Quito, Ecuador – Climate and Average Weather Year Round: A Comprehensive Guide

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is known for its spring-like weather all year round.

The average temperature in Quito hovers around 58°F, with highs reaching 69°F and lows dipping to 47°F. This consistency makes Quito a pleasant destination regardless of the season.

In terms of rainfall, Quito experiences a fair amount annually, with around 7.20 inches of precipitation.

The city’s weather is also influenced by its high relative humidity, which stays at about 75%.

Quito’s elevation at over 9,000 feet above sea level provides it with a unique climate compared to other cities in Ecuador, such as Guayaquil and Manta.

The city’s cloud cover can reduce sunshine hours, especially in December, limiting it to about 5.4 hours per day.

The weather is typically calmer from September to June, with April being the calmest month, with an average hourly wind speed of 2.9 miles per hour.

For more specific details, check out this climate and weather chart for Quito.

Average Temperature In Quito, Ecuador

Quito has a mild climate throughout the year. The temperature varies slightly, making it comfortable for most visitors.

The table below shows the average highs and lows each month:

Coldest Month: On the coldest nights of the year, temperatures can drop to around 42.5°F. Night temperatures usually hover around 50°F.

Warmest Month: Throughout the year, high temperatures are consistently around 66°F. The perceived temperatures may vary a little due to the overcast and partly cloudy days.

The temperature in Quito remains fairly stable, with day highs and night lows showing only minor fluctuations.

This consistency means one can expect very similar weather conditions no matter the time of year.

Rainfall and overall weather patterns do affect the temperature slightly.

The months from June to September offer less rain and more sunshine, making this period popular for tourists.

The steady range in temperature and comfortable climate make Quito a desirable destination for many year-round activities.

Average Precipitation In Quito, Ecuador

Quito, Ecuador experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with notable variations between the wet and dry seasons. While snow is uncommon, understanding monthly precipitation patterns can help visitors plan their trips.

Average Rainfall In Quito, Ecuador

Quito receives a considerable amount of rain each year. The city’s wet season is generally overcast and cooler, with the heaviest rains falling between February and April.

The table below provides an overview of average monthly rainfall:

The rainiest months are usually March and April, each averaging over 5 inches of rain.

During the dry season, from June to September, average rainfall drops but still remains over 2 inches per month, reflecting Quito’s overall wet climate.

Average Snow In Quito, Ecuador

Snowfall is extremely rare in Quito due to its proximity to the equator and relatively stable temperatures. The city has never recorded significant snow accumulation.

Given Quito’s elevation, one might expect colder temperatures and possible snowfall. However, the tropical location results in a temperate climate with minimal temperature extremes. For those interested in snow and ice phenomena, regions further south or at higher elevations offer more relevant information.

Average Sun In Quito, Ecuador

Quito has a consistent amount of sunshine throughout the year, with varying levels of cloud cover that can affect the number of sunshine hours. It experiences changes in daily shortwave solar energy, which is an important factor for understanding the local climate.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Quito, Ecuador

In Quito, the average daily shortwave solar energy varies by month.

During the sunnier months, like September, the city receives more solar energy due to clear skies and reduced cloud cover.

Conversely, the months with heavier cloud cover, such as April, see a decrease in solar energy.

Sunshine hours also fluctuate across seasons, impacted by the changes in daylight and cloud patterns.

Quito generally enjoys about 4-5 hours of sunshine per day, depending on the month and specific weather conditions.

Cloudy months typically have fewer sunshine hours, leading to shorter periods of civil twilight.

These factors are crucial for activities like solar power generation and agriculture. Understanding the average daily shortwave solar energy helps in planning and optimizing these activities to match the climatic patterns of Quito.

For a more detailed view, you can refer to Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Quito Ecuador.

Average Humidity In Quito, Ecuador

Quito experiences high humidity throughout the year. The average yearly humidity is around 78%. This can vary significantly from month to month.

Monthly Humidity Averages:

April is the most humid month with an average humidity of 84%. August has the lowest humidity at 69%.

Dew Points:

• January: 47°F
• April: 50°F
• August: 46°F
• December: 48°F

On average, the dew point ranges between 46°F to 50°F.

Relative Humidity:

Relative humidity tells us how much moisture the air contains relative to the maximum it can hold at a specific temperature.

• High Temp can reach 69°F
• Low Temp can drop to 47°F

Average Wind In Quito, Ecuador

In Quito, the wind varies significantly throughout the year. The windiest month is July, with an average hourly wind speed of 5.3 miles per hour.

During the calmest part of the year, from September 11 to June 9, the average speed drops.

Monthly Average Wind Speed:

Wind Patterns:

The city experiences different wind directions depending on the time of the year. Wind generally comes from the east during warmer months and shifts direction during cooler periods.

