Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Gambela, Ethiopia, is characterized by a distinct Koppen-Geiger classification of Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate. Temperatures in this region exhibit significant variation throughout the year, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) recorded in January, an average temperature of 28°C (83°F), and peaks reaching a sweltering 41°C (106°F) in March. This temperature profile underscores the extreme heat experienced in the dry season, shaping both the local ecosystem and the agricultural practices of the area.
In Gambela, Ethiopia, temperature patterns reveal a pronounced seasonal variation characterized by a warm tropical climate. The year begins with January's cooler temperatures, featuring a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and averaging 30°C (86°F), gradually rising to warmer months. By March, temperatures peak with a maximum of 41°C (106°F), marking the height of the dry season. As the months progress into April and May, slight fluctuations occur, but high temperatures persist, with averages around 30-32°C (87-90°F) and maximums reaching 41°C (105°F). The onset of the rainy season in June brings a notable decrease in temperatures, with averages dropping to 26°C (80°F) and continued cooling through July and August, where maximums range from 34-35°C (94-95°F). As the year closes, temperatures remain relatively stable in the early months of the rainy season, with averages returning to around 29°C (84°F) by December, marking a gradual transition back to the warmer, drier months ahead.
In Gambela, the climate showcases a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) in January, escalating to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in March, illustrating the region's significant temperature variance. For more details on the monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Gambela.
Gambela, Ethiopia experiences a clear seasonal pattern in precipitation, marked by a distinct dry season from January to March, followed by a pronounced rainy season from April to October. The year begins with no recorded rainfall in January, with minimal precipitation of 3 mm (0.1 in) in February, and only 11 mm (0.5 in) in March. As the rainy season approaches, a significant increase in rainfall is observed in April, with 59 mm (2.3 in), which escalates dramatically to 113 mm (4.4 in) in May and peaks in July with 141 mm (5.5 in), indicating the wettest month of the year.
Following the peak rainfall in July, precipitation gradually decreases but remains substantial, with 108 mm (4.2 in) in August and 75 mm (2.9 in) in September, before experiencing a decline into the dry season. The months of October and November see precipitation levels of 103 mm (4.0 in) and 43 mm (1.7 in), respectively, while December receives only 9 mm (0.3 in). This seasonal precipitation pattern not only influences the local agriculture and water availability but also plays a critical role in the ecological dynamics of the region.
In Gambela, Ethiopia, sunshine duration exhibits a clear upward trend from the beginning of the year, highlighting a significant increase in daylight as the region transitions from the cooler winter months to the warmer summer period. January starts off with 270 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 301 hours in February and peaking at 334 hours in March, marking the sunniest month of the year. The slightly warmer months of April and May maintain impressive sunshine records, averaging around 321-322 hours, indicating that the transition to the wet season does not drastically curtail sunlight availability.
As the rainy season unfolds from June to August, there is a slight dip in sunshine hours, with June receiving 310 hours and July dropping to 305 hours. However, August rebounds slightly with 322 hours, demonstrating that while cloud cover may increase during this period, significant sunlight is still accessible. Subsequently, as the year comes to a close, sunshine hours remain relatively stable, with October recording 323 hours and December reaching 327 hours. Overall, the consistent pattern of abundant sunshine throughout the year underscores Gambela's favorable climatic conditions, ideal for agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits.
In Gambela, Ethiopia, the UV Index reflects consistently high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, with values frequently reaching the extreme exposure category. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 11, the region experiences a progressive increase, peaking at 14 in August. During the months of March, April, May, and July, the UV Index remains steady at 13, indicating a sustained risk for prolonged sun exposure. Notably, the burn time remains short across these months, typically around 10 minutes, which underscores the importance of sun protection for the local population and visitors alike.
As the year winds down, the UV Index slightly decreases, showing a gradual migration towards very high levels by December, with an Index of 9 and an extended burn time of 15 minutes. This trend reflects a typical shift as the sun's intensity wanes during the final months of the year, although caution is still advised due to the significant radiation levels. Overall, the persistent high UV Index in Gambela emphasizes the necessity for protective measures against sunburn and long-term skin damage, particularly during the peak months of the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Gambela, Ethiopia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, characterized by approximately 11 to 12 hours of sunlight each day. The year starts with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a consistent amount of light during the cooler months. As March arrives, daylight begins to extend slightly, reaching 12 hours and maintaining this duration from March through September. This consistency during the mid-year months is beneficial for agriculture and outdoor activities, allowing residents to maximize their use of daylight.
As the year transitions towards the end, daylight duration again stabilizes at 11 hours in October, November, and December. This reduction marks a return to shorter days as the region shifts back towards a cooler climate. Despite this reduction, the overall range of 11 to 12 hours of daylight throughout the year reflects Gambela's equatorial location, contributing to a favorable environment for both productivity and leisure throughout all seasons. The stable sunlight hours enable a predictable routine for agricultural practices and community life.
Gambela, Ethiopia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in March. The wet season peaks from May to July, with July recording the highest precipitation at 141 mm (5.5 in). Despite the rainy months, Gambela enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in March, with up to 334 hours. For detailed information, visit Gambela climate.
In conclusion, Gambela, Ethiopia, features a climate characterized by high temperatures, significant sunlight, and consistent UV exposure, underscoring the region's unique weather patterns. With a tropical savanna climate and distinct seasonal variations in precipitation and temperature, Gambela showcases a dynamic environment that influences both local ecosystems and agricultural practices. The steady daylight duration of 11 to 12 hours throughout the year, coupled with high UV Index levels, highlights the importance of sun protection and careful management of outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for optimizing agricultural productivity and ensuring the well-being of the population in this vibrant region.