Lima experienced a light yet persistent drizzle this morning, creating a unique start to the day. According to the National Service of Meteorology and Hydrology (Senamhi), the forecast for Tuesday, October 14, indicates a cloudy morning, transitioning to partly cloudy conditions with gusty winds this afternoon.
Temperature readings are expected to be relatively mild, with a forecasted maximum of 22℃ and a minimum of 13℃ in the eastern sectors of the city. Meanwhile, in western Lima and the Callao area, temperatures are projected to peak at 19℃ with a minimum of 16℃.
In its online report, Senamhi highlighted the importance of precautionary measures due to occasional gusts of wind along the coastal areas of the Peruvian capital, particularly as atmospheric variations are typical during this season. The probability of rain is low at 1%, with cloudiness expected to reach about 62%, and wind gusts could hit speeds of up to 28 kilometers per hour.
As evening approaches, temperatures will drop to around 15 degrees Celsius, with cloud cover predicted to be at 78% and wind gusts increasing to 30 kilometers per hour, while precipitation remains at a 1% likelihood.
Notably, Lima’s diverse climate comprises 12 different types directly influenced by its proximity to the sea and varying altitudes towards the east. The predominant climate across nearly half of the province is classified as arid, characterized by low humidity levels year-round. This arid state is intriguing given Lima’s geographical position in a tropical zone and close to sea level, shaped by the influence of the Andes Mountains and the cold Peru Current from the south.
Spanning from the province of Cañete in the south to Barranca in the north, Lima presents a desert-like environment where rainfall is scarce, typically occurring between July and September. However, in this arid climate, unique ecosystems known as “lomas” emerge in Cañete, Lima, Huaral, and Huaura, benefiting from winter mists and drizzles, thus supporting more humid microenvironments amid the overall dryness.
As one moves further inland and to greater elevations, the climate transitions from arid to semi-arid, eventually yielding cooler temperatures with somewhat more consistent rainfall in summer months.
Peru boasts an impressive array of climates, totaling 38 different types according to Senamhi, shaped by its geographic placement near the Tropic of Capricorn and the Andes proximity. The coastal region, which constitutes just 11.6% of Peru’s territory, primarily showcases arid and temperate conditions marked by limited rainfall. In contrast, the highland areas near the Andes reflect rainy and cold climates, whereas the rainforest region, spanning over 60% of the country, exhibits a warm and heavily rainy tropical climate.
This weather diversity not only highlights the variations within Peru but also illustrates the rich ecological tapestry supported by the unique climatic conditions across the nation.