Guatemala Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Guatemala has four types of climate. It is a country in the Americas that borders two oceans. The western side lies along the Pacific Ocean, while the eastern regions border the Gulf of Honduras. The central part of the country consists mainly of plateaus and mountains. As a result, Guatemala has a fairly diverse climate, though tropical climate types are dominant.

Temperature Variations

The average annual temperature on the coast ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). In higher areas, temperatures are much lower, averaging around 15°C (59°F). In large parts of the country, temperatures range between 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F) during the winter months, while in summer, they rise above 30°C (86°F).

Rainy and Dry Seasons

In Guatemala, the wet season is referred to as "winter," while the dry season is called "summer." The rainy season begins in May and lasts until October inland, while on the coast, it extends until December. Annual rainfall varies widely, from 500 mm (20 in) in the southwest to more than 3000 mm (118 in) in some tropical rainforest locations and in the mountains and volcanoes.

Tropical Storms and Hurricanes

Tropical storms and hurricanes can occur in Guatemala, originating from both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, though the likelihood is somewhat lower from the Pacific. The hurricane season starts in late June and lasts until November. The eastern coast is most vulnerable to hurricanes. However, once a tropical depression moves inland, it quickly loses strength.