Calama Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Calama, Antofagasta Region, Chile. These averages rely on historical data collected over 30 years, from 1990 to 2020. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.

Calama experiences desert-like conditions in terms of precipitation with almost no rain/snowfall, generally receiving 58 mm (2.3 in) annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

Calama can be quite wet during February, receiving approximately 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 11 rainy days.

In contrast October, experiences much drier conditions, with 0.2 mm (0.01 in) of rainfall, spread across 2 rainy days.

February, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 23°C (73°F). During the driest month October you can expect a temperature of 24°C (75°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Calama Temperature page.

Calama's average annual precipitation is 58 mm (2.3 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Lisbon, Portugal, the average annual precipitation is 774 mm (30 in), characterized by wet winters and dry summers typical of the Mediterranean climate.

In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.

In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm (39 in), making it wetter than Sydney.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, receives 1955 mm (77 in) of annual rainfall, with a pronounced wet season from May to November, typical of its tropical monsoon climate.

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

• Mawsynram in India is noted as being the wettest place on earth, with over 11 meters (36 feet) of rain falling every year.
• In contrast, Antofagasta in Chile is among the driest places on the planet, getting less than 0.1mm (0.004 inches) per year, with some years recording virtually no rainfall.
• Nearly 1,650 thunderstorm cells are estimated over the planet at any given time.

For more detailed information about Calama's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Calama Climate page.