Panama City, Panama boasts a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round, making it a prime destination for those who love warm weather.
On average, temperatures range from 80.5°F in the cooler months to 84°F during the hottest parts of the year.
Rainfall is a key feature of the climate here, with the city experiencing 131 rainy days and accumulating up to 75 inches of precipitation annually.
The weather conditions in Panama City can be broken down by months to provide a clearer picture of what to expect.
From January to April, the city sees its driest and sunniest period, making it an ideal time for tourists to visit.
The average temperatures during these months are around 83°F, with minimal rainfall.
On the other hand, June stands out as the month with the warmest water, hitting an average of 84°F, perfect for water activities and beach outings.
For those who want to explore more about the climate in Panama City, historical weather data shows slight variations.
Marcos A. Gelabert Airport, which is located nearby, reports consistent data that helps in understanding the seasonal patterns and weather expectations.
By examining this data, visitors can better plan their trips, ensuring they experience the best weather conditions Panama City has to offer.
For detailed charts and more specific monthly weather information, visit the Panama City climate guide.
Average Temperature in Panama City, Panama
Panama City experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
In January, the average temperature is about 80°F. February sees a slight increase to around 80.3°F. By March, temperatures rise to approximately 82°F.
| Month | Average Temperature |
|---|---|
| January | 80°F |
| February | 80.3°F |
| March | 82°F |
| April | 83°F |
| May | 82°F |
| June | 81°F |
| July | 81°F |
| August | 81°F |
| September | 81°F |
| October | 80.5°F |
| November | 80.5°F |
| December | 80.5°F |
April is typically the hottest month with average temperatures reaching 83°F. The high temperature during this month can make the city feel quite warm.
During the months of October and November, the average temperature drops slightly to around 80.5°F. This period is still warm but less intense compared to the earlier part of the year.
Monthly temperatures stay quite consistent throughout the year, rarely falling below 79°F or rising above 84°F.
The perceived temperatures can feel higher due to the humidity typical of a tropical climate.
The coolest months, such as March, see temperatures around 78°F, making it one of the more comfortable times of the year.
Average Precipitation in Panama City, Panama
Panama City experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, making it important to understand the city’s climate patterns. The information below provides an in-depth look at the average precipitation, including rainfall and other relevant data.
Average Rainfall in Panama City, Panama
Panama City has a tropical climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The city sees the most rainfall from May to December.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.5 |
| February | 0.7 |
| March | 1.1 |
| April | 3.1 |
| May | 11.4 |
| June | 8.9 |
| July | 8.2 |
| August | 9.3 |
| September | 9.4 |
| October | 11.5 |
| November | 11.3 |
| December | 3.9 |
The wettest months are May, October, and November, each with over 11 inches of rainfall.
During the rainy season, which lasts from May to December, heavy showers are common in the afternoons.
The driest months are February and March, with less than 1 inch of rain.
This period is known as the dry season, offering respite from the frequent rains.
Average Snow in Panama City, Panama
Due to Panama City’s tropical climate, it does not experience any snow. The temperature remains consistently warm year-round, and precipitation is exclusively in the form of rain.
Snowfall is impossible given the city’s proximity to the equator and its sea level location.
The average temperature ranges from 75°F to 90°F, ensuring zero snowfall throughout the year.
Average Sun in Panama City, Panama
Panama City experiences abundant sunshine throughout the year. This section details the average daily shortwave solar energy the city receives, highlighting fluctuations that may impact daily activities and energy consumption.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Panama City, Panama
Panama City’s location near the equator results in substantial exposure to shortwave solar energy.
Average daily solar energy ranges between 4.0 to 6.6 kWh per square meter.
Monthly Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy:
| Month | kWh/m² |
|---|---|
| January | 5.4 |
| February | 5.5 |
| March | 5.8 |
| April | 6.0 |
| May | 5.8 |
| June | 5.6 |
| July | 5.4 |
| August | 5.3 |
| September | 5.0 |
| October | 5.0 |
| November | 5.2 |
| December | 5.3 |
This high level of solar energy supports various activities, from solar power generation to outdoor sports.
The UV index is consistently high due to intense sunlight, so it is vital to use sun protection to avoid skin damage.
Average Humidity in Panama City, Panama
Panama City experiences high humidity levels throughout the year. Humidity tends to be higher during the rainy season and slightly lower during the dry months. However, it remains fairly consistent, creating a tropical climate.
Monthly Humidity Levels
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 81% |
| February | 79% |
| March | 79% |
| April | 83% |
| May | 85% |
| June | 85% |
| July | 85% |
| August | 84% |
| September | 85% |
| October | 86% |
| November | 86% |
| December | 84% |
The table above shows how humidity varies by month.
Dew Point
The dew point in Panama City also remains consistently high, contributing to the area’s humid conditions.
The dew point often ranges from 72°F to 77°F, which indicates high moisture levels in the air.
During the peak of the rainy season, usually from May to November, higher humidity combines with high dew points, making the air feel even warmer.
Humidity Impact
Due to high humidity, the air often feels sticky, especially during the rainy season. This can affect comfort levels and make outdoor activities more challenging.
Understanding these humidity trends can help in planning activities and packing appropriately for a trip to Panama City.
High humidity levels also mean that lightweight, breathable clothing is advisable year-round.
Average Wind in Panama City, Panama
The average wind speed in Panama City varies throughout the year. It’s generally mild, with few significant fluctuations.
Here is a summary of the average wind speeds by month in Panama City:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 4.3 |
| February | 4.8 |
| March | 4.5 |
| April | 3.9 |
| May | 3.6 |
| June | 3.9 |
| July | 4.0 |
| August | 4.1 |
| September | 3.7 |
| October | 3.5 |
| November | 3.6 |
| December | 4.0 |
The windiest month in Panama City is February, with wind speeds reaching an average of 4.8 mph.
