Asunción Weather & Climate
34°C summers, mild 14°C winters, and 1,300mm of annual rainfall. Here's what the climate actually means for your daily life as an expat in Paraguay's capital.
34°C
Summer Highs
14°C
Winter Lows
1,300mm
Annual Rain
Apr–Jun
Best to Move
Monthly Breakdown
Asunción Climate Data by Month
| Month | High °C/°F | Low °C/°F | Rain mm | Humidity | Wet Days | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34 / 93 | 24 / 75 | 158 | 70% | 11.2 | 11+ | 13.5h |
| Feb | 34 / 93 | 24 / 75 | 122 | 71% | 10.1 | 11+ | 12.9h |
| Mar | 32 / 90 | 22 / 72 | 115 | 72% | 9.6 | 11 | 12.2h |
| Apr | 29 / 84 | 19 / 66 | 157 | 75% | 10.3 | 8 | 11.5h |
| May | 24 / 75 | 16 / 61 | 110 | 78% | 8.6 | 6 | 10.9h |
| Jun | 22 / 72 | 14 / 57 | 72 | 77% | 7.1 | 4 | 10.6h |
| Jul | 23 / 73 | 14 / 57 | 42 | 70% | 5.4 | 5 | 10.7h |
| Aug | 26 / 79 | 15 / 59 | 77 | 63% | 5.3 | 6 | 11.3h |
| Sep | 29 / 84 | 18 / 64 | 79 | 62% | 7.3 | 9 | 12.0h |
| Oct | 30 / 86 | 19 / 66 | 116 | 68% | 10.4 | 11 | 12.7h |
| Nov | 31 / 88 | 21 / 70 | 153 | 67% | 11.3 | 11+ | 13.4h |
| Dec | 33 / 91 | 23 / 73 | 132 | 69% | 11.1 | 11+ | 13.7h |
Based on historical averages. Actual conditions vary year to year. UV 11+ = extreme — sunscreen and shade essential.
Seasonal Guide
The Four Seasons in Asunción
Summer (Dec–Feb)
Extreme Heat Season
- → Average highs of 34°C, "feels like" can exceed 45°C
- → AC is non-negotiable — electricity costs 3–4x winter rates
- → Violent convective thunderstorms and raudales (flash floods)
- → Tereré (cold yerba mate) becomes your hydration essential
- → Outdoor activity limited to early morning (6–8 AM) or after 7 PM
- → UV index 11+ — extreme sun exposure risk
Autumn (Mar–May)
Optimal Relocation Window
- → The sweet spot: moderate temps (24–32°C) and clearing skies
- → April is the ideal month to arrive and settle in
- → Most productive season for remote workers and nomads
- → Outdoor cafés become viable — enjoy the terraces
- → Government offices and services fully operational
- → Electricity costs drop significantly from summer peak
Winter (Jun–Aug)
Short & Unpredictable
- → Lows can hit 5°C during cold snaps — surprisingly cold
- → No central heating in homes: high ceilings + tile floors = chilly
- → Use split AC heat pump mode or portable space heaters
- → Driest period — July averages only 42mm of rain
- → Best time for outdoor exercise and exploring the city
- → "Veranillo de San Juan" (around June 24): 3–5 warm days mid-winter
Spring (Sep–Nov)
Beautiful but Volatile
- → Lapacho trees bloom in stunning pink and yellow
- → Heat returns rapidly — 29°C by September, 31°C by November
- → Most severe thunderstorm activity of the year
- → High winds and hail are legitimate risks
- → Critical time for power protection (surge protectors, UPS)
- → September is a good alternative arrival month
Veranillo de San Juan
Around June 24 each year, Asunción experiences the "Veranillo de San Juan" — a brief 3–5 day spell of warm, summer-like weather in the middle of winter. It's a beloved local phenomenon, coinciding with the Festival de San Juan featuring traditional games, bonfires, and street food. Don't put away your summer clothes entirely during winter.
Safety Information
Extreme Weather Risks
Heat Waves
11 heat wave events recorded in 2024 alone. Urban temperatures can reach 42–44°C. ANDE (the national electricity provider) faces severe strain during heat waves as AC demand surges, sometimes causing localized power outages.
→ Keep a UPS for your router and laptop
Raudales (Flash Floods)
Only 19% storm drainage coverage in Asunción. Flash floods form on streets in 5–10 minutes during heavy rain. Water typically recedes 30–60 minutes after rain stops. Raudales hide potholes and can strand vehicles.
