Honduras is located in the tropics, but temperatures are defined both by altitude and by season.

Most of Central Honduras, at altitudes of 2000 to 6000 feet ( Tegucigalpa is at 3000 feet), is called tierra templada, or temperate land, with pleasantly warm days, and cool nights. Average highs range from 75-85 degrees, and the lows from 60-68 degrees.

Temperatures change slightly from season to season, depending on the time of year. December, January, February are the coolest months, and March and April are the hottest and most dry.

The rainy season begins in late-May or early-June, and brings a refreshing break to the heat that precedes it. The typical pattern of the rainy season is to have clear, sunny weather in the mornings, and clouds and rain in the afternoon/evenings. Occasionally, the rain may continue for several days at a time. The rainy season lasts through July, then occurs again September through October, although there are dry periods during that time.

How MEH teams can be prepared for the Honduran climate:

November through February

Even during these cool months, the heaviest clothes needed is one sweater or sweatshirt. Some throw in a long-underwear shirt for protection against any unusual cold because it is not too bulky. Another reason to bring a long-sleeve shirt is for sun or mosquito protection.

Mid-May through July, and September through October

A very light nylon jacket is appropriate for the rainy season. The rain does not usually bring cold temperatures. Bring footwear for work that can get muddy and another pair of shoes for relaxing. Prepare to be wet occasionally. Road conditions, particularly off the main highways, often deteriorate markedly during the rainy season.

Although Honduras is out of the usual Caribbean hurricane path, major storms appear every decade or so and severe flooding can occur. September through November is hurricane season.

Sun

Protect yourself from the intense, tropical sun. Yes, the sun is DIFFERENT in Honduras . It burns skin more quickly closer to the equator, especially winter-white skin from the north! Some work sites are in the sun, so bring a wide, all-around-brim hat (a baseball cap leaves your ears and neck exposed); good, powerful sun block that you reapply often; and a light-weight shirt for sun protection. Don’t count on buying a hat in Honduras. They are not available everywhere and there is not always time and personnel to make the necessary shopping trip.

Be prepared for a period of a couple of days to adjust to heat and to altitude change. Drink water often, take breaks, and give your body time to adjust. Wear 100% natural fibers (like cotton), and avoid synthetic fabrics like lyrca, polyester, and spandex.

Contact the MEH coordinators for more info.

Updated Feb. 2005