Last updated: January 18, 2025
Atsimo-Andrefana, located in southern Madagascar, showcases a diverse climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system with BSh (semi-arid), Cfa (humid subtropical), and Aw (tropical savanna) classes. This region experiences a significant temperature range, with minimums dipping to 7°C (45°F) in July, while average temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F). Notably, February can see scorching maximums soaring to 42°C (108°F), reflecting the climatic extremes and variability typical of this unique Malagasy landscape.
In Atsimo-Andrefana, Madagascar, temperature patterns reveal distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The region experiences its hottest months from January to February, with maximum temperatures consistently exceeding 40°C (104°F); January and February both peak at 41°C (105°F) and 42°C (108°F), respectively. As the seasons transition into cooler months, March and April introduce a gradual decline, with maximums reducing to around 39°C (102°F) and 38°C (101°F). Temperatures continue to drop in May and June, marking the onset of cooler weather; minimums reach a low of 7°C (45°F) in July, the coldest month. The latter half of the year exhibits a stabilization around the lower twenties for averages, before showing a modest rise again in November and December, as temperatures warm back to averages of 27°C (80°F) and 28°C (82°F), while the cooler months retain highs in the mid-thirties. This cyclical pattern not only shapes the region's climate but also influences local ecosystems and agricultural practices.
In Toliara, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) in July to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in January, while Anakao experiences similar minimum temperatures of 13°C (55°F) in July but can reach up to 40°C (105°F) in January. For more detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Toliara and monthly temperatures in Anakao.
Atsimo-Andrefana experiences a pronounced seasonal fluctuation in precipitation, primarily concentrated in the warmer months. January and February are characterized by significant rainfall, with 124 mm (4.9 in) and 127 mm (5.0 in), respectively, often resulting in approximately 13 and 12 days of rain each month. This wet season is crucial for replenishing local water sources and supporting agriculture. Following this peak, March sees a steep decline to 51 mm (2.0 in) of rain, reducing to only 21 mm (0.8 in) in April, which highlights the transition toward the drier months.
As the year progresses into the dry season, Atsimo-Andrefana's rainfall diminishes dramatically, with June and July recording just 8 mm (0.3 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in), respectively, often resulting in no significant rain days during July and August. The trend of minimal precipitation continues into October, but a slight uptick occurs in November with 28 mm (1.1 in), and December brings a further increase to 60 mm (2.4 in), signaling the onset of another wet season. This pattern not only shapes the region's climate but also dictates local agricultural cycles and water management strategies.
Atsimo-Andrefana experiences a remarkable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, showcasing a clear seasonal trend that aligns closely with the region's climatic shifts. The peak sunshine months occur towards the end of the year, with December boasting an impressive 396 hours of sunlight, closely followed by November at 375 hours. This gradual increase in sunshine hours begins in March, reaching its zenith in October and November, which are critical periods for solar energy and agricultural productivity. The sunlight serves as a vital resource for local communities, enhancing crop yields and sustaining ecosystems.
Conversely, the earlier months of the year exhibit a decrease in sunshine hours, particularly in January and February, where totals stand at 306 hours and 322 hours, respectively. This decrease coincides with the height of the rainy season when cloud cover often obscures sunlight. As the months progress into the drier seasons of mid-year, sunshine durations stabilize with comfortable averages, such as 309 hours in June and 323 hours in July. However, it is during the transition to the end of the year that Atsimo-Andrefana fully embraces an abundance of sunshine, reinforcing the connection between sunlight availability and seasonal agricultural cycles, as well as the overall well-being of the local population.
In Atsimo-Andrefana, Madagascar, the UV Index exhibits significant variability throughout the year, reflecting the region's intense solar exposure. The months of January and February stand out with UV Index values reaching extreme levels of 16 and 17, respectively, necessitating protective measures as the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes. This extreme UV exposure underscores the need for adequate sun protection, particularly during the peak of the rainy season when people may spend more time outdoors without awareness of the potential harm from the sun's rays.
As the year progresses, the UV Index begins to display a gradual decline moving into late spring and summer. The values remain high but notch down, with May at 8 (very high category) and June through July stabilizing at 7 (high category), allowing for slightly increased burn times of around 25 minutes. Interestingly, as August rolls around, the UV Index rises again to 9, dropping back to extreme levels in September and October, with values of 11 and 13, respectively. This cyclical pattern illustrates the importance of sun safety year-round, particularly during the months with high and extreme UV exposure, as residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation.
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In Atsimo-Andrefana, Madagascar, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, typically characterized by longer days at the beginning and end of the year. January starts off with approximately 13 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural practices. This trend continues into November and December, where daylight returns to the same length, highlighting a significant amount of light available during the summer months. Such extended periods of sunlight are crucial for solar energy utilization and support the region's vibrant ecosystems.
As the year progresses from late summer into winter, daylight hours gradually decrease, reaching a low of 10 hours in May, June, and July. This mid-year reduction reflects the changing seasons and impacts daily life, as residents must adapt to shorter days. However, daylight duration begins to increase again in August, signaling the transition towards longer days as the year draws to a close. By October, daylight returns to 12 hours, setting the stage for the sunnier months ahead. This cyclical variation in daylight duration not only influences the lifestyle of local communities but also plays a vital role in agricultural cycles and ecological processes.
Anakao, Madagascar, experiences a warm tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round, with average daily highs around 29°C (84°F). The hottest months are typically January and February, reaching maximums of 40°C (104°F-105°F), while the cooler months, June and July, average around 22°C (72°F). Rainfall is concentrated from January to March, with January receiving the most precipitation at 75 mm (3.0 in), while the dry season spans from June to August with minimal rainfall. Anakao enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in December with 399 hours, making it an appealing destination year-round. For more details, visit Anakao climate.
Toliara, Madagascar, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant sunshine throughout the year. January and February are the warmest months, with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and maximums reaching up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is highest in January (116 mm) and gradually decreases, with July and August being the driest months. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in December with 398 hours, making Toliara a bright and warm destination. For more detailed information, visit Toliara climate.
In conclusion, Atsimo-Andrefana, Madagascar, presents a dynamic interplay of climate parameters, from temperature and precipitation to sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region's seasonal trends significantly impact both the environment and the daily lives of its inhabitants. The transformation from extreme heat and abundant sunlight in the wet season to cooler temperatures and diminished sunlight in the dry season showcases nature's rhythm, while the high UV Index reinforces the need for sun safety. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for effective agricultural planning, resource management, and public health initiatives, ensuring that the local community can thrive amidst the unique challenges and opportunities presented by their environment.