January kicks off the year with typical tropical weather in
Santa Cruz de la Sierra.
Bolivia's climate during this period is characterized by impressive high humidity of 79% and significant rainfall of 203mm (7.99"). This makes January the wettest month of the year, so don't leave the house without an umbrella. Additionally, the UV index is at its highest, indicating a need for adequate sun protection. Reaching the peak summer, expect long days, with a plethora of sunshine hours promoting outdoor activities.
Temperature
Entering January, the average high-temperature is recorded at a still tropical 30.2°C (86.4°F), exhibiting a minimal shift from
December's 31.4°C (88.5°F). Santa Cruz de la Sierra observes an average low-temperature of 21.3°C (70.3°F) during January.
Heat index
The average heat index in January is estimated at a very hot 38°C (100.4°F). Undertake extra safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are expected. Heatstroke may result from lengthy activity.
Heat index details are generally centered around shaded locations and a mild breeze. Heat index values may surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the presence of direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is found by incorporating humidity levels into the air temperature measurement. This effect tends to be personal, with the weather perception differing among individuals due to variations in body mass, height, and exertion. When directly under the sun, the weather's impact can intensify, possibly boosting the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly important for children. Children regularly disregard the necessity to rest and replenish fluids. Thirst is a late symptom of dehydration - thus, maintaining hydration, particularly during long-lasting physical activities, is essential.
The body's natural response to excessive warmth is perspiration, as it allows for cooling through sweat evaporation. An increase in relative humidity disrupts body cooling by slowing the evaporation rate, thereby reducing the rate at which the body cools and amplifying the sense of heat. Exceeding the body's heat disposal threshold results in a rise in body temperature and potential thermal disorders.
Humidity
January through
March and
May, with an average relative humidity of 79%, are the most humid months.
Rainfall
January is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 14 days and accumulates 203mm (7.99") of precipitation.
Daylight
In Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, the average length of the day in January is 13h and 3min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 05:40 and sunset at 18:51. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:59 and sunset at 18:52 -04.
Sunshine
The months with the least sunshine in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, are January through March, May through
July and December, with an average of 7h of sunshine.
UV index
January through March,
October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme health hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: The maximum daily UV index, 12 in January, converts into the following recommendations:
Undertake all key precautions, as unprotected skin and eyes may get burns in no time. Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, and remember that not all shade structures provide complete protection. On days when the sun blazes, arm yourself with sunglasses that block UVA and UVB radiation. Use liberally and reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every two hours and right after outdoor activities or a swim.