Last updated: January 18, 2025
Nord Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo exhibits a unique climate profile classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Cfb (Oceanic) and As (Tropical Monsoon). The region experiences a minimum temperature of 10°C (51°F) in March, rising to an average of 20°C (68°F) throughout the year. Notably, the maximum temperature peaks at 35°C (95°F) in February, illustrating the region's variability and the influence of both seasonal changes and monsoonal winds. This climatic diversity plays a crucial role in the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of the area.
In Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, temperature patterns exhibit a moderate range throughout the year, characterized by distinct seasonal trends. The region experiences relatively cool minimum temperatures averaging between 10°C (51°F) and 12°C (54°F), typically occurring during the months of March and the dry season from June to September. Average temperatures remain fairly stable, hovering around 19°C (67°F) to 21°C (69°F), especially in the transitional months of February and April. Maximum temperatures peak in February at 35°C (95°F), with consistent highs of 30-34°C (86-94°F) prevailing from January through March. This gradual cooling trend into the wet season highlights the region's subtropical monsoon influences, which ultimately shape its unique climatic conditions.
Beni experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in June to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in February, making it warmest in the earlier part of the year. In contrast, Butembo sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in December and a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in March, indicating its peak warmth during the transition from winter to spring. Goma, on the other hand, has a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) in July to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) in October. For more details, visit the links for Beni, Butembo, and Goma: monthly temperatures in Beni, monthly temperatures in Butembo, and monthly temperatures in Goma.
Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a pronounced wet season, characterized by substantial monthly precipitation that peaks in the latter half of the year. January begins the year with a total of 101 mm (4.0 in) over 12 days, but rainfall intensifies significantly as the months progress. The region sees an alarmingly high precipitation level of 413 mm (16.3 in) in October, followed closely by 356 mm (14.0 in) in November. This period is marked by frequent rainfall, with as many as 28 days of rain in October alone, contributing to the lush biodiversity of the area.
The spring months from March through May also reveal a marked increase in rainfall, averaging around 243 mm (9.6 in) in March and stabilizing at 294 mm (11.6 in) in both April and May. This is accompanied by a corresponding increase in rainy days, peaking at 26 days in April. The relatively drier months occur during June and July, with rainfall tapering to 206 mm (8.1 in) and 152 mm (6.0 in) respectively. However, even in these months, precipitation remains significant, continuing to shape the region's ecosystems and agricultural practices. Overall, the precipitation patterns in Nord Kivu demonstrate a clear seasonal rhythm, vital for sustaining its diverse habitats.
In Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal pattern that reflects the region's unique climatic conditions. The year kicks off in January with 263 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing through the early months. By March, the region enjoys a peak of 303 hours of sunshine, as daylight hours extend in anticipation of the impending dry season. This trend continues through May, where sunshine reaches a remarkable 315 hours, making it one of the sunniest months of the year, alongside December, which also sees 315 hours.
The transition from spring to summer reveals a continuing rise in sunshine, culminating in 324 hours in July, the month with the highest sunlight exposure. Following this peak, sunshine hours slightly decrease but remain substantial, with 314 hours in August and 296 hours in September. As the year progresses into the wet season, sunshine hours gradually decline, yet the averages remain relatively high, hovering around 290-300 hours. This pattern underscores the importance of sunlight for the region's agriculture and ecosystems, particularly during the predominantly sunny dry months, which contrast sharply with the rainy season's overcast days.
In Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UV Index consistently displays extreme levels throughout the year, posing significant health risks for residents and visitors alike. Starting with a UV Index of 15 in January, the intensity peaks at 16 from February through April, accompanied by a remarkably short burn time of just 10 minutes. This extended period of high UV radiation highlights the need for protective measures to mitigate potential skin damage and increase awareness about sun safety, especially during these peak months.
As the year progresses into the late spring and summer, the UV Index begins to decline slightly, yet it remains notably high, with values reaching 14 in May and 12-13 from June to October. Even during the cooler months, extreme exposure remains a constant concern, as the burn time stays at 10 minutes across all months. This sustained intensity reinforces the importance of adopting precautionary practices, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, to safeguard against the persistent UV radiation prevalent in the region. Overall, the ongoing extreme UV Index in Nord Kivu serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in sun protection throughout the entire year.
UV Risk Categories
In Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout the entire year, with an unchanging total of 12 hours each month. This stable pattern reflects the region's proximity to the equator, resulting in minimal variation in day length regardless of the season. Such consistency allows for predictable cycles of daylight and darkness, which is particularly beneficial for local agricultural practices and daily activities.
The presence of equal hours of daylight fosters a unique environmental balance, supporting diverse ecosystems thriving in Nord Kivu's lush landscapes. Additionally, the stable daylight hours contribute to a dependable solar energy potential, enabling effective utilization of renewable resources. Overall, this uniformity in daylight duration, remaining constant year-round, underscores the dynamic interplay between the region's climate and its ecosystem, facilitating endurance and resilience in both nature and human activities.
Beni, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) throughout the year, peaking in February. Precipitation is abundant, particularly from April to October, with May recording the highest rainfall at 673 mm (26.5 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, with May offering the most at 323 hours. For more detailed information, visit Beni climate.
Butembo, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures range from a low of 13°C (56°F) in December to a high of 33°C (92°F) in March and February. The wettest months are September and October, with precipitation reaching up to 263 mm (10.3 in) per month. Despite the heavy rainfall, Butembo enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the dry months of January and February, with over 270 hours of sunlight per month. For more detailed information, visit Butembo climate.
Goma, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by mild temperatures year-round. Average daily temperatures typically range from 19°C (67°F) to 24°C (75°F), with cooler periods in July. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from October to November, where monthly precipitation can exceed 300 mm (11.8 in). In contrast, the dry months of June and July see considerably less rain, averaging just 45 mm (1.8 in) and 93 mm (3.7 in) respectively. For more detailed climate information, visit Goma climate.
Sake, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by moderate temperatures and significant rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from 17°C (63°F) in cooler months to 18°C (65°F) year-round, with highs peaking at 27°C (80°F) in March. Precipitation is highest from October to April, with October seeing the most rainfall at 367 mm (14.4 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the dry months of June and July, averaging over 300 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Sake climate.
In conclusion, Nord Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is characterized by its unique climatic conditions and environmental dynamics, marked by consistent daylight duration, extreme UV Index levels, and notable precipitation patterns. The stable 12-hour day length throughout the year supports both agricultural practices and the rich biodiversity of the region, while the extreme UV Index emphasizes the need for protective measures among residents and visitors. Furthermore, the pronounced wet and dry seasons in conjunction with significant sunshine hours highlight the intricate balance of ecosystems thriving in this area. Understanding these elements is crucial for fostering sustainable practices and promoting awareness of environmental challenges that may arise due to changing climatic conditions.