Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR) in Ethiopia is characterized by a diverse range of Koppen-Geiger climate classes, including Cfb, Aw, and Cwb. This region experiences a distinct temperature variation, with minimum temperatures dropping to 3°C (39°F) in January and maximum highs reaching an impressive 42°C (108°F) in March. The average temperature across the region hovers around 20°C (69°F), reflecting a rich climatic tapestry that supports both agricultural practices and diverse ecosystems.
In SNNPR, Ethiopia, temperature patterns exhibit notable seasonal trends throughout the year. The region experiences its coldest months in January and February, where minimum temperatures range from 3°C (39°F) to 6°C (43°F), accompanied by average highs peaking at 42°C (107°F). As the climate transitions into the warmer months of March and April, minimums gradually rise to 9°C (48°F) while average temperatures hover around 21°C (71°F). The peak warmth occurs between February and March, with maximum temperatures consistently reaching 42°C (108°F). From June to August, the temperatures begin to stabilize, with a slight dip in both average and maximum values to around 19°C (66-67°F), indicating a milder, more temperate period. As the year progresses into the fall months of September through November, temperatures moderate further, maintaining average lows of about 5°C (42°F) and consistent highs near 40°C (104°F), thus shaping a distinctive climatic rhythm that reflects the region's unique ecological characteristics.
In Arba Minch, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) in January to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in March, making it a relatively mild destination during those months monthly temperatures in Arba Minch. Meanwhile, Hawassa experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) in January and a peak of 32°C (89°F) in March monthly temperatures in Hawassa. In contrast, Turmi showcases a warmer climate, starting from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in December and soaring to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in March, appealing to those seeking hotter weather monthly temperatures in Turmi.
Precipitation in SNNPR, Ethiopia, reveals distinct seasonal patterns characterized by a pronounced wet period from March to October. January begins with minimal rainfall at just 16 mm (0.6 in), marking the onset of the dry season. However, as the months progress into February and March, precipitation significantly escalates, culminating in 88 mm (3.5 in) in March. The peak rainfall occurs in May, where totals soar to 249 mm (9.8 in), coinciding with the transition into the main rainy season. This vigorous precipitation continues through June and July, maintaining high levels around 162 mm (6.4 in) and 164 mm (6.4 in), respectively, further establishing the region's hydrological intensity.
The distribution of rainy days in SNNPR reflects this wet season, with April seeing the highest frequency at 20 days, emphasizing the critical role of consistent rainfall for agriculture and water resources. Although rainfall begins to taper off in late autumn, October still records significant precipitation at 230 mm (9.0 in), followed by a decrease in November to 116 mm (4.6 in). The pattern concludes in December with just 38 mm (1.5 in), highlighting the seasonal ebb and flow of precipitation, critical for sustaining the ecological balance and agricultural viability in this vibrant region.
In SNNPR, Ethiopia, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's climatic variations throughout the year. Beginning in January with 279 hours of sunshine, the daylight hours gradually increase as the region transitions into the warmer months. The peak occurs in March, where sunshine reaches an impressive 342 hours, contributing to the region's vibrant agricultural activity during this growing season. Following March, the hours slightly decrease but remain substantial, maintaining levels around 315 to 328 hours from April through August, allowing for consistent sunlight that aids in crop maturation and productivity.
As the year progresses into the latter months, sunshine duration remains relatively stable but begins to exhibit a noticeable rise in December, peaking again at 343 hours. This pattern suggests a significant amount of sunlight even during the transition into the cooler dry season. Despite some fluctuations, the overall trend highlights a robust availability of solar energy, particularly during the main agricultural months of March to May, which are critical for farming endeavors in the region. This information points to the importance of utilizing solar resources effectively in agricultural planning and water management strategies within SNNPR.
In SNNPR, Ethiopia, the UV Index exhibits consistently high levels throughout the year, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Beginning with a UV Index of 14 in January, the region experiences only slight fluctuations as the months progress, peaking at 16 from February to April. During this period, the recommended burn time remains alarmingly short at just 10 minutes, emphasizing the critical need for protective measures against intense solar radiation. This extreme exposure category underscores the importance of raising awareness about UV safety for residents and visitors alike, particularly during the sunniest months.
