm (3.31"), making it one of the wettest months of the year. Despite the continued rainfall, the decrease from January's precipitation is noticeable and marks the beginning of a transition into drier months. Weather in February »

Weather in March

When March arrives in Oruro, the city begins to experience significant changes in its weather. The city's pre-dominating climatic conditions of cooler temperatures and substantial precipitation progressively shift towards a drier climate. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Oruro bears witness to the most considerable drop in rainfall, reducing from 51mm (2.01") in March to merely 15mm (0.59"). Along with this marked reduction in rainfall, temperature ranges also begin taking a cooler turn, especially during nighttime. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May continues the trend of declining rainfall in Oruro, Bolivia, reaching as low as 5mm (0.2"), achieving a nearly waterless status. Along with this minimal precipitation, nights become significantly cooler, accentuating the city's semi-arid climate. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June, one of Oruro’s winter months, sees temperatures drop drastically, and it usually records the year's coldest nights. With the city receiving as little as 3mm (0.12") of rainfall, the arid nature of Oruro is particularly accentuated during this month. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July signals the middle of the winter season in Oruro, Bolivia, with temperatures reaching some of the year's lowest. The city's arid nature continues to shine with a meager 3mm (0.12") of rainfall, highlighting one of the driest months of the year. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Oruro equates to another month of aridity with a slight increase in rainfall from 3mm (0.12") in July to 10mm (0.39"). With temperatures still low, this month displays a continuation of the winter season. However, foreseen signs of impending spring become apparent with increasing daylight. Weather in August »

Weather in September

With September commences the spring season in Oruro, Bolivia. A noticeable increase in rainfall, from 10mm (0.39") in August to 15mm (0.59"), signals the end of the city's semi-arid season. The combination of warmer days, the onset of additional rainfall, and increasing daylight hours suggest tangible weather changes. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Oruro is a time of balance between the city's arid past and its forthcoming wetter months. The rainfall touching 15mm (0.59") is similar to September's, but the progressive increase in temperatures indicates an imminent change. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Oruro, Bolivia, is a month of noticeable transitions. Specifically, the steep jump in rainfall to 33mm (1.3") marks the month's shift towards wetter conditions. Increasing temperatures and daylight hours contribute to the city's evolving weather landscape. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Oruro, Bolivia, welcomes warmer temperatures along with increased rainfall, reaching up to 64mm (2.52"). This rise in precipitation is a precursor to the city's wet season, which comes full circle from the arid conditions earlier in the year. Weather in December »