Climate and monthly weather forecastEsmeraldas, Ecuador

The climate of Esmeraldas

Esmeraldas, located in Ecuador, is characterized by a Tropical Rainforest climate, often referred to as the Af classification in the Köppen climate categorization. This categorization reflects the consistent, pronounced heat and heavy rainfall that mark Esmeraldas throughout the year.

Equatorial positioning affords only modest temperature fluctuations. Average high temperatures hover between 27.3°C (81.1°F) and 28.1°C (82.6°F), while low temperatures, marginally cooler, span from 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F). Throughout the year a noticeable humidity envelopes the area, with relative humidity routinely striking around 82% to 85%. These conditions affirm the region's tropical climate and foster an environment in which lush, dense vegetation thrives.

Rainfall varies appreciably throughout the year, with the heaviest accumulations occurring in January and February, at 135mm (5.31") each month. As the year progresses, this total diminishes, dropping to a modest 25mm (0.98") in September. However, numbers rebound briefly in November and December, peaking at 64mm (2.52"). In alignment with the volumetric rainfall, the quantity of rainfall days follows a similar pattern, with January possessing the greatest number at 27.9 days, and September the least, at 12.7 days.

The cloud% across the year hovers around 54% to 60% on average, while the hours of sunshine fluctuate slightly from 5.4 hours to 6.8 hours daily. Maximum windspeed typically fall from 12.2km/h (7.6mph) in January, to 15.9km/h (9.9mph) in December.

The best time to visit Esmeraldas

Given its tropical rainforest climate, selecting the best time to visit Esmeraldas can hinge upon individual weather preferences. For those seeking optimal sunshine and fewer rainfall days, July and August emerge as the leading choices. Average temperatures during these months dip to a still-warm 22.7°C (72.9°F), making for an inviting, comfortable environment. Rainfall is significantly lower at this time, averaging from 29mm (1.14") to 35mm (1.38"), with an average of 14.1 to 17.6 rainfall days. The sunshine per day extends to 6.1 hours, under a cloud cover averaging 54%, further enhancing the appeal of these months for visitors.

The worst time to visit Esmeraldas

The beginning of the year, specifically January and February, might be considered unfavorable for visiting Esmeraldas. The high precipitation exceeding 135mm (5.31") each month, coupled with up to 27.9 days of rainfall can impede outdoor activities. Despite an average of 12.1 daylight hours, only 5.4 hours to 5.9 hours of sunshine is expected due to high cloud cover around 60%. Though temperatures remain relatively steady at around 27.3°C (81.1°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), the heightened humidity of 85% may also factor into overall comfort during this time.

Spring weather in Esmeraldas

The spring months of March, April, and May in Esmeraldas present slightly less rain than the earlier months, with rainfall amounts descending from 95mm (3.74") to 85mm (3.35"). In return, the number of brighter days has risen, with increased sunshine hours from 6.4 hours to 6.6 hours per day and up to 6.1 sunshine days in May. Despite the drop in rain, relative humidity remains fairly consistent, pegged at 84% to 85%. The temperature during spring months is relatively constant, with an average high from 27.6°C (81.7°F) to 28.1°C (82.6°F) and a low from 23.5°C (74.3°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F).

Summer weather in Esmeraldas

Summer months of June, July, and August denote the driest period in Esmeraldas. Rainfall plummets to between 49mm (1.93") and 35mm (1.38"), while rainfall days reduce significantly to 18.3 days in June and eventually to merely 14.1 days in August. Hours of sunshine per day rise slightly to 6.0 hours to 6.1 hours. Temperatures remain relatively steady, with a high between 27.8°C (82°F) and 27.5°C (81.5°F), and low from 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F).

