weather in cusco peru in january

9+ Cusco, Peru Weather in January: A Guide

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9+ Cusco, Peru Weather in January: A Guide

Cusco, Peru, nestled excessive within the Andes Mountains, experiences distinct moist and dry seasons. January falls squarely throughout the moist season, characterised by important rainfall and excessive humidity. Daytime temperatures are usually delicate, averaging within the mid-60s Fahrenheit (round 18 levels Celsius), whereas nighttime temperatures can drop to the low 40s Fahrenheit (round 4 levels Celsius). The town’s elevation contributes to the comparatively cool temperatures year-round, even in the course of the wet season.

Understanding the prevailing weather conditions throughout this era is essential for vacationers planning to go to Cusco and its surrounding areas, together with Machu Picchu. The heavy rainfall can influence accessibility to sure websites, probably inflicting path closures or transportation delays. Being ready for moist situations with acceptable gear is crucial for a cushty and protected expertise. Traditionally, January’s rainfall has performed a significant position within the area’s agriculture, nourishing the land for crops essential to native communities.

This overview lays the groundwork for a extra detailed exploration of particular facets of Cusco’s local weather in January. Matters reminiscent of packing suggestions, potential journey disruptions, and the influence on outside actions will probably be examined additional.

1. Wet Season

January in Cusco falls throughout the wet season, a defining attribute of the area’s local weather. This era, usually extending from November to April, experiences considerably larger precipitation ranges in comparison with the dry season. The Andes Mountains play a vital position on this sample. As heat, moist air from the Amazon basin rises and encounters the cooler mountain air, it condenses, resulting in frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. This precipitation is significant for the area’s ecosystems, replenishing water sources and supporting agricultural actions. Nonetheless, the depth of the rain may pose challenges, significantly for transportation and accessibility to sure areas.

The results of the wet season are multifaceted. Whereas helpful for agriculture, the elevated rainfall can result in landslides, significantly in mountainous terrain. Roads could turn into impassable, and trekking routes might be hazardous. For example, the Inca Path to Machu Picchu is typically briefly closed during times of significantly heavy rainfall to make sure customer security. Understanding the prevalence of rain throughout January permits for extra knowledgeable planning, together with packing acceptable gear, scheduling versatile itineraries, and contemplating various actions in case of disruptions.

In abstract, the wet season is an integral element of Cusco’s local weather in January. Recognizing its affect is essential for vacationers and residents alike. Preparation for moist situations, consciousness of potential journey disruptions, and an understanding of the broader ecological influence present a complete perspective on navigating this era. This information contributes to safer journey experiences and a deeper appreciation of the area’s dynamic atmosphere.

2. Excessive Humidity

Excessive humidity is a defining attribute of Cusco’s climate in January, instantly linked to the prevalent rainfall. The abundance of moisture within the air contributes to a singular local weather expertise distinct from the dry season. Understanding its influence is essential for customer consolation and preparedness.

  • Decreased Visibility

    Excessive humidity typically results in lowered visibility as a result of formation of mist and fog, significantly within the mornings and evenings. This may influence journey plans, particularly for these counting on scenic views or engaged in outside actions like trekking. The lowered visibility may additionally have an effect on transportation, probably inflicting delays.

  • Perceived Temperature

    Excessive humidity influences perceived temperature. The mixture of moisture and cooler temperatures could make the air really feel colder than the precise temperature studying. This phenomenon, sometimes called the “looks like” temperature, necessitates acceptable layering and consideration of wind chill elements.

  • Mould and Mildew Progress

    The elevated moisture within the air promotes the expansion of mould and mildew. This is usually a concern for lodging and saved belongings. Vacationers ought to be ready with methods to mitigate potential mould and mildew points, reminiscent of utilizing moisture-absorbing merchandise or making certain enough air flow in rooms.

  • Influence on Bodily Exertion

    Excessive humidity could make bodily exertion more difficult. The physique’s means to chill itself by perspiration is hindered when the air is already saturated with moisture. This may result in elevated fatigue and discomfort, significantly throughout strenuous actions like mountain climbing at excessive altitudes.

These elements, instantly influenced by excessive humidity, considerably form the general expertise of Cusco’s climate in January. Understanding and making ready for these situations, from packing acceptable clothes to adjusting exercise ranges, ensures a safer and extra comfy go to.