→ Never drive through flooded streets
River Flooding
Paraguay River flooding displaces thousands in the low-lying Bañados neighborhoods. Villa Morra and Santa Teresa sit on higher ground and remain safe. River flooding can close the Costanera road.
→ Choose apartments in elevated neighborhoods
Hail & Severe Storms
Hail is a legitimate risk for car damage, especially during spring storms (Sep–Nov). Microbursts are more common than tornadoes. Spring storms can bring high winds and significant property damage.
→ Always choose covered parking for your vehicle
Danger Zones
Flood-Prone Intersections to Avoid
These intersections are known to flood within minutes during heavy rain. Avoid driving through them during storms, and wait at least 30–60 minutes after rain stops before crossing.
General Santos / San Antonio
Frequent deep flooding during storms
Av. Perú / Artigas
Low-lying area, rapid water accumulation
Rep. Argentina / Caaguazú
Poor drainage infrastructure
Eusebio Ayala / Boggiani
Notorious flood pocket, avoid entirely
SUV recommended: If you plan to drive in Asunción, an SUV or higher-clearance vehicle handles raudales and pothole-damaged roads much better than a sedan. Many expats opt for ride-hailing (Bolt, Uber) to avoid driving in storms altogether.
Daily Life Impact
How Climate Affects Your Daily Life
Air Conditioning
Split units are standard in all apartments. Essential from October through March.
Heating Solutions
No central heating exists in Paraguayan homes. High ceilings and tile floors amplify the cold.
- → AC heat pump mode (most common)
- → Portable electric space heaters
- → Thermal base layers from home
- → Hot water bottles for sleeping
Clothing Strategy
Light cotton and linen for summer. Medium jacket and sweaters for winter cold snaps.
- → Buy summer clothes locally (affordable)
- → Bring winter layers from home
- → Quality winter gear is expensive locally
- → Good walking shoes are essential year-round
Outdoor Exercise Window
Best months for outdoor exercise: April through September. During summer (Dec–Feb), limit outdoor activity to 6–8 AM or after 7 PM. The best parks for running and cycling are Parque de la Salud and the Costanera (when not flooded).
Health & Safety
Mosquitoes & Dengue Prevention
The Risk
Dengue is endemic in Asunción. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is active year-round but peaks during the warm rainy season (October–April). Unlike malaria mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti bites primarily during the day, especially at dawn and dusk.
Warning Signs — Seek Immediate Medical Care:
- → High fever (40°C/104°F) with severe joint/muscle pain
- → Pain behind the eyes, rash, nausea
- → Bleeding gums or nose, bruising easily
- → Asunción hospitals are experienced in treating dengue
Prevention Checklist
- ✓Use DEET-based repellent, especially at dawn and dusk
- ✓Install window screens on all windows (ask landlord)
- ✓Eliminate standing water: flower pots, buckets, tires
- ✓Wear light-colored long sleeves during peak mosquito hours
- ✓Use plug-in mosquito repellent devices indoors at night
- ✓Off! brand repellent widely available at pharmacies
Allergies & Air Quality
Dust levels are extreme in August–September. Lapacho tree pollen adds to allergy risk during spring blooming season. If you're allergy-prone, consider bringing a HEPA air purifier from home.
Relocation Timing
Best Time to Move to Asunción
Optimal: April–June
Recommended
- → Temperate weather (22–29°C)
- → Offices and services fully operational
- → No holiday closures or shutdowns
- → Lower electricity costs during settling in
- → Comfortable for apartment hunting on foot
Alternative: September
Good Option
- → Beautiful lapacho blooming season
- → Active social and business life
- → Warmth returning but not extreme
- → Good for networking and meeting people
- → Watch for spring thunderstorms
Avoid: Dec–January
Not Recommended
- → Extreme heat (34°C+, feels like 40°C+)
- → Holiday closures: lawyers, agents, officials on leave
- → Banks and government offices short hours
- → Raudales and frequent power outages
- → Apartment hunting in 40°C heat is brutal
Paraguay School Calendar (for families)
Arriving in April means children can join mid-term. Some bilingual schools accept rolling enrollment.
How It Compares
Climate Comparison: Expat Destinations
| Feature | Asunción | Buenos Aires | Medellín | Bangkok |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Climate Type | Tropical Savannah | Humid Subtropical | Tropical Highland | Tropical Monsoon |
| Summer | Extreme (34°C+) | High (30°C) | "Perfect" (27°C) | Oppressive (35°C+) |
| Winter | Short, Erratic | Moderate, Rainy | None | None |
| Primary Risk | Raudales | Humidity | Rain | Smog |
| AC Required | 5+ months | 2-3 months | Never | Year-round |
Is Climate a Dealbreaker?