Autumn weather in Esmeraldas

Autumn months see a gradual escalation in rain, rising from 25mm (0.98") in September to 39mm (1.54") by November. In accordance with the rainfall volume, days of rainfall also increase — from 12.7 days in September to 16.3 days by November. Despite the rise in rain, autumn remains relatively warm, with temperatures fluctuating minimally, the highs ranging between 27.5°C (81.5°F) from September through November and the lows incrementing marginally from 22.8°C (73°F) to 23.5°C (74.3°F).

Winter weather in Esmeraldas

Winter in Esmeraldas, namely December, sees a continuation of the warm temperatures characteristic of the tropical rainforest climate with the average high of 27.5°C (81.5°F) and low of 23.3°C (73.9°F). Rainfall amounts increase to 64mm (2.52") while the daylight hours remain constant at 12.1 hours corresponding to 5.6 hours of sunshine. With a relative humidity of 82%, the winter months bear witness to the start of the wetter season.

Weather in January

Applausively transitioning from the colder months, January in Esmeraldas, Ecuador atmosphere introduces with an average high of 27.3°C (81.1°F) and a low of 23.5°C (74.3°F). Despite this mild temperature, there lies a high humidity rate, making the weather feel slightly warmer yet comfortable. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Only a subtle shift separates the weather conditions from January to February. Esmeraldas encounters the highest rainfall for the year with 135mm (5.31") precipitation noted during this month. It is an equally temperate month, an amalgamation of soft sun rays with velvet-like breezes rustling through the city. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March emerges, there is a discernible tapering off in the rainfall, moving towards drier conditions. The cloud percentage reduces slightly, irradiating more sunshine and daylight into the beautiful city. The humidity rate remains steady, maintaining the cozy warmth. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Esmeraldas sees a continuation of the weather pattern of March, with a relatively consistent temperature range and wind speed. The rainfall dwindles further to 104mm (4.09"), marking a lean period in precipitation. It is also in April that the town experiences heightened visibility, making it an ideal period for sightseeing and city expeditions. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings a slight warming of temperatures and a further reduction in rainfall to 85mm (3.35"). The duration of sunshine incrementally increases, permitting longer spells of clear skies over Esmeraldas. The city basks in a comfortable warmth, broadening the canvas for outdoor enthusiasts. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June charts the lowest relative humidity for the year at 83%, triggering slight crispness to the air. While the temperatures do not shift drastically, the subtleties in the atmospheric pressure nuances the weather. The gusty winds reach their yearly peak during this month, amplifying the refreshing feel of the city. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July resonates with the feel of June in many ways, albeit with a slightly cooler climate. Witnessing the least rainfall in the year at 35mm (1.38"), the month embraces the city in its driest garb. The days are marked by the dominance of the sun, shining brightly over the town. Weather in July »

Weather in August

From July to August, Esmeraldas witnesses a continuation of dry and relatively mild weather conditions. Though the cloud cover remains consistent, it does not hamper the impressively high sunshine duration. Despite warm temperatures, the cool wind flow modulates the weather, keeping it pleasing. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September sticks closely to the preceding month's weather pattern, with only slight increases in rainfall and relative humidity. Visibility remains excellent, providing unhindered views of the city's stunning landscapes. Interestingly, the wind achieves a balance, neither too stagnant nor too blustery, blowing at a measured pace. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Trailing from September, October in Esmeraldas sees a sudden spike in rainfall, marking the advent of the rainy season. Raindrops tapping on window panes become a common sight, depicting the city in a different hue. With the cloud cover increasing, the sunshine reduces slightly, and the temperatures remain comfortable. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November steers the climate towards a more potent rainy pattern, with a slight increase in precipitation levels. The wind speed remains almost constant, disturbing the leaves just enough to maintain a serene environment. The city gets a bit more sun-loved that calms the moist conditions. Weather in November »

Weather in December

The last month of the year, December, stands out with high rainfall accumulation at 64mm (2.52"). Esmeraldas, blanketed in the regular downpour, showcases a spectacular mix of sun and rain. The temperature dips a bit from November, instilling a freshness to the cityscape. Weather in December »