Last updated: January 18, 2025
Cunene, Angola, experiences a BSh (semi-arid) climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. The region's minimum temperatures can plunge to a brisk 8°C (48°F) in July, while the average temperature stabilizes around a warm 25°C (77°F). The summer months can be particularly intense, with maximum temperatures soaring to an extreme 40°C (105°F) in October. This climate profile highlights the challenges and adaptations necessary for both the local ecosystem and human activities.
Cunene, Angola, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its semi-arid climate. The year begins with warm conditions in January and February, where minimum temperatures hover around 17°C (62°F), and average highs reach up to 38°C (100°F). As the wet season progresses into March and April, temperatures slightly cool, with average highs around 37°C (99°F) but still nearing 39°C (102°F) in March. The transition to the cooler months of May and June brings a notable dip in temperatures, with lows falling to 9°C (48°F). July marks the peak of cool conditions, with consistent averages of 20°C (68°F) and highs no more than 32°C (90°F). As the dry season approaches, temperatures gradually rise in August and September, reaching back to 39°C (102°F) by September. The final quarter of the year sees a gradual return to warmth, with average temperatures in October and November around 28°C (83°F), culminating in December's highs of 39°C (103°F). This annual cycle emphasizes the contrasting cool and warm periods that define Cunene's climate.
In Ondjiva, temperatures display a significant range throughout the year, with the minimum dropping to 8°C (48°F) in July and peaking at a scorching 40°C (105°F) in October. This climate variation highlights the region's diverse weather patterns, making it an intriguing study for those interested in temperature extremes. For more detailed information, please refer to monthly temperatures in Ondjiva.
Cunene, Angola, experiences a pronounced rainy season from January to March, characterized by substantial precipitation levels. January leads the way with 130 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall over approximately 13 days, while February sees an increase to 155 mm (6.1 in) across 12 days. In March, rainfall slightly diminishes to 136 mm (5.4 in), though the wet conditions persist, providing essential moisture for the region. As the rainy season wanes in April, precipitation drops dramatically to 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 6 days, signaling a transition toward drier months.
The months of May through September are strikingly arid, with no recorded rainfall during this period. This dry phase is particularly evident as the region receives a scant 1 mm (0.0 in) in May, followed by three consecutive months of 0 mm (0.0 in). A brief return to precipitation occurs in October, yielding 19 mm (0.7 in) across 2 days, followed by 37 mm (1.5 in) in November, as the rainy season starts to reestablish itself. The end of the year brings additional moisture in December with 101 mm (4.0 in), falling over 12 days, thus illustrating the cyclical nature of Cunenian precipitation patterns, which directly influence the local ecosystem and agricultural practices.
Cunene, Angola, basks in abundant sunshine throughout the year, with a notable seasonal trend of increasing sunlight as the months progress. Starting in January, the region enjoys 284 hours of sunshine, gradually climbing to 316 hours in February. March marks a peak in sunlight, with 329 hours, as the region transitions from the rain-soaked beginning of the year into drier and brighter conditions. The months of April and May continue this upward trajectory, with sunshine hours peaking at 334 hours in May. The height of winter ushers in only a modest dip in daylight, as June and July see 322 and 335 hours respectively, indicating that even during the cooler months, the sun remains a defining feature of the climate.
As Cunene moves into late summer and autumn, the region experiences a dramatic surge in sunshine hours. October stands out, boasting a remarkable 364 hours of sunshine, while November and December follow closely behind with 360 and 367 hours respectively. This period signifies the peak of sunlight for the year, reflecting the region's distinct semi-arid climate. The consistency of clear skies and substantial sunlight during these months not only accentuates the natural beauty of Cunene but also supports local agriculture, making it a vital resource for the community.
Cunene, Angola, experiences exceptionally high UV Index values year-round, reflecting its geographical location and intense sunlight exposure. January and February lead with an extreme UV Index of 17, corresponding to a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. March follows closely with a slight decrease to 16, yet still within the extreme category, maintaining the short exposure times. By April, the UV Index reduces to 13, but it remains classified as extreme, highlighting the continuous need for sun protection. Notably, as the months transition into late spring, the index dips to 10 in May, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes.
The summer months of June and July stabilize with a UV Index of 9, still categorized as very high, which increases outdoor activity risks despite offering a bit more time before sunburn occurs. With the arrival of August, the UV Index rises again to 11, and extreme levels return in September and October, where values reach 13 and 14 respectively, enforcing the necessity of sun protection strategies. November and December keep up the trend, peaking at 15 and 16, solidifying the extreme classification and low burn times. This consistent high UV exposure underscores the importance of awareness and precautions against harmful effects throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Cunene, Angola, the duration of daylight exhibits a fairly stable pattern throughout the year, with slight fluctuations that reflect seasonal changes. January starts the year with 13 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and natural processes. As February transitions into 12 hours, the daylight remains generous, continuing through March. However, a noticeable reduction occurs in April and persists through the following months, with daylight durations dropping to 11 hours from April to September. This mid-year stability suggests consistent lighting conditions that align with the region's semi-arid climate.
As the year progresses towards the end, daylight begins to increase again, moving back to 12 hours in October and November. December closes the year on a high note, returning to 13 hours, mirroring January's length. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration highlights the equatorial positioning of Cunene, where daylight remains relatively constant compared to higher latitudes, ensuring that residents experience consistent sunlight throughout the year while adapting to the seasonal variances that do occur.
Ondjiva, Angola experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in June and July to a peak of 28°C (83°F) in October and November, with maximum highs reaching up to 40°C (105°F) in October. The city sees significant rainfall primarily from January to March, with January being the wettest month at 130 mm (5.1 in), while the dry season spans from May to September. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in the latter part of the year, with October recording the highest at 364 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Ondjiva climate.
In conclusion, Cunene, Angola, offers a unique climate characterized by distinct temperature variations, abundant sunshine, and significant UV exposure throughout the year. The region's semi-arid conditions lead to a pronounced rainy season, primarily from January to March, followed by a dry period that extends through the middle of the year. With extreme UV Index values and ample sunlight, particularly in the latter months, the local climate supports both ecological vitality and agricultural productivity. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for both residents and visitors to effectively navigate the challenges and benefits presented by the environment, ultimately fostering a deeper appreciation for the region's natural rhythms and dependencies.