4–5 months are dominated by the need for air conditioning. The remaining 7 months are pleasant subtropical weather. Asunción's climate is not a dealbreaker with good AC — most expats adapt within their first season. The low cost of living more than compensates for the summer electricity bills.
Packing Guide
What to Pack for Asunción
Bring From Home
These items are expensive or hard to find locally
- →Surge protectors & UPS — power fluctuations are common
- →SPF 50+ sunscreen — facial sunscreen costs $25–48 locally (₲180,000–350,000)
- →Prescription medications — bring 3–6 months supply
- →Thermal base layers — quality winter layers are overpriced locally
- →Quality walking shoes — good brands have limited selection
Buy Locally
Affordable and readily available in Asunción
- →Summer clothing — Mercado 4 or shopping malls, very affordable
- →Tereré kit — guampa, bombilla, and thermos for cold mate
- →Appliances — Paraguay uses 220V; buy locally for correct voltage
- →Insect repellent — Off! brand widely available at pharmacies
- →Body sunscreen — ₲100,000–150,000 ($14–21), reasonable price
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like in Asunción Paraguay?+
Asunción has a tropical savannah climate. Hot humid summers (34°C/93°F, Dec-Feb), mild short winters (14-23°C, Jun-Aug). Annual rainfall around 1,300mm. Humidity regularly exceeds 70% in summer, making the "feels like" temperature much higher than the actual reading.
When is the best time to move to Asunción?+
April to June is the optimal window. Temperatures are moderate (22-29°C), offices and government services are fully operational, and there are no holiday closures. September is also good (spring blooms, active social life). Avoid December-January due to extreme heat and holiday shutdowns.
How hot does Asunción get in summer?+
Average highs reach 34°C (93°F) but the heat index ("feels like") regularly exceeds 40°C during heat waves, sometimes hitting 45°C. The UV index reaches 11+ (extreme). Air conditioning is non-negotiable — expect summer electricity bills of $60+ per month for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Does Asunción flood?+
Yes. "Raudales" (flash floods) form on streets in 5-10 minutes during heavy rain due to only 19% storm drainage coverage. Known danger spots include General Santos/San Antonio, Av. Perú/Artigas, Rep. Argentina/Caaguazú, and Eusebio Ayala/Boggiani. Avoid driving during storms and wait 30-60 minutes after rain stops for water to recede.
Do I need heating in Asunción?+
Yes, briefly. Winter cold snaps can drop to 5°C and homes lack insulation and central heating. High ceilings and tile floors make interiors feel colder than outside. Use your AC in heat pump mode or portable heaters. Bring thermal base layers from home — quality winter gear is expensive locally.
Is dengue a risk in Asunción?+
Yes, dengue is endemic in Asunción. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is active year-round. Use DEET repellent especially at dawn and dusk, install window screens, and eliminate standing water around your home. Seek medical care immediately for high fever combined with joint pain.
What should I pack for moving to Asunción?+
Bring surge protectors and a UPS (power fluctuations are common), SPF 50+ sunscreen (facial sunscreen costs $25-48 locally), thermal base layers for winter, prescription medications (3-6 months supply), and quality walking shoes. Buy summer clothing, a tereré kit, and appliances (220V) locally.
How does Asunción's climate compare to other expat cities?+
Hotter than Buenos Aires in summer but milder winters. Much more extreme than Medellín, which enjoys perpetual spring at 27°C. Similar heat to Bangkok but significantly better air quality. Asunción's climate is manageable with good AC — most expats adapt within the first season.
What is the rainy season in Asunción?+
The wet season runs October to May, peaking November through April. Thunderstorms are intense but brief, typically lasting 30-60 minutes. Monthly rainfall ranges from 110mm to 158mm during this period. Check weather alerts daily and avoid known flood-prone intersections during storms.
Continue Reading
Related Asunción Guides
First 30 Days in Asunción
Week-by-week settlement checklist for new arrivals
Housing & Neighborhoods
Best areas, rental prices, and apartment hunting tips
Cost of Living
Monthly budget breakdown including electricity costs
Healthcare
Hospitals, insurance, and dengue treatment options
Digital Infrastructure
Internet speeds, power reliability, and UPS recommendations