Departamento de Zapala Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Zapala, Argentina

If you're considering a visit to Zapala, Argentina, or planning to move to this region, it's crucial to understand the climate and weather conditions that you can expect throughout the year. Zapala is located in the province of Neuquén, in the northern Patagonia region of Argentina. The climate in Zapala is classified as a cold desert climate, also known as a cold semi-arid climate, which is typical of the Patagonian steppe.

Temperature

The temperature in Zapala exhibits significant variations throughout the year. Summers, which last from December to February, are generally warm with average high temperatures ranging from 21°C to 25°C (70°F to 77°F). However, temperatures can occasionally exceed 30°C (86°F) during heatwaves. In contrast, winters, lasting from June to August, are cold with average high temperatures ranging from 6°C to 8°C (43°F to 46°F). It's worth noting that winter nights can be particularly cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The highest temperature ever recorded in Zapala was 39.8°C (103.6°F), while the lowest temperature recorded was -22.0°C (-7.6°F).

Precipitation

Zapala experiences low levels of precipitation, typical of a cold desert climate. The annual average precipitation is around 240 mm (9.4 inches). Most of the precipitation occurs during the summer months, with January being the wettest month. In contrast, the winter months are relatively dry. Snowfall is not uncommon during the winter months, contributing to the region's picturesque winter scenery.

Wind

Zapala is known for its relatively windy conditions, with the prevailing winds coming from the west. The average wind speed ranges from 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph) throughout the year. However, gusts can reach higher speeds, particularly during weather disturbances.

Sunshine

Zapala enjoys a high number of sunshine hours throughout the year, averaging around 2,500 hours of sunshine annually. This abundance of sunshine contributes to the overall arid nature of the climate, and visitors can expect clear, sunny days for a significant portion of the year.

Extreme Weather Events

Despite its generally stable climate, Zapala is not immune to extreme weather events. Thunderstorms can occur during the summer months, sometimes leading to heavy rainfall and localized flooding. Additionally, occasional blizzards and strong winds in the winter months can result in temporary travel disruptions.

Climate Charts

For a visual representation of the climate in Zapala, the following charts illustrate the average monthly temperature and precipitation levels throughout the year:

Average Monthly Temperature in Zapala

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High (°C)	24	23	21	16	11	8	8	10	12	17	20	23
Average Low (°C)	9	8	7	4	2	0	0	1	4	6	8	11

Average Monthly Precipitation in Zapala (mm)

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Precipitation (mm)	30	25	20	15	15	20	20	20	20	25	25	30

Conclusion

In conclusion, the climate in Zapala, Argentina, is characterized by its cold desert climate, with distinct seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. Visitors to the region can expect warm summers, cold winters, low precipitation levels, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Understanding these weather patterns is essential for making informed decisions when planning activities or settling in this unique and picturesque region of Patagonia.