Climate and monthly weather forecastArica, Chile

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.

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 »