Lima receives very little rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of about 9 millimeters. However, the city experiences a phenomenon called “garúa,” which is a light mist or drizzle that occurs during the winter months.
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Lima, the capital city of Peru, is known for its dry and arid climate. The amount of rainfall in Lima is quite minimal, with an average annual precipitation of about 9 millimeters. However, despite the low amount of rainfall, the city experiences a unique weather phenomenon called “garúa.” Garúa refers to a light mist or drizzle that occurs during the winter months, creating a damp and foggy atmosphere.
This distinctive weather pattern in Lima has been described by locals and travelers alike. In the words of Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, “Garúa is an essential element of the coastal landscape, that diffuse humidity, which condenses in a pigment barely perceived but very persistent.” The presence of garúa adds a touch of mystery and charm to the city’s climate, creating a poetic backdrop for its vibrant culture and historical sites.
Intriguing facts about Lima’s rainfall patterns:
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Desert climate: Lima is located in the desert region of Peru, known as the Atacama Desert. As a result, the city experiences scarce rainfall throughout the year.
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Extremely dry summers: The summer months in Lima, from December to April, are characterized by almost no rainfall at all. Instead, the city enjoys long periods of sunny and warm weather.
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Winter phenomenon: The garúa mist typically occurs from May to October, which corresponds to the winter season in Lima. During this time, the city’s average temperature drops, and the misty drizzle provides a respite from the arid conditions.
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Impact on vegetation: The limited rainfall, combined with the garúa mist, influences the plant life in Lima. The city is home to numerous species of cacti and succulents that have adapted to survive in the dry climate.
To provide a comprehensive overview of Lima’s rainfall, here is a table showcasing the average monthly precipitation throughout the year:
| Month | Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.5 |
| February | 0.5 |
| March | 0.5 |
| April | 0.5 |
| May | 0.5 |
| June | 0.5 |
| July | 0.2 |
| August | 0.2 |
| September | 0.2 |
| October | 0.2 |
| November | 0.2 |
| December | 0.5 |
Please note that these values are approximate and may slightly vary from year to year. Nonetheless, it is evident that Lima receives very little rainfall across all months of the year, emphasizing its dry climate and the significance of the garúa phenomenon.
I discovered more data
During the year, there is virtually no rainfall in Lima. According to the Köppen-Geiger classification, the prevailing climate in this region is categorized as BWh. The average temperature in Lima is 18.9 °C | 66.1 °F. The annual precipitation in this location is approximately 203 mm | 8.0 inch.
Response video to “How much does it rain in Lima?”
The unique climate of Lima, Peru is characterized by mild temperatures, rolling fogs, and very little rain, despite being located in the tropics. The Andes mountains and the Humboldt ocean current create stable atmospheric conditions that prevent rain formation. Despite its desert-like climate, Lima has managed to provide water for its needs through underground springs and rivers sourced from the Andes. Remote communities along the coast have even resorted to collecting fog droplets to obtain clean water. Lima, with its unusual climate, has become one of the largest cities in the world.
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| Location | Latitude | Annual precipitation |
|---|---|---|
| Talara | 4.58° S | 26 mm (1.0 in) |
| Lima | 12.05° S | 16 mm (0.63 in) |
| Tacna | 18.01° S | 18 mm (0.71 in) |
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