The Latin American countries They have a remarkable variety of tropical climate regionsThis condition is characterized by high temperatures for most of the year, accompanied by abundant rainfall or by the alternation between rainy and dry seasons, depending on the specific area. Tropical climate It is the engine of extraordinary biodiversity, but it also poses significant challenges for those who live in these areas.
Currently, the climate change It is altering the regularity of rainfall, temperatures, and the hurricane season, raising concerns among meteorologists and environmental experts. The influence of geographic factors such as altitude, proximity to the ocean, and mountainous terrain creates a mix of tropical microclimates, the understanding of which is essential for sectors such as agriculture, urban management, and even public health.
Latin American cities with tropical climates
In Latin American cities such as Flores (Guatemala), Santiago de los Caballeros (Dominican Republic), Acapulco and Mazatlán (Mexico), Cali, Colombia) o Cartago (Costa Rica), the tropical climate defines daily life. In many of them, the climatic structure includes a wet season with torrential rains and another dry, although the differences can be notable depending on the specific location.
Eg FlowersThe tropical savanna climate determines two clearly distinct seasons: a prolonged dry season and a brief but very rainy season. This subtype predominates south of the city, while the presence of rainforest in other areas favors more regular rainfall throughout the year.
En Santiago de los CaballerosDespite the predominance of tropical climates, the trade winds and altitude somewhat mitigate the high temperatures and usual humidity. The city enjoys temperatures that can range between 22 and 34 degrees Celsius, with July and August being the hottest months, and December and January the coolest. Rainfall, however, is spread out throughout the year, with a wet season that runs from May to November and the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes at certain times.
En Mexico, coastal cities like Acapulco de Juarez y Mazatlan They have a humid tropical climate influenced by both the Pacific Ocean as well as the country's geography. Average temperatures are usually around 26 degrees Celsius year-round, with peaks that can reach up to 36 degrees Celsius and even higher temperatures in the height of summer. The rainy season runs from May to November, when hurricanes and tropical storms can have a significant impact, especially in the months of August and September.
Both cities experience distinct dry and wet seasons, with humidity that can cause muggy conditions, especially in the summer. Although hurricanes affect certain regions more intensely, the risk varies depending on the location and proximity to the sea.
Geographic factors and subtypes of tropical climate
The tropical climate, although it has common features such as heat and moisture, is fragmented into numerous subtypes depending on altitude, relief and distance from the sea. For example, in Cali, ColombiaThe tropical climate is characterized by a warm, dry environment, with daytime temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and milder nights. The city experiences two particularly rainy seasons: from March to May and from October to December, which mark the rhythm of daily life and the planning of economic and social activities.
En Carthage, Costa Rica, the division between the Central Valley and The Caribbean Region This implies notable differences in the distribution of rainfall and temperatures. In the Caribbean region, constant rainfall and high temperatures predominate, while in the central valley, the altitude causes greater thermal variability and less regular rainfall. In addition, the country experiences direct influences from the relief, oceanic winds, and its proximity to the equator. You can learn more about the importance of the rainforest in regulating the global climate.
Colombia is also notable for its variety of microclimates within the tropical climate regime: from rainforest zones with intense rainfall to savanna areas with alternating dry and wet seasons. The mountainous terrain and the presence of the Amazon and other forested regions make this diversity possible.
Impact of climate change on the tropical climate
Climate change problematic It is having significant effects in tropical climates by altering rainfall patterns, increasing the frequency and severity of extreme events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, and raising average temperatures. Experts have detected a trend toward less predictable rainfall and longer periods of drought, affecting agriculture, water supply, and the quality of life in cities.
En MexicoFor example, a decrease in annual rainfall and a significant rise in temperatures are expected, putting crops at risk and generating episodes of heat stress in major cities. Coastal cities increasingly face the threat of hurricanes and flooding, while inland areas may suffer heat waves and lack of rain.
In Central America and the Caribbean, countries such as Guatemala and Dominican Republic Their traditional wet and dry seasons are disrupted, complicating agricultural planning and increasing vulnerability to natural disasters.
The tropical climate and daily life
Living in an area of tropical climate involves adapting to high temperatures, heavy rains at certain times and a moisture almost constant. This climate favors the existence of jungles, forests and a wide biodiversity, but also demands adequate infrastructure and warning systems for severe weather events.
In urban tropical areas, planning must consider possible floods, periods of drought and hurricane risk. For sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and public health, anticipating weather variations is key. Understanding tropical climate subtypes allows not only for better adaptation, but also for the preservation of natural resources and the well-being of the population.
Cities and regions under tropical climates are increasing weather monitoring and promoting climate resilience policies to address current and future challenges.
