Cartago Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Cartago, Cartago, Costa Rica. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.
Cartago has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 3240 mm (128 in) of rainfall annually. Despite the high annual total, it does experience a distinct rainy season during certain months. Examine our detailed charts below to understand these seasonal patterns.
Monthly Rainfall & Rainy Days
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. During the wettest month, October receives substantial rainfall, averaging 480 mm (19 in) of precipitation, recorded across 24 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, March brings less rainfall, with 72 mm (2.8 in) over 9 rainy days.
October, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 23°C (73°F). The city receives 162 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month March you can expect a temperature of 24°C (75°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Cartago Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in Costa Rica: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across Costa Rica. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
Cartago vs World: Rainfall Compared
Cartago's average annual precipitation is 3240 mm (128 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages 964 mm (38 in), with snowy winters and rainy summers.
In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.
In Tokyo, Japan, the average annual precipitation is 1528 mm (60 in), with significant summer rains due to typhoon season.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm (100 in) of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.
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.
The proximity of a location to a large body of water can significantly affect its rainfall patterns:
- Ocean Influence: Coastal regions typically receive more rainfall due to the presence of moisture-laden winds from the ocean. These regions tend to have more humid climates and experience more frequent precipitation, especially in winter.
- Continental Climates: Areas further from the sea, such as inland or continental regions, experience less frequent rainfall and more extreme seasonal variations in precipitation.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Cartago's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Cartago Climate page.
Cartago Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cartago - and find the best time to visit.
Cartago 3-Day Forecast
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Cartago climate overview or explore weather in Costa Rica.
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