3. Delicate Daytime Temperatures

Delicate daytime temperatures characterize January in Cusco, providing a respite from the extra excessive situations discovered at different occasions of the 12 months. Whereas located at a excessive altitude, Cusco experiences common daytime temperatures within the mid-60s Fahrenheit (round 18 levels Celsius) throughout January. This mildness is a direct results of the area’s location throughout the tropics. Regardless of the wet season, the solar’s depth at this latitude prevents temperatures from plummeting as they could in higher-latitude places throughout winter months. This supplies a cushty atmosphere for exploring the town and surrounding areas, even in the course of the moist season.

The delicate daytime temperatures supply a number of sensible benefits. Out of doors actions, whereas probably impacted by rainfall, stay possible. Exploring historic websites, wandering by native markets, or partaking in shorter treks turn into extra manageable with out excessive warmth or chilly. Moreover, the average temperatures permit for comfy layering. Whereas rain gear is crucial, the mildness permits for lighter clothes beneath, offering flexibility for fluctuating climate patterns all through the day. For instance, one may comfortably put on a lightweight fleece or sweater underneath a water-proof jacket. The flexibility to regulate layers contributes considerably to consolation throughout explorations.

In abstract, the delicate daytime temperatures throughout January in Cusco symbolize a key component of the area’s local weather. The stability between the wet season and the tropical latitude creates a singular climate profile. This understanding permits vacationers to arrange adequately, profiting from the comparatively comfy daytime situations whereas additionally acknowledging the potential for rain and the necessity for versatile planning. This nuanced method permits for a extra rewarding and comfy expertise navigating the complexities of Cusco’s climate in January.

4. Cooler Nights

Cusco’s excessive altitude considerably influences its nighttime temperatures, significantly throughout January. Whereas days stay comparatively delicate, nights turn into significantly cooler, a vital issue for guests to know and put together for. This drop in temperature is a attribute characteristic of high-altitude climates, the place the thinner environment retains much less warmth.

  • Temperature Variations

    Nighttime temperatures in Cusco throughout January can drop to the low 40s Fahrenheit (round 4 levels Celsius). This important distinction between daytime and nighttime temperatures necessitates cautious packing and preparation. Layering clothes turns into important for sustaining consolation all through the day and into the cooler evenings.

  • Influence on Sleep High quality

    The cooler nighttime temperatures can influence sleep high quality, particularly for these unaccustomed to such situations. Satisfactory bedding and probably supplemental heating inside lodging turn into necessary issues. Consciousness of those temperature variations permits for proactive measures, reminiscent of requesting further blankets or using obtainable heating choices.

  • Affect on Out of doors Actions

    Cooler nights considerably affect choices concerning night outside actions. Applicable apparel, together with heat layers and probably hats and gloves, turns into important. The cooler temperatures additionally enhance the chance of hypothermia if correct precautions should not taken. Planning night actions with temperature issues in thoughts is significant for a protected and comfy expertise.

  • Impact on Native Infrastructure

    The cooler nighttime temperatures, whereas not usually excessive sufficient to trigger freezing pipes in Cusco itself, can nonetheless influence infrastructure in surrounding higher-altitude areas. This may sometimes have an effect on water availability or different providers reliant on infrastructure weak to temperature fluctuations. Whereas much less widespread in Cusco correct, this stays a consideration for these venturing into extra distant, higher-altitude areas.

In abstract, the cooler nighttime temperatures in Cusco throughout January symbolize a essential facet of the area’s local weather. Understanding these temperature variations and their potential influence on consolation, exercise selections, and logistical issues permits for extra knowledgeable planning. This preparation ensures a safer, extra fulfilling, and in the end extra fulfilling expertise navigating the various weather conditions of Cusco in the course of the wet season.

5. Common 18C (64F) days

Cusco’s common daytime temperature of 18C (64F) in January represents a average local weather regardless of its high-altitude location and the presence of the wet season. This seemingly easy common temperature performs a big position in shaping numerous facets of the January expertise in Cusco, influencing every part from packing selections to exercise planning. Understanding its implications supplies invaluable context for navigating the area’s local weather throughout this era.

  • Snug Exploration

    The average daytime temperature facilitates comfy exploration of Cusco’s historic websites and surrounding areas. Whereas rain stays an element, the absence of maximum warmth or chilly permits for prolonged intervals outside. This temperature vary permits comfy strolling excursions, visits to Machu Picchu, and exploration of the Sacred Valley with out extreme warmth stress or the necessity for cumbersome cold-weather gear.

  • Layering Flexibility

    18C (64F) supplies flexibility in clothes selections. Layering turns into a sensible technique. A lightweight fleece or sweater paired with a water-proof outer layer accommodates potential temperature fluctuations and rainfall. This adaptability is especially advantageous given the dynamic climate patterns attribute of Cusco in January.

  • Influence on Perceived Temperature

    Whereas the typical temperature stays average, elements like humidity, wind, and cloud cowl affect perceived temperature. Excessive humidity could make 18C really feel cooler, whereas direct daylight could make it really feel hotter. Contemplating these elements, together with particular person temperature sensitivities, informs clothes selections and exercise planning.

  • Distinction with Nighttime Temperatures

    The average daytime temperature of 18C (64F) contrasts sharply with considerably cooler nighttime temperatures, which may drop to the low 40s Fahrenheit (round 4C). This diurnal temperature variation underscores the significance of packing for each delicate days and chilly nights. The flexibility to adapt to this temperature swing is crucial for sustaining consolation all through a 24-hour interval in Cusco throughout January.

In conclusion, understanding Cusco’s common daytime temperature of 18C (64F) in January supplies essential context for navigating the area’s local weather in the course of the wet season. This average temperature, whereas seemingly easy, influences numerous sides of the customer expertise, from clothes selections and exercise planning to the general notion of consolation. Recognizing this affect, together with the interaction of different climatic elements like humidity and nighttime temperature drops, contributes to a extra knowledgeable and in the end extra fulfilling expertise in Cusco throughout this distinctive interval.

6. Common 4C (39F) nights

Common nighttime temperatures of 4C (39F) in Cusco throughout January symbolize a big attribute of the area’s local weather, instantly influenced by its excessive altitude. This drop in temperature, contrasting sharply with milder daytime situations, necessitates particular preparations and issues for guests. Understanding its implications is essential for a cushty and protected expertise.

  • Lodging Wants

    Satisfactory heating in lodging turns into important throughout January nights. Whereas some resorts supply central heating, others could present area heaters or further blankets. Confirming heating preparations prematurely is very really helpful. Packing heat sleepwear and probably a thermal liner for sleeping baggage provides an additional layer of consolation in cooler situations. The flexibility to keep up a cushty sleeping temperature contributes considerably to total well-being and delight throughout a go to.

  • Night Apparel

    Heat clothes turns into important for night actions. Layers, together with thermal underwear, fleece jackets, hats, gloves, and scarves, are essential for sustaining consolation. The drop in temperature after sundown necessitates a transition from lighter daytime apparel to considerably hotter night put on. Correct preparation for cooler nights ensures comfy participation in night cultural occasions, eating experiences, or just strolling by the town after darkish.

  • Altitude Concerns

    The mixture of excessive altitude and chilly temperatures can exacerbate altitude illness signs. The physique’s means to acclimatize to excessive altitude could also be additional challenged by the added stress of chilly. Staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous exercise upon arrival, and consulting a doctor concerning altitude illness remedy are important precautions. Recognizing the mixed influence of altitude and chilly temperatures permits for proactive measures to mitigate potential well being dangers.

  • Influence on Out of doors Actions

    Cooler nighttime temperatures considerably affect outside actions. Stargazing, whereas probably interesting as a result of clear skies, requires substantial heat clothes. Night excursions or hikes necessitate cautious consideration of temperature and potential wind chill. Packing headlamps or flashlights turns into important, as darkness descends earlier throughout these months. Planning night actions with a transparent understanding of temperature situations ensures each security and delight.

In abstract, the typical nighttime temperature of 4C (39F) in Cusco throughout January is a defining facet of the area’s local weather. This attribute influences lodging selections, night apparel, altitude acclimatization methods, and the feasibility of out of doors actions. Recognizing and making ready for these cooler nighttime situations, together with understanding the broader context of Cusco’s January climate patterns, ensures a extra comfy, protected, and in the end extra rewarding journey expertise.

7. Potential Journey Disruptions

January’s climate in Cusco, Peru, characterised by heavy rainfall, can considerably influence journey plans. Understanding potential disruptions is essential for mitigating inconveniences and making certain a protected and productive journey. The next sides define the first issues.

  • Landslides

    Heavy rainfall will increase the chance of landslides, significantly in mountainous areas just like the Andes. Landslides can block roads, disrupt transportation networks, and isolate communities. Highway closures as a result of landslides are widespread throughout January, probably impacting entry to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and different key locations. Monitoring climate forecasts and heeding native advisories are important for mitigating dangers related to landslides.

  • Flight Delays and Cancellations

    Heavy rain and fog can disrupt flight schedules at Alejandro Velasco Astete Worldwide Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. Flight delays and cancellations are extra frequent throughout January, probably impacting arrival and departure plans. Vacationers ought to keep versatile itineraries and think about journey insurance coverage to handle potential monetary implications of flight disruptions. Checking flight standing frequently and sustaining communication with airways are advisable precautions.

  • Flooding

    River flooding can happen during times of intense rainfall, impacting transportation infrastructure and accessibility to sure areas. Flooding may have an effect on lodging and native providers. Staying knowledgeable about climate situations and potential flood warnings is essential. Selecting lodging positioned away from flood-prone areas and having various journey routes in thoughts can decrease disruptions attributable to flooding.

  • Path Closures

    The Inca Path and different trekking routes could also be briefly closed as a result of heavy rainfall and related hazards like landslides and flooding. Path closures are applied to make sure trekker security. Vacationers planning hikes ought to have contingency plans, contemplating various trekking routes or adjusting journey dates if crucial. Consulting with tour operators and staying up to date on path situations by official channels supplies important info for decision-making.

These potential disruptions spotlight the direct influence of January’s climate on journey throughout the Cusco area. Proactive planning, versatile itineraries, and staying knowledgeable about climate situations and native advisories are essential for navigating these challenges. By understanding these potential disruptions and implementing acceptable mitigation methods, vacationers can decrease inconveniences and guarantee a safer and extra manageable expertise in Cusco in the course of the wet season.

8. Landslides Attainable

The heavy rainfall attribute of Cusco, Peru, in January considerably will increase the potential of landslides. The steep slopes of the Andes Mountains, mixed with saturated soil, create situations conducive to those geological occasions. Understanding the connection between January’s climate and landslide dangers is essential for traveler security and knowledgeable decision-making.

  • Geological Instability

    Extended and intense rainfall saturates the soil, weakening its structural integrity. This saturation reduces friction between soil particles and underlying bedrock, making slopes extra vulnerable to motion. The steep gradients of the Andes exacerbate this instability, growing the chance of landslides. The geological composition of the area, that includes layers of sedimentary rock and volcanic ash, additional contributes to the susceptibility to landslides.

  • Influence on Infrastructure

    Landslides pose important threats to infrastructure, together with roads, bridges, and communication networks. Highway closures as a result of landslides are widespread within the Cusco area throughout January, impacting accessibility to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and different locations. These closures can disrupt journey plans, inflicting delays or necessitating rerouting. Injury to infrastructure may disrupt important providers like electrical energy and water provide, impacting native communities and vacationer amenities.

  • Dangers to Vacationers

    Landslides current direct dangers to vacationers, significantly these mountain climbing or trekking in mountainous areas. Trails can turn into impassable or hazardous as a result of particles and unstable terrain. Landslides may influence the security of transportation, significantly on winding mountain roads. Staying knowledgeable about climate situations, heeding native advisories, and avoiding journey in high-risk areas during times of heavy rainfall are essential security precautions.

  • Mitigation and Preparedness

    Mitigating landslide dangers requires a mix of infrastructure enhancements, early warning programs, and public consciousness campaigns. Engineering options, reminiscent of retaining partitions and drainage programs, can stabilize slopes and cut back landslide susceptibility. Monitoring rainfall patterns and soil moisture ranges permits for the implementation of early warning programs, offering essential time for evacuations and street closures. Educating residents and vacationers about landslide dangers and security procedures promotes preparedness and knowledgeable decision-making.

