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Contents
- The climate of Arica
- The best time to visit Arica
- The worst time to visit Arica
- Spring weather in Arica
- Summer weather in Arica
- Autumn weather in Arica
- Winter weather in Arica
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Arica
Arica, situated on the edge of Chile, is enveloped by the Subtropical Desert. Based on the Köppen climate classification, the predominant climate is BWh. Enhancing the effect of this desert climate, the Humboldt Current's cold and low saline waters flow parallel to the coast of Chile, resulting in a phenomenon referred to as temperature inversion.
Throughout the year, Arica's climate manifests perennial warm figures. High temperatures oscillate moderately from 18°C (64.4°F) in July to 23.9°C (75°F) in February, low temperatures wavering from 13.1°C (55.6°F) to 20.6°C (69.1°F) during the same period. Consistently over the months, relative humidity hovers around 80% indicating a moisture-laden atmosphere.
Moreover, lowly dispersed sea temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F) reflect the effect of the chilling Humboldt Current. Exceptionally, the difference between the maximum and minimum average wind speed remains contained: 1.1km/h (0.7mph) to 2.1km/h (1.3mph), with gusts up to 17.1km/h (10.6mph). Noteworthy is the UV index, which maintains a uniform intensity of 5 during most months except in the summer months when it steps up to 6, cautioning inhabitants and visitors about sunburn risks.
The most striking feature of the Arica climate is its negligible rainfall. Accumulated precipitation scarcely reaches 10mm (0.39") in February reverting to 3mm (0.12") in November, then inching to 7mm (0.28") in December. Adding to this, the number of rainfall days per month is rather low, with as slight as 1.6 days in November.
Throughout the year, Arica's climate manifests perennial warm figures. High temperatures oscillate moderately from 18°C (64.4°F) in July to 23.9°C (75°F) in February, low temperatures wavering from 13.1°C (55.6°F) to 20.6°C (69.1°F) during the same period. Consistently over the months, relative humidity hovers around 80% indicating a moisture-laden atmosphere.
Moreover, lowly dispersed sea temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F) reflect the effect of the chilling Humboldt Current. Exceptionally, the difference between the maximum and minimum average wind speed remains contained: 1.1km/h (0.7mph) to 2.1km/h (1.3mph), with gusts up to 17.1km/h (10.6mph). Noteworthy is the UV index, which maintains a uniform intensity of 5 during most months except in the summer months when it steps up to 6, cautioning inhabitants and visitors about sunburn risks.
The most striking feature of the Arica climate is its negligible rainfall. Accumulated precipitation scarcely reaches 10mm (0.39") in February reverting to 3mm (0.12") in November, then inching to 7mm (0.28") in December. Adding to this, the number of rainfall days per month is rather low, with as slight as 1.6 days in November.
The best time to visit Arica
Taking into account the consistency of the weather parameters in Arica, the most suitable time for a visit from a visitor’s perspective is between May and September when the relative humidity is at its lowest. During these months, the daylight span can reach a peak of 11 hours, sea temperature around 16.5°C (61.7°F), and sea pressure around 1016.7mb.
The worst time to visit Arica
Despite Arica's almost consistent climate, a less favorable period for a visit is from November to December when sunshine hours are at their maximum, marking the advent of summer. Furthermore, November experiences the fewest rainfall days in a year, just 1.6, but December presents a contrast with a sharp rise in rainfall to 7mm (0.28").
Spring weather in Arica
As early as August, Arica welcomes spring with temperatures that range from 13.1°C (55.6°F) to 17.4°C (63.3°F). The daily sunshine hours undergo an increase, moving from 9.7 hours in August to 9.9 hours in September, complemented by a daylight average of 11.5 hours. With moderate wind speeds between 10.6km/h (6.6mph) to 11.8km/h (7.3mph), Arica showcases its mildly comforting windy season. Nonetheless, rainfall remains a trivial character throughout the spring, barely exceeding 4mm (0.16") in any month.
