Iquique Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Iquique, Tarapacá, Chile. This average is based on long-term data collected between 1990 and 2020. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.

Iquique is known for its low rainfall, with yearly precipitation amounts around 149 mm.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

The climate in Iquique shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 25 mm of precipitation during the wettest month June, distributed over 0 rainy days.

In contrast, March offers drier and sunnier days, with around 2.5 mm of rainfall over 3 rainy days.

June, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 20°C. The city receives 168 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month March you can expect a temperature of 24°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Iquique Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in Chile

The map below shows the annual precipitation across Chile. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Iquique’s average annual precipitation is 149 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages [964 mm], with snowy winters and rainy summers.

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

Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.

How is Precipitation Measured?

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.

Global Warming and Precipitation

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Iquique:

• Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
• Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.

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