Wind conditions are typically calmer during the rainy season months like May and October.
This period reflects lower average speeds, usually around 3.5 to 3.7 mph.
Average Air Quality in Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama generally enjoys good air quality throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) often reflects a safe environment for outdoor activities.
Monthly AQI Levels
| Month | AQI Level |
|---|---|
| January | Good (0-50) |
| February | Good (0-50) |
| March | Good (0-50) |
| April | Good (0-50) |
| May | Good (0-50) |
| June | Good (0-50) |
| July | Good (0-50) |
| August | Good (0-50) |
| September | Good (0-50) |
| October | Good (0-50) |
| November | Good (0-50) |
| December | Good (0-50) |
The air quality in Panama City is best during the rainy season, which runs from May to November.
Rain helps reduce air pollutants by washing away particles from the atmosphere.
Other Weather Factors
- Pressure: On average, air pressure in Panama City is about 29.7 inches of mercury.
- Visibility: Visibility is typically good, though it may decrease during heavy rain.
- Sea Temperature: The sea temperature around Panama City ranges between 77°F to 84°F, making it pleasant for swimming year-round.
Residents and visitors can check real-time updates on air quality from platforms like AccuWeather and IQAir.
Consistently good air quality makes Panama City a healthy place for outdoor activities and tourism.
Topography of Panama City, Panama
Panama City, located in Central America, sits on the Pacific Ocean side of the country.
The city’s average elevation is about 151 feet.
Some areas, especially closer to the coastline, are lower in elevation with some places having a minimum elevation of approximately -10 feet.
The city is also positioned at a latitude of roughly 8.99° N. This location plays a role in its tropical climate and the varying weather patterns seen throughout the year.
Elevation Highlights
- Average Elevation: 151 feet
- Minimum Elevation: -10 feet
- Highest Elevation: 46 meters (around 151 feet)
Key Locations and Their Elevations
| Location | Elevation (ft) |
|---|---|
| Calidonia | 151 |
| RÃo Abajo | 427 |
The terrain is diverse with coastal areas and higher grounds further inland.
This variety in elevation creates unique weather and temperature patterns across the city.
The topography affects not only the climate but also the urban development and infrastructure.
The combination of coastal proximity and varying elevations contributes to the city’s unique landscape and weather.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Panama City, Panama
Panama City experiences a variety of extreme weather events throughout the year. These include intense rainfall, thunderstorms, floods, droughts, and occasional tropical storms.
Heavy rainfall is common, especially during the rainy season from May to November.
This can result in flooding and landslides. In Panama City, rainfall can measure up to 75 inches annually.
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.7 |
| July | 10.5 |
| November | 14.8 |
Thunderstorms are frequent during the rainy season.
These storms can bring strong winds and heavy rain, often leading to flash floods.
Occasional electrical storms can cause power outages and damage to infrastructure.
Panama City is also prone to droughts, particularly during El Niño events.
These periods of low rainfall can severely impact water supply and agriculture.
In areas like Boquete, the weather can be more extreme due to its elevation, experiencing more intense storms and rainfall variations.
The San Blas Archipelago is also vulnerable to extreme weather, particularly tropical storms which can cause significant damage to this group of islands.
Storm systems approaching Panama City have the potential to cause significant severe weather, such as intense wind and heavy rain, leading to widespread flooding and disruption.
During such extreme weather events, the city’s infrastructure can be heavily impacted.
Poor weather forecasts further exacerbate the situation, making it harder to prepare for and mitigate these events.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Panama City, Panama
Panama City, Panama, experiences tropical weather throughout the year, but each season has its unique characteristics. If you plan on visiting, you should consider these seasonal variations to pick the best time for your trip.
What is Panama City, Panama Like in Spring
Spring in Panama City runs from March to May. This period marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the wet season.
March and April are still relatively dry with plenty of sunshine, making them ideal for beach visits and outdoor tourism activities.
May introduces more frequent rain showers but remains warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit.
It’s wise to pack light, breathable clothing for the day and a rain jacket for sudden showers.
Tourist crowds are moderate in the spring, offering a balanced experience of good weather and fewer crowds.
What is Panama City, Panama Like in Summer
Summer in Panama City spans June to August and is part of the wet season.
Rainfall is frequent, and humidity levels are high.
Despite the wet conditions, temperatures hover between the mid-70s and high 80s Fahrenheit.
These months are great for visitors interested in exploring indoor attractions, such as museums and restaurants.
Packing waterproof gear, including raincoats and waterproof shoes, can make your visit more comfortable during this time.
Tourists looking for deals might find better rates on hotels and flights due to the rainier weather.
| Month | Average High Temp (°F) | Average Low Temp (°F) | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| June | 87 | 75 | 9.5 |
| July | 87 | 75 | 8.7 |
| August | 87 | 75 | 8.5 |
What is Panama City, Panama Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, is the height of the rainy season.
October is typically the wettest month, with an average rainfall of about 14 inches.
Daytime temperatures remain warm, ranging from mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. High humidity levels are common.
Outdoor activities may be limited due to frequent heavy rains.
Those visiting during this period should pack waterproof clothing and be prepared for indoor activities.
The upside is that this period is less crowded, offering a quieter experience for those who prefer to avoid the tourist crowds.
What is Panama City, Panama Like in Winter
Winter in Panama City, from December to February, is considered the dry season. This period offers the most pleasant weather, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
Sunshine is abundant, making it the best time to visit Panama for outdoor activities and exploring.
Tourism peaks during these months, so expect larger crowds and potentially higher prices for accommodations and flights. Packing lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended to protect against the sun.
Booking travel and lodging in advance can help secure better deals.