Summer weather in Arica
Summer months experience the highest average temperatures in Arica, rising from 19.1°C (66.4°F) in November to a peak of 23.9°C (75°F) in February. As expected, the sea temperature follows suit, reaching the year’s highest of 21.8°C (71.2°F) in February. The summer period also witnesses increased humidity levels, hovering around 81% - 82%, matched with extended daylight of around 13 hours in December.
Autumn weather in Arica
Arica's autumn ushers in reduced humidity levels, standing between 80% and 82%. Mid-autumn months of March and April hold nearly steady high temperatures of 23.2°C (73.8°F) and 22.1°C (71.8°F) respectively. Surprisingly, this period marks the highest wind speeds, reaching 12.3km/h (7.6mph) in April and gusts up to 17.1km/h (10.6mph). Despite these, rainfall remains a rarity, fluctuating from 3mm (0.12") to 4mm (0.16").
Winter weather in Arica
Winter weather in Arica is defined by the temperatures lowering to the year's lowest, with July's averages going from 13.5°C (56.3°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Correspondingly, the sea temperature also dips to its year's lowest of 15°C (59°F). Interestingly, the UV index remains steady at 5, indicating a moderate chance of damage from unprotected sun exposure.
Weather in January
Observing the meteorological statistics, January in Arica, Chile, stands out as one of the warmer months, kicking off the year with pretty high temperatures. The sea temperature, typically at 21.3°C (70.3°F), offers inviting conditions for both locals and tourists alike. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Replying to the appeal of the warm season, Feburary carries on the agreeable conditions of January, although there is a slight increase in average sea and air temperature. With the areas of rainfall coming in at an average of 10mm (0.39") during this period, the odd shower does not seem to put much of a damper on outdoor activities. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As March rolls in, Arica, Chile begins to experience slightly cooler temperatures and fewer rainy days. It's is apparent that the rainfall registered at 4mm (0.16") and there are typically fewer days with precipitation. As March progresses and makes way for April, the noticeable decrease in temperature continues, marking the onset of the cooler season. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Taking a look at April's weather, a shift is seen as Arica moves from the high temperatures of summer towards the cooling trend of autumn. The average sea temperature dips to 18.3°C (64.9°F), indicating less ideal conditions for water-based activities. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May, earmarked by further cooling, hosts even lower average temperatures while still maintaining rather comfortable weather in Arica, Chile. Beginning with the shifting weather conditions, the rainfall increases slightly to reach an average of 4mm (0.16"). Weather in May »
Weather in June
Progressing into June, the winter season starts to be pleasantly felt in Arica, Chile, with an average low temperature at 14.8°C (58.6°F) and a decline in the sea temperature to 16.5°C (61.7°F). Venturing into July from June, expect similar conditions with marginally cooler temperatures especially in the evenings. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Arica, Chile brings in the peak of the winter season with temperatures dipping further, especially during the night. Sea temperatures decrease to 15.2°C (59.4°F), marking a significant change, distinctly felt by water enthusiasts. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August sees a gradual recovery from the coldest point of winter, with a slight increase in average temperatures. Slightly warmer conditions are enjoyed with sea temperatures gently clawing back to around 15°C (59°F). AUGUST sees a continuation of the rising temperature trend as we transition from this month to September. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As Spring beckons, September warms up from the lower average temperature of 17.8°C (64°F) seen in August. However, this is also when wind speeds are at their peak, reaching an average of 11.8km/h (7.3mph). Expect further warming and wind speed increase, as September gives way to October. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October invites in a significant increase in average temperatures, which translates into a palpable shift in the weather condition. Arica sees a peak wind speed of 12.3km/h (7.6mph), which may add a sharp coolness to the air despite the increased temperature. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November sees a further escalation in temperatures, approaching the peak summer season in Arica, Chile. The sea surface temperature warms up to 17.4°C (63.3°F), amidst the warmer conditions of November. As November transitions into December, anticipate an even more considerable rise in temperature. Weather in November »
Weather in December
To conclude the year, December showcases the heat of the summer season with the maximum temperatures seen in the year. Sea temperatures reach a cosy 19.6°C (67.3°F), which is conducive for an array of water activities in Arica, Chile. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the rainiest month in Arica?