The potential of landslides is an inherent danger related to Cusco’s climate in January. Understanding the geological elements, infrastructural vulnerabilities, and potential risks to vacationers permits for knowledgeable planning and danger mitigation. By acknowledging this connection between climate and landslide potential, guests can contribute to their very own security and make accountable choices that decrease potential disruptions throughout their travels within the Cusco area.

9. Important packing

Given the prevalence of rainfall in Cusco, Peru throughout January, acceptable rain gear turns into important for a cushty and productive journey. Packing enough safety from the weather ensures continued exploration and minimizes disruptions attributable to inclement climate. The next issues spotlight the important position of rain gear in navigating Cusco’s January local weather.

  • Waterproof Outerwear

    A high-quality waterproof and breathable jacket is paramount. Search for options like sealed seams, adjustable hoods, and sturdy water repellent (DWR) finishes. An extended jacket provides extra safety. Ponchos, whereas light-weight, present much less efficient safety in sustained or heavy rainfall and might be cumbersome in windy situations. A dependable waterproof jacket stays the cornerstone of efficient rain safety in Cusco’s typically unpredictable climate.

  • Waterproof Trousers

    Waterproof trousers supply essential safety from rain and dust, significantly for these partaking in outside actions like trekking or exploring ruins. Light-weight, packable waterproof trousers are perfect for journey. These might be simply carried in a daypack and deployed when wanted, providing a handy and efficient barrier towards moist situations. Combining waterproof trousers with a water-proof jacket ensures complete safety from the weather.

  • Waterproof Footwear

    Sturdy, waterproof footwear is crucial for navigating Cusco’s typically uneven and slippery terrain in the course of the wet season. Climbing boots with waterproof membranes present glorious safety and ankle assist. Alternatively, waterproof strolling footwear supply a lighter choice for metropolis exploration. Selecting footwear with good traction minimizes the chance of slips and falls on moist surfaces, making certain protected and comfy motion all through the town and surrounding areas.

  • Dry Bag or Backpack Cowl

    Defending belongings from rain is equally essential. A dry bag or waterproof backpack cowl safeguards digital gadgets, cameras, paperwork, and different delicate gadgets from moisture harm. Select a dry bag measurement acceptable for the gadgets being carried. A backpack cowl provides a handy various for safeguarding your entire contents of a backpack. This added layer of safety ensures invaluable belongings stay dry, even in heavy downpours, contributing to a worry-free journey expertise.

These important rain gear elements contribute considerably to a cushty and productive expertise in Cusco throughout January’s wet season. Investing in high quality rain gear permits for continued exploration and minimizes disruptions attributable to unpredictable climate, enabling guests to completely admire the area’s wealthy cultural and pure heritage regardless of the prevalent rainfall.

Continuously Requested Questions on Cusco’s Climate in January

This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning Cusco, Peru’s climate in January, offering concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable journey planning and decision-making.

Query 1: How a lot rain can one count on in Cusco throughout January?

January usually experiences important rainfall, averaging between 150mm and 200mm (6-8 inches) all through the month. Rain can happen incessantly, typically lasting for a number of days. Nonetheless, it not often rains constantly all day, typically interspersed with intervals of sunshine.

Query 2: Is it nonetheless attainable to go to Machu Picchu throughout January?

Whereas Machu Picchu stays open to guests throughout January, entry might be affected by heavy rainfall. Landslides could briefly shut the Inca Path or the practice traces to Aguas Calientes, the city on the base of Machu Picchu. Flexibility and contingency plans are essential.

Query 3: What kind of clothes is really helpful for Cusco in January?

Layering is vital. Pack light-weight, breathable clothes for milder daytime temperatures and hotter layers for cooler nights. Waterproof and windproof outerwear, together with a jacket, trousers, and footwear, are important for navigating the wet situations.

Query 4: How does the rain have an effect on outside actions in Cusco throughout January?

Rain can disrupt outside actions, inflicting path closures or making situations much less fulfilling. Flexibility is crucial. Having various indoor actions or backup plans is really helpful in case outside excursions turn into unfeasible.

Query 5: Are there any particular security issues associated to January’s climate?

Landslides pose probably the most important security danger throughout January. Staying knowledgeable about climate forecasts and heeding native advisories is paramount. Avoiding journey in high-risk areas during times of heavy rainfall is really helpful.

