Climate Overview
The climate in São Mateus do Maranhão is cold. The average annual temperature is -40°C and approximately 243mm of precipitation falls per year. July is the wettest month, receiving around 33mm of rainfall. São Mateus do Maranhão sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year. São Mateus do Maranhão experiences heavy snowfall, typically from January through September.
Temperature
Temperatures in São Mateus do Maranhão vary considerably across the year, with a 31°C difference between the coldest and warmest months. July is the warmest month, though highs remain moderate at -23°C with a mean of -27°C. December brings the harshest conditions, with lows dropping to -54°C and an average temperature of -53°C. Daily temperature variation is modest, with an average difference of 6°C between highs and lows. The sharpest temperature change occurs between July and August, with a 9°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
São Mateus do Maranhão is a quite dry location, receiving approximately 243mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 20mm per month. The wettest month is January, averaging 33mm of rainfall. February and March also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is October, with just 0mm. That's 33mm less than January, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic. São Mateus do Maranhão receives heavy snowfall, accumulating around 244cm annually from January through September. The snowiest month is January, with approximately 33cm. Winter travel should account for significant snow cover.
Wind
São Mateus do Maranhão is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 6km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is June, averaging 9km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in January, with average winds dropping to 3km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 6km/h difference between the calmest and windiest months. This level of variation is worth factoring into travel plans.
Seasons
16 days until Spring
It is currently winter in São Mateus do Maranhão, which began on June 21, 2026. São Mateus do Maranhão sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in July at around -23°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in December near -54°C. Spring is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 (16 days from now).
Spring
Temperatures range from -52 to -35°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 3mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 6km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season. It is a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from -54 to -34°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 66mm over the season and a monthly average of 22mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 6km/h. Comfortable clothing with a light layer for cooler evenings is all you need.
Autumn
Temperatures range from -47 to -34°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 98mm over the season and a monthly average of 33mm. Expect around 98cm of snow accumulation during this period. Winds are generally light, averaging 5km/h. Layered clothing works best as temperatures gradually cool. Enjoy the crisp air and changing scenery.
Winter
Temperatures range from -40 to -23°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 76mm over the season and a monthly average of 25mm. Expect around 76cm of snow accumulation during this period. Winds are generally light, averaging 7km/h. Heavy layering and insulated outerwear are essential. Exposed skin should be minimised outdoors.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for São Mateus do Maranhão based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Snow is measured in centimetres (cm) and reflects average monthly snowfall accumulation. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.