The wettest months in Arica are January and February, with an average 10mm (0.39") of rainfall.
How much does it rain in Arica?
Throughout the year, there are 43 rainfall days, and 61mm (2.4") of precipitation is accumulated.
What are the months with the highest UV index in Arica?
The months with the highest UV index in Arica are January through March and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What part of the year is the hottest in Arica?
February is the month that records the highest temperatures, with averages ranging from a high of 23.9°C (75°F) to a low of 20.6°C (69.1°F).
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Arica?
With an average sea temperature of 21.8°C (71.2°F), February is the month with the warmest seawater in Arica, Chile.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Arica?
The months with the least sunshine in Arica are February and March, with an average of 9.2h of sunshine.
What are the most humid months in Arica?
April and December, with an average relative humidity of 82%, are most humid months.
What is the driest month in Arica?
April and November are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 3.6 days and typically aggregates up to 3mm (0.12") of rain.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Arica?
On Sunday, 07. April 2024, at 00:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from -03 to -04. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 08. September 2024, at 00:00, and the time zone reverts from -04 to -03.
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Arica?
The months with the lowest UV index in Arica are April through November, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the month with the shortest days in Arica?
With an average of 11h and 0min of daylight, June has the shortest days of the year in Arica, Chile.
What is the least humid month in Arica?
July is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
What part of the year is the coldest in Arica?
August stands out as Arica's coldest month, with temperatures ranging between an average high of 17.4°C (63.3°F) and a low of 13.1°C (55.6°F).
When is the sea coldest in Arica?
With an average sea temperature of 15°C (59°F), August is the month with the coldest seawater in Arica.
What month has the most sunshine in Arica?
With an average of 9.9h of sunshine, August has the most sunshine of the year in Arica, Chile.
When are the longest days in Arica?
December has the longest days of the year in Arica, with an average of 13h and 12min of daylight.
Average temperature
Arica, Chile
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (23.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is August (17.4°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is February (20.6°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is August (13.1°C).
Average pressure
Arica, Chile
- Average pressure in January:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1013.1mbar - Average pressure in March:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1014.6mbar - Average pressure in May:
1015.9mbar - Average pressure in June:
1016.5mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1016.7mbar - Average pressure in August:
1016.5mbar - Average pressure in September:
1016mbar - Average pressure in October:
1015.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1014.2mbar - Average pressure in December:
1013.7mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is July (1016.7mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1013.1mbar).
Average wind speed
Arica, Chile
- Average wind speed in January:
11km/h - Average wind speed in February:
10.4km/h - Average wind speed in March:
11km/h - Average wind speed in April:
11.5km/h - Average wind speed in May:
11km/h - Average wind speed in June:
10.6km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
10.5km/h - Average wind speed in August:
10.6km/h - Average wind speed in September:
11.8km/h - Average wind speed in October:
12.3km/h - Average wind speed in November:
12.3km/h - Average wind speed in December:
11.7km/h
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are October and November (12.3km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is February (10.4km/h).
Average humidity
Arica, Chile
The months with the highest relative humidity are April and December (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (77%).
Average rainfall
Arica, Chile
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are January and February (10mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are April and November (3mm).
Average rainfall days
Arica, Chile
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
4.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
3.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
3.5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
1.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
1.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (7.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (1.6 days).
Average sea temperature
Arica, Chile
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is February (21.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is August (15°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Arica, Chile
- Average daylight in January:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
11h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in November:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in December:
13h and 1min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 13h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 11h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 9h and 54min).
The months with the least sunshine are February and March (Average sunshine: 9h and 12min).
Average sunshine days
Arica, Chile
- Average sunshine days in January:
15.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
19.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
10.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
11 days - Average sunshine days in October:
13.2 days - Average sunshine days in November:
14.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
19.8 days
The month with the most sunshine days is December (19.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (10.4 days).
Average UV index
Arica, Chile
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March and December (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Arica, Chile
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 32).
The months with the least cloud cover are August and September (Cloud cover 10).
Average visibility
Arica, Chile
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Arica, Chile
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