Query 6: What are some great benefits of visiting Cusco in January regardless of the rain?

Fewer crowds, lush inexperienced landscapes, and decrease costs on lodging and excursions are potential benefits. The wet season provides a singular perspective on the area’s pure magnificence.

Understanding Cusco’s climate in January permits for life like expectations and knowledgeable preparation. Flexibility, acceptable gear, and consciousness of potential security issues are essential for a rewarding journey expertise.

This FAQ part supplies a basis for the next dialogue of particular journey ideas and proposals for navigating Cusco in January.

Ideas for Navigating Cusco’s Climate in January

Efficiently navigating Cusco, Peru, in January requires preparedness and flexibility to the area’s distinct wet season local weather. The following pointers supply sensible steerage for maximizing consolation and minimizing potential disruptions.

Tip 1: Pack Versatile Layers: Temperature fluctuations between delicate days and cooler nights necessitate versatile layering. Light-weight, quick-drying clothes appropriate for layering types the inspiration of a sensible wardrobe. Packing a mix of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts, fleece jackets, and a heat outer layer permits for adaptable consolation all through the day.

Tip 2: Prioritize Waterproof Gear: A high-quality waterproof jacket, trousers, and footwear are non-negotiable. Defending oneself from the frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall is paramount for sustaining consolation and stopping well being points. Sturdy, waterproof backpacks or dry baggage safeguard belongings from moisture harm.

Tip 3: Embrace Versatile Itineraries: Journey disruptions as a result of landslides, flooding, or flight cancellations are attainable. Sustaining flexibility in itineraries permits for changes and minimizes the influence of unexpected circumstances. Constructing buffer days into journey plans accommodates potential delays.

Tip 4: Monitor Climate Forecasts: Staying knowledgeable about climate patterns and potential hazards permits for proactive changes to journey plans. Usually checking climate forecasts from dependable sources supplies essential info for decision-making.

Tip 5: Heed Native Advisories: Native authorities typically difficulty warnings and advisories concerning street closures, path situations, and security issues. Taking note of these advisories and respecting native steerage enhances security and minimizes dangers.

Tip 6: Think about Altitude Acclimatization: Cusco’s excessive altitude can current challenges, significantly when mixed with chilly temperatures and bodily exertion. Permitting enough time for acclimatization, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous exercise upon arrival are necessary precautions.

Tip 7: Pack Important Medicines: Carrying crucial medicines, together with altitude illness treatments, ache relievers, and any private prescriptions, ensures preparedness for widespread illnesses or surprising well being points.

Tip 8: Select Lodging Properly: Confirming heating preparations in lodging is crucial for comfy nights. Think about elements reminiscent of location, proximity to facilities, and availability of backup energy sources when choosing lodging.

Implementing these sensible ideas ensures a smoother and extra fulfilling expertise navigating Cusco’s climate in January. Preparedness, adaptability, and knowledgeable decision-making contribute to a extra fulfilling and fewer annoying journey expertise.

This assortment of ideas supplies a complete framework for the concluding remarks concerning journey to Cusco in January.

Climate in Cusco, Peru in January

Navigating Cusco’s climate in January requires a nuanced understanding of the interaction between the wet season, excessive altitude, and fluctuating temperatures. Important rainfall, whereas very important for the area’s ecosystem, necessitates thorough preparation and adaptable itineraries. Delicate daytime temperatures distinction sharply with cooler nights, influencing clothes selections and lodging wants. Potential journey disruptions as a result of landslides, flooding, and flight cancellations underscore the significance of flexibility and knowledgeable decision-making. Prioritizing waterproof gear, monitoring climate forecasts, and heeding native advisories are essential for mitigating dangers and making certain a cushty expertise.

Finally, profitable journey throughout this era hinges on knowledgeable preparation and a willingness to embrace the dynamic nature of Cusco’s January local weather. Acknowledging the challenges and implementing acceptable methods permits vacationers to completely admire the area’s wealthy cultural and pure wonders, even amidst the wet season. A practical understanding of prevailing situations empowers guests to navigate potential disruptions and domesticate enriching experiences, fostering a deeper appreciation for the dynamic atmosphere of the Andes.