The Mystical City: 600 Years Without Rain, Yet Eternally Blessed With Spring-Like Weather

Lima – The City of Eternal Sun

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a city like no other. With a unique climate, this bustling metropolis boasts a population of over 9 million people and spans an area of 804.3 square kilometers. What sets Lima apart is its near-absence of rainfall for centuries, yet its climate remains pleasantly cool, resembling an eternal spring.

The city is home to a diverse population, with over 90% identifying as Mestizo, a mix of European and Indigenous American heritage. It also hosts smaller communities of White, Black, and Asian residents, with a notable presence of Japanese descendants. Lima is the cultural, industrial, financial, and transportation hub of Peru.

What truly sets Lima apart is its climate. For over 600 years, the city has experienced little to no rainfall, a phenomenon unheard of in most parts of the world. The streets of Lima lack storm drains, and umbrellas and raincoats are obsolete. In fact, many residents have never witnessed rainfall in their lifetimes.

A City Without Rain

The last recorded rainfall in Lima occurred over 600 years ago, earning it the title of the world’s only rainless city. However, ‘rain’ in Lima takes on a unique form. Instead of the typical rainfall, the city experiences a thick fog that blankets the city, leaving a slight dampness in its wake.

Housing in Lima, particularly in lower-income areas, reflects this unique climate. Many residences lack roofs, and some are even constructed using cardboard. The absence of rainfall and the mild climate make roofs seem unnecessary.

Unraveling the Mystery

Lima’s average annual rainfall is exceptionally low, ranging between 10mm and 15mm. To put this into perspective, this amount is less than a fifth of the average rainfall in the Sahara Desert, one of the driest places on Earth. Hence, Lima is often referred to as the “city without rain.”

Meteorologists attribute this phenomenon to Lima’s unique geographical location. Despite being situated in the tropics, the city is influenced by the cold waters of the Peru Current. This prevents the formation of rain-bearing clouds, resulting in the city’s remarkable dryness.

Additionally, Lima’s proximity to the ocean and the presence of the renowned Mark River ensure a plentiful supply of groundwater. The city has never faced water scarcity, and its water sources are more than sufficient for all activities.

Aerial views of Lima reveal a city surrounded by deserts, coastline, and golden sands, creating a breathtaking landscape. The city draws its water supply from the Aprikh River, formed by the melting snow of the Andes Mountains.

Lima also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with numerous Inca ruins. It is a significant economic and cultural hub in South America, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity.