Climate and monthly weather forecastFortaleza, Brazil

The climate of Fortaleza

Positioned near the equator, Fortaleza, a vibrant city in Brazil, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, also known as a savanna climate, according to the Köppen climate classification. The As category, under which Fortaleza falls, is characterized by a 'summer' dry season. With a minimum average temperature of 22.4°C (72.3°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), the city maintains a remarkably consistent climate pattern throughout the year.

Observed throughout the year, the humidity levels are relatively high, ranging from 73.7% to 85.2%. The tropical setting that encapsulates Fortaleza influences a generally balmy and humid atmosphere. The seasonal fluctuations are minor, with the highest humidity typically experienced in April (85.2%) and the lowest in November (73.7%).

In terms of precipitation, Fortaleza’s rainy season extends mainly from February to May, resulting in average rainfall from 205mm (8.07") to 356mm (14.02"). Heaviest rainfall is observed in April, with 356mm (14.02") distributed over 21 days, while the driest period occurs towards the end of the year from August to November, registering less than 35mm (1.38") of rainfall per month.

Funneling into the city’s climate narrative is Fortaleza’s sea temperature data, which ranges from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 28.9°C (84°F). Integrally, daylight hours display minor fluctuations, oscillating from 11.9 hours to 12.3 hours throughout the year. The city also experiences abundant sunshine, with hours reaching as low as 4.8 hours in March and soaring to a bountiful 9.4 hours from September to November, contributing to its alluring outdoor appeal. Temperatures and UV index levels vault together, with the latter remaining at a risk-prone level of 10 to 12 throughout the year.

The best time to visit Fortaleza

Given the tropical climate and the slight variations in weather parameters, the best time to visit Fortaleza can be largely subjective, depending on individual preferences. Nonetheless, tourists are often advised to visit during the dry season, typically between August and November, which is characterized by negligible rainfall, generous sunshine hours (averaging 9.4 hours), and slightly lower humidity (around 74%).

Summary of the Worst Time to Visit Fortaleza

While there's never a particularly bad time to visit Fortaleza, the city's rainy season, predominantly from February to May, might not appeal to all. This period typically signals reduced sunshine hours, with a low of 4.8 hours in March, an increased average rainfall peaking at 356mm (14.02") in April, and relatively high humidity, which could potentially hinder outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Fortaleza

Spring in Fortaleza stretches from September to November, represented by a gradual ascent in temperature ranging from 29.9°C (85.8°F) to 30.7°C (87.3°F). The sea temperature, correspondingly, rises from 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 27.8°C (82°F). Rainfall during this period is the lowest, dropping from 23mm (0.91") over 5 days in September to a meager 12mm (0.47") over 3 days in November. The city basks under 9.4 hours of daily sunshine coupled with humidity levels stand at 74%-75.9%.

Summer weather in Fortaleza

December ushers in the summer in Fortaleza, which lasts up till March. Temperatures during this period are marginally higher, clocking between 29.7°C (85.5°F) and 30.7°C (87.3°F), while sea temperatures stand between 27.8°C (82°F) and 28.9°C (84°F). The early phase of the city's rainy season commences at the start of this season,with rainfall starting at 44mm (1.73") in December to a staggering 356mm (14.02") in March. Humidity levels proportionately climb, ranging from 75.9% to 85.2%.

Autumn weather in Fortaleza

Autumn in Fortaleza from April to June is primarily marked by a decrease in temperature, starting from a high of 29.7°C (85.5°F) in April and reaching 29.5°C (85.1°F) in June. The sea temperature sees a downward trend from 28.9°C (84°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F) over the season. Rainfall begins to diminish from 356mm (14.02") in April to 95mm (3.74") by June, whereas the humidity levels follow a similar pattern, ranging from 85.2% to 78.8%.

Winter weather in Fortaleza

Fortaleza’s winter, extending from July to August, brings a minimal decrease in temperature, from 29.5°C (85.1°F) in July to 29.9°C (85.8°F) in August. Sea temperatures drop to a yearly low of 26.8°C (80.2°F). This is also a notably dry period, with minimal rainfall at 22mm (0.87") over 5 days in August, making it a preferable period for visitors who opt for drier weather conditions. Sunshine hours peak to 9.5 hours during this period and humidity levels stand between 75.3% and 78.8%.

Weather in January

Kickstarting the year in Fortaleza, Brazil, January presents a striking mix of air, water and sunshine elements. The display of the month sees a typical high temperature of 30.5°C (86.9°F) combined with relative humidity reaching 78.1%. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February's weather profile in Fortaleza creates quite the tropical paradise with comfortable high temperatures and higher humidity levels. Compared to January, the month experiences an increase in rainfall to 205mm (8.07"), making it a showstopper for those who enjoy the magic of the rain. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Fortaleza transitions into March, the city experiences a noteworthy increase in rainfall, peaking to a significant 323mm (12.72"). The temperature continues to hover around the 30-degree mark with a slight dip from the previous months. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Fortaleza brings with it the highest average rainfall of the year, an impressive 356mm (14.02") spread across 21 days. This is paired with marginally lower high and low temperatures, making it a cooler month compared to its predecessors. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Come May, Fortaleza experiences a sharp decrease in rainfall, signaling the retreat of the heavy showers. Temperatures remain consistent with previous months while the sea temperature dips to 28.6°C (83.5°F). A notable characteristic of May is the increase in sunshine hours to 6.7, allowing more daylight to bask in the city's vibrant life. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Fortaleza marks the beginning of the relatively dry period with rainfall dropping to 142mm (5.59") and less frequent rainy days. The city experiences a subtle decrease in high and low temperatures, reigning in an air of coolness. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Fortaleza's weather profile in July is primarily defined by a further reduction in rainfall to 95mm (3.74"). The city's temperature continues its seasonal downward trend, bestowing the city with a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Stepping into August in Fortaleza, expect to experience a drastic drop in rainfall, tapering to a mere 22mm (0.87"). While the temperature, humidity and daylight hours remain relatively constant, the sea temperature continues its gradual decline to 26.8°C (80.2°F). Weather in August »

Weather in September

September is marked by the dry season in Fortaleza, with the average rainfall amount scarcely changing at 23mm (0.91"). The decrease in rainfall pairs well with steady temperatures hovering near the 30-degree mark. Relative humidity slightly drops as does the temperature of the sea, marking 26.6°C (79.9°F) at its surface. Weather in September »

Weather in October

The weather in October in Fortaleza is dominated by decidedly stable climatic conditions. Rainfall hits a low point, averaging 13mm (0.51"), while temperatures resume consistency in the higher 20s°C. Sea temperatures start rising again, providing a pleasant 26.8°C (80.2°F) for beach lovers. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November navigates towards warmer conditions with the low temperature rising to 24.4°C (75.9°F) and sea temperatures warming up to 27.3°C (81.1°F). The city experiences less rain, quantity resting at 12mm (0.47"). November’s sunshine holds at 9.4 hours daily, making Fortaleza a hub of vitality and vigor. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Bringing the year to an end, December in Fortaleza follows the trend with its climatic uniformity. A slight increase in rainfall to 44mm (1.73") marks the weather changes, while temperatures stabilize around the high 29°C (84.2°F) to low 24°C (75.2°F) mark. Weather in December »