As the year advances into the latter half, the UV Index remains elevated, though it slightly declines to 12 by December. Notably, levels around 13 to 15 persist from June to October, maintaining the extreme classification and reinforcing the need for vigilance during daily activities outside. Even with reduced UV levels towards the end of the year, the risk remains significant, necessitating continued public education on skin protection and sun safety practices. This persistence of high UV indices throughout the seasons highlights the region’s unique climatic conditions and the importance of proactive health measures to minimize the risk of UV-related health issues.
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In SNNPR, Ethiopia, daylight duration shows a remarkably consistent pattern throughout the year, primarily fluctuating between 11 to 12 hours. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable backdrop for local activities. As the region transitions into March, daylight slightly increases to 12 hours, remaining constant until the end of September. This steady amount of daylight during the spring and summer months supports agricultural practices, allowing for ample time to tend to crops and gather resources.
As autumn approaches, the daylight duration begins to decrease again, returning to 11 hours in October and persisting through December. This cyclical pattern underscores the relatively uniform length of day experienced in SNNPR, which is characteristic of regions near the equator. The consistency in daylight hours throughout the year fosters a strong agricultural cycle, enabling farmers to plan their planting and harvesting effectively while also promoting a steady rhythm of daily life in the community.
Arba Minch, Ethiopia, experiences a mild climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) in July to 21°C (70°F) in February and March. The region sees significant precipitation, particularly in April and October, with rainfall peaking at 522 mm (20.5 in) in October. Sunshine is abundant, with an impressive high of 342 hours in December, making it one of the sunniest months. Despite heavy rains, the average temperatures remain pleasant throughout the year, contributing to its lush landscapes. For more details, visit Arba Minch climate.
Hawassa, Ethiopia experiences a mild climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in March. The wettest months are April and May, receiving 147 mm (5.8 in) and 179 mm (7.1 in) of precipitation, respectively, while January sees the least at 6 mm (0.2 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, with over 280 hours of sunlight in most months, peaking at 348 hours in March. For more details, visit Hawassa climate.
Jinka, Ethiopia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. Average monthly temperatures range from 21°C (71°F) in July to 25°C (77°F) in the warmer months of February and March, with maximums reaching up to 36°C (96°F). Rainfall peaks in April, accumulating 144 mm (5.7 in), while the drier months of January and February see significantly lower precipitation. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with December boasting the highest total of 345 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jinka climate.
The climate in Konso, Ethiopia is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with January averaging 26°C (79°F) and peaking at 38°C (101°F) in February and March. The wettest months are April and May, receiving 61 mm and 65 mm of rain, respectively, which significantly influences the lushness of the surrounding terrain. Despite rainfall, Konso enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in March with 349 hours, and least in July, with 287 hours. Overall, the region experiences a balanced climate, making it an interesting place for agriculture and tourism. For more details, visit Konso climate.
Turmi, Ethiopia experiences a primarily warm climate with temperatures averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (82°F) throughout the year. The hottest months are March and February, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C (102°F). Rainfall peaks in April, accumulating 143 mm (5.6 in), while the driest conditions occur in January with only 14 mm (0.6 in). Despite considerable rainfall, Turmi enjoys abundant sunshine, averaging around 331 hours monthly, peaking at 349 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Turmi climate.
In conclusion, SNNPR, Ethiopia, showcases a dynamic interplay of climatic elements, from temperature and precipitation to sunshine duration and UV exposure. With a distinct seasonal rhythm, the region experiences not only high temperatures but also significant rainfall during the main agricultural months, fostering a vibrant ecosystem conducive to farming. The consistent daylight duration and extreme UV Index levels highlight the necessity for protective practices, particularly during peak sunlight hours. Overall, understanding these climatic patterns serves as a vital tool for local communities and policymakers alike, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices while safeguarding public health in this ecologically rich region.