Caria Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Caria, Portugal

Caria is a beautiful village located in the municipality of Belmonte, in the district of Castelo Branco, Portugal. The village is nestled in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, which contributes to its unique climate and weather patterns. In this article, we will explore the climate and weather conditions in Caria throughout the year.

Geographic Location

Caria is situated in the central part of Portugal, approximately 20 kilometers northwest of the city of Covilhã. It is located at an elevation of around 725 meters (2,379 feet) above sea level, which has a significant impact on its climate.

Temperature

Caria experiences a temperate maritime climate, influenced by its altitude and proximity to the Serra da Estrela mountain range. The average annual temperature in Caria is around 13°C (55°F). During the summer months, from June to August, Caria enjoys pleasant temperatures with average highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F). However, temperatures can occasionally reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, especially during heatwaves. In the winter months, from December to February, Caria experiences cooler temperatures with average highs of 11°C (52°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). Frost and snowfall are not uncommon during this time, particularly at higher altitudes in the surrounding mountainous areas.

Precipitation

Caria receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an annual average of approximately 900 millimeters (35 inches). The wettest months are typically November and December, while the driest months are July and August. The Serra da Estrela mountain range plays a vital role in the precipitation patterns of Caria. The mountains act as a barrier to the prevailing winds, causing orographic uplift and resulting in increased rainfall on the windward side (west) of the range, where Caria is located.

Wind

Caria experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year, with higher gusts occasionally occurring during storms or frontal systems. The prevailing winds in the region are from the northwest, but they can vary in direction depending on the weather systems affecting the area. The Serra da Estrela mountain range also influences the wind patterns in Caria. The mountains can create localized wind patterns, known as mountain and valley breezes, as air flows up the slopes during the day and down the valleys at night.

Sunshine

Caria benefits from a relatively high amount of sunshine throughout the year. On average, Caria receives around 2,700 hours of sunshine annually, which is above the national average for Portugal. The long summer days provide ample daylight for outdoor activities, with the longest day of the year occurring around the summer solstice in June. In contrast, the winter days are shorter, with the shortest day of the year occurring around the winter solstice in December.

Conclusion

Caria, Portugal, enjoys a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasonal variations. The village experiences pleasant summers with warm temperatures and moderate rainfall, while winters are cooler with occasional frost and snowfall. The surrounding Serra da Estrela mountain range influences the climate by affecting temperatures, precipitation, wind patterns, and providing ample sunshine. Whether you visit Caria in the summer or winter, you can expect a unique and enjoyable experience in this beautiful Portuguese village.