July Wind Details:

July’s higher winds can reach speeds much higher than the yearly average. Wind speeds often hit their peak in the afternoons. Quito’s elevation also plays a role in its wind patterns, affecting how wind behaves in the city.

Average Air Quality In Quito, Ecuador

Quito’s air quality varies throughout the year but generally falls within the acceptable range recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

During the cleanest months like April and May, particulate matter (PM2.5) levels drop to 5.5 and 5.6 µg/m³ respectively. For the rest of the year, the air quality often remains below 10 µg/m³, which is the target figure recommended by WHO.

For those concerned about visibility, it’s usually good throughout the year. Occasional fog may reduce visibility, but such instances are not frequent.

The UV Index is another important factor. With Quito being near the equator, the UV Index can be quite high. Residents and visitors are advised to use sun protection, especially during midday.

Pressure levels in Quito remain relatively stable due to its consistent climate. On average, the pressure hovers around 30 inHg. This consistent pressure contributes to the overall pleasant weather.

Regarding fog, it does occur but typically in the early morning hours or late evenings, mostly during the colder months.

Topography Of Quito, Ecuador

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, sits near the equator but at a high altitude. It has an elevation of about 9,350 feet above sea level. This unique position influences its climate and weather patterns.

Situated in the Andes Mountains, Quito is surrounded by notable volcanoes such as Pichincha, Cotopaxi, and Cayambe. These geographical features add to the city’s diverse landscape.

Quito’s geographical position at a latitude of approximately 0.2° S and a longitude of 78.5° W means it experiences a temperate climate despite its proximity to the equator. The city’s high altitude keeps temperatures moderate.

Temperature Ranges:

• Daytime: Around 66°F to 70°F
• Nighttime: Around 50°F

Rainfall varies by month, with dryer periods from June to September. Humidity levels remain high, often close to 88%.

This combination of altitude and latitude results in mild weather with little temperature fluctuation throughout the year. Quito’s unique topography creates a blend of natural beauty and moderate climate, making it a distinct and fascinating place.

Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Quito, Ecuador

Quito, Ecuador is known for its varied climate, which can lead to several extreme weather events.

Rainfall and Landslides

One of the major concerns in Quito is the risk of landslides caused by heavy rainfall. In February 2022, a significant landslide killed dozens of people in Quito after heavy rains.

Flooding

Flooding is another issue that can occur due to the city’s intense rain. Rapid and localized downpours can quickly lead to severe floods. Such a flood in January 2022 resulted in the death of multiple individuals and damaged infrastructure.

Dry Season

The dry season in Quito typically spans from June to September. During this time, the weather is more stable, with less rain and lower chances of extreme events.

Temperature Extremes

While Quito generally enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year, with highs around 69°F and lows about 47°F, it can occasionally experience unusual temperature spikes or drops. These sudden changes can create strains on local resources and affect daily life.

Monthly Data Table

Climate Change Impact

Climate change contributes to the increase in frequency and intensity of these extreme weather events. This has heightened Quito’s vulnerability to such natural disasters.

Best Time Of The Year To Visit Quito, Ecuador

Quito’s unique weather patterns make it an attractive destination year-round, but different seasons offer varied experiences. The city’s mild temperatures and distinct dry and rainy periods can influence the best months to visit.

What Is Quito, Ecuador Like In Spring

Spring in Quito spans from March to May. During this period, temperatures typically range from 49°F to 72°F. March marks a transition from the wet season, with decreasing rainfall as the months progress.

April and May experience more sunshine and milder weather, with rains tapering off towards the end of May.

Table: Temperatures and Rainfall in Spring

These months offer lush landscapes and blooming flowers, making it a picturesque time to visit. Early mornings and late afternoons are cooler, so layering is advisable.

What Is Quito, Ecuador Like In Summer

Summer in Quito, from June to August, is characterized by less rain and more sunshine. Despite being situated near the equator, Quito does not experience extreme heat. Daily temperatures range between 49°F and 72°F, with minimal rainfall.

Table: Temperatures and Rainfall in Summer

Due to the dry and pleasant conditions, this is an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city’s festivals and events also add to its charm during these months.

What Is Quito, Ecuador Like In Fall

Fall, spanning September to November, brings a gradual increase in rainfall. September starts with relatively dry conditions, which become wetter by November. Temperatures remain steady between 49°F and 72°F.

Table: Temperatures and Rainfall in Fall

What Is Quito, Ecuador Like In Winter

Winter in Quito, from December to February, is marked by moderate temperatures and a mix of rainy and dry days.

December and January tend to be wetter, while February sees a reduction in rainfall.

Table: Temperatures and Rainfall in Winter

This season offers a cooler ambiance, especially in the evenings. Despite the occasional rain, the city remains vibrant with fewer tourists, making it a pleasant time to explore local culture and indoor attractions.