Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Manzini, Eswatini, is characterized by a Köppen-Geiger classification of Cwa and Cwb, indicating a temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region experiences a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) in July, highlighting its potential for chilly winters. On average, temperatures hover around 18°C (65°F), contributing to a mild year-round environment. However, the mercury can soar to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in November, reflecting the intense heat that can occur during the peak summer months. This climatic variability plays a pivotal role in shaping the local ecology and agricultural practices.
The temperature patterns in Manzini, Eswatini, showcase distinct seasonal trends that reflect the region's diverse climate. Summer months, particularly January through March, are characterized by warm days with average temperatures around 21°C to 22°C (70°F to 72°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F). As the year progresses into autumn, April and May see a gradual cooling, with averages dropping to 19°C (66°F) in April and 16°C (62°F) in May, alongside noticeable minimum temperatures, sometimes dipping to 2°C (35°F). The winter months of June and July present the coldest periods, with minimums reaching -1°C (31°F) and average temperatures around 14°C (58°F). However, moving into spring, temperatures start to rise again, with September and October experiencing milder conditions averaging 18°C (64°F), culminating in a peak during November, when temperatures can soar to 39°C (102°F). The year rounds off with December bringing a subtle return to warmth, setting the stage for another cycle of seasonal variability.
In Manzini, temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) in June and a maximum soaring to 39°C (102°F) in November. This wide temperature range highlights the region's diverse climate, making it essential to consider the seasonal variations when planning activities. For more detailed information, you can check the monthly temperatures in Manzini here.
In Manzini, Eswatini, precipitation is heavily concentrated in the summer months, with January and February receiving the highest recorded rainfall of 156 mm (6.2 in) and 200 mm (7.9 in), respectively. This period accounts for significant moisture, with rainfall occurring on approximately 14 to 17 days each month. Following this peak, March experiences a decrease, bringing 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain over 13 days. As the region transitions into late autumn and early winter, rainfall diminishes markedly, with April only seeing 64 mm (2.5 in) across 10 days and May dropping further to 27 mm (1.1 in) on just 4 days.
The dry season extends into winter, where June and July witness minimal precipitation, with only 17 mm (0.7 in) and 6 mm (0.2 in), respectively, the latter month recording no significant rainfall days. However, August sees a slight uptick with 30 mm (1.2 in) spread over 6 days, followed by September and October with 44 mm (1.8 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in), respectively. The wet season resumes in November, delivering 120 mm (4.7 in) across 15 days, and concludes with 148 mm (5.8 in) in December. Overall, the annual precipitation cycle in Manzini stands out for its pronounced wet season, crucial for the region's agriculture and water resources.
Manzini, Eswatini, basks in ample sunshine throughout the year, showcasing a clear seasonal pattern in sunlight duration. The year kicks off with 290 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing until reaching a peak in March with 340 hours. This early part of the year tends to offer a good balance of warm temperatures and diminishing cloud cover, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities. As the seasons shift into the dry winter months, the sunshine remains fairly consistent, with May, June, and July recording 295 to 314 hours, ensuring plenty of bright, sunny days for residents.
As spring approaches in October, sunshine hours begin to climb again, peaking at 347 hours in December. This increase reflects the transition back into the summer season, where longer days and warmer temperatures contribute to heightened sunlight exposure. Notably, December emerges as the month with the most sunshine, indicative of the region's vibrant summer climate. Throughout the year, Manzini exhibits a robust pattern where sunlight enhances both the natural landscapes and agricultural activities, with the peak months from March to December providing ideal conditions for growth and enjoyment of the outdoors.
The UV Index in Manzini, Eswatini, exhibits significant variability throughout the year, reflecting the region's intense sun exposure, especially during the summer months. Beginning in January, the UV Index peaks at 16, categorizing it as extreme, and necessitating a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This extreme exposure continues through February and March, with values of 15 and 13, respectively, underscoring the need for robust sun protection measures during this high-risk period. As the seasons transition, April sees a slight decline to a UV Index of 10, still classified as very high, indicating that caution is still warranted.
Entering the cooler months, the UV Index remains notably high but begins to moderate; May and June both report a UV Index of 7 and 6, categorizing exposure as high with burn times increasing to 25 minutes. The trend continues into July, maintaining a 6 rating, which highlights the persistent sun exposure even in winter. However, as the year progresses into late winter and spring, the Index spikes again, particularly in October and November, with values hitting 13 and 14, marking a return to extreme conditions requiring vigilant sun protection. Overall, the UV Index in Manzini serves as a reminder of the importance of appropriate sun safety measures year-round, particularly during the intense summer months.
UV Risk Categories
In Manzini, Eswatini, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, influenced by the transition between summer and winter. The year begins with the longest days of 13 hours of daylight in January, gradually decreasing to 12 hours in February and March as the summer months give way to cooler temperatures. By April, daylight hours drop further to 11 hours, marking the approach of winter as it reaches its nadir in May through July, where daylight duration is consistently around 10 hours. This seasonal decrease in sunlight hours typically coincides with the cooler weather and a reduction in outdoor activities.
As winter wanes and spring approaches, daylight duration begins a gradual ascent, with August and September witnessing an increase back to 11 hours. The trend continues into October, where daylight extends to 12 hours, setting the stage for a surge in brightness as the year concludes. November and December bring 13 hours of daylight once again, allowing for ample sunlight as the region embraces the summer season. This cyclical pattern not only supports the local ecology but also impacts lifestyle, agriculture, and energy use, reinforcing the importance of understanding daylight dynamics in Manzini.
Manzini, Eswatini experiences a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 2°C (37°F) in June to a high of 39°C (102°F) in November. The region sees its highest rainfall in February, averaging 170 mm (6.7 in), while the driest month is July with only 4 mm (0.2 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and December, with over 330 hours of sunlight recorded. Overall, Manzini has a distinct wet and dry season, making it a vibrant area for both agriculture and tourism. For more details, visit Manzini climate.
In conclusion, the climatic characteristics of Manzini, Eswatini, reveal a compelling interplay between temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region showcases distinct seasonal trends, with intense summer heat accompanied by ample rainfall and elevated UV exposure, particularly from January through March. As the year progresses, the transition into winter brings cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, yet sunlight remains vital for both agriculture and daily life. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for local residents and policymakers alike, as they navigate the implications for health, environmental sustainability, and agricultural productivity in this vibrant region of Eswatini.