Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sava, Madagascar, is characterized by a humid tropical rainforest climate, classified under the Koppen-Geiger climate classification as Af. This region experiences a varied temperature range throughout the year, with a striking minimum of 9°C (49°F) recorded in August, rising to an average annual temperature of 24°C (75°F). The warmest month, February, sees highs reaching 35°C (94°F), illustrating the region's warm climate. These climatic conditions contribute to Sava's rich biodiversity and dynamic ecosystems, making it a unique area of study in the context of global climate patterns.
In Sava, Madagascar, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends marked by a tropical climate. The year begins with warm temperatures in January and February, where minimums hover around 16°C to 17°C (62°F to 63°F) and maximums peak at 34°C to 35°C (93°F to 94°F), indicating the region's hottest months. As the year progresses into March and April, there is a slight cooling trend, with averages falling to 25°C (77°F) and a gradual decrease in maximum temperatures. From May to August, the cooler winter months are evident, with minimum temperatures dipping to as low as 9°C (49°F) in August, and average temperatures ranging between 21°C and 24°C (71°F to 75°F). This cool period transitions into warmer conditions again during September and October, with averages returning to the mid-20s and maximums gradually increasing, before culminating in the heat of December. This cyclical pattern highlights Sava’s seasonal temperature fluctuations and its overall tropical characteristics.
Sambava experiences mild temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in August to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in February monthly temperatures in Sambava. In nearby Andapa, temperatures can drop lower, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in August, while also reaching up to 32°C (90°F) in February monthly temperatures in Andapa. Antalaha shows a slightly warmer profile, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in September to a peak of 34°C (93°F) in December monthly temperatures in Antalaha.
Sava, Madagascar, experiences a significant variation in precipitation throughout the year, with a pronounced wet season from January to March. January records a substantial 241 mm (9.5 in) of rainfall, closely followed by 227 mm (8.9 in) in February. March is particularly noteworthy, receiving the highest monthly total of 430 mm (16.9 in), underscoring its role as the peak of the rainy season. This period is characterized by frequent rain events, with precipitation occurring on average more than 25 days in January and February, indicating the intensity and consistency of rainfall during these months.
As the rainy season transitions into the drier months, precipitation significantly declines from April onwards, with April receiving 188 mm (7.4 in), and May seeing just 99 mm (3.9 in). The dry season reaches its minimum in August, where only 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain falls, supported by a decrease in rainy days to around 19. During this drier period, precipitation gradually begins to increase again, with November and December bringing 80 mm (3.2 in) and 185 mm (7.3 in), respectively, marking the onset of the next wet season. This cyclical pattern of rainfall is essential for sustaining the region's lush tropical ecosystems.
In Sava, Madagascar, sunshine duration displays a remarkable seasonal pattern, characterized by a steady increase from the early months of the year into late spring. Starting with 275 hours of sunshine in January, the region experiences a gradual rise throughout February and March, culminating in an impressive 317 hours. April and May continue this upward trend, peaking in May at 322 hours, just before the transition into the drier season. This increase is notably significant from winter to summer, as clearer skies coincide with rising temperatures during this period.
As Sava moves into the latter part of the year, sunshine hours reach a zenith in October, with a remarkable 356 hours, followed closely by 351 hours in November and peaking at 362 hours in December. This late-year sunshine abundance reflects not only the shift in weather patterns but also the onset of the more stable, dry period. Although June and July see a slight dip in sunshine hours, averaging around 295 to 305 hours, the overall trend emphasizes a pronounced abundance of sunlight during the final months of the year, enhancing the area's stunning landscapes and contributing to its verdant ecosystems.
The UV Index in Sava, Madagascar, reveals strikingly high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, warranting caution for outdoor activities. From January to April, the index consistently remains in the extreme category, peaking at 17 in both January and February, indicating an urgent need for protective measures, as skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Even as the months progress into May, the Index remains elevated at 11, marking a significant health risk for sun exposure.
As the year transitions into mid-year months, the UV Index dips slightly but remains notably high, categorizing June and July with a very high index of 9 and 10, allowing for slightly longer safe exposure of approximately 15 minutes before burning occurs. The trend shifts somewhat in August, returning to the extreme category at 12, and stability is found in the fall months of September through November, with values around 14. December closes the year with a 15 on the UV Index, reinforcing that year-round sun safety is essential in Sava, as the potential for UV-related health effects persists throughout most of the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Sava, Madagascar, daylight duration showcases a remarkable stability throughout the year, with most months offering approximately 12 hours of sunlight. From January to March, the region enjoys this consistent amount of daylight, supporting its vibrant ecosystems and agricultural activities. As the year transitions into April, however, daylight slightly diminishes to 11 hours, a trend that continues through the subsequent months of May, June, July, and August. This reduction does not significantly impact the overall climate but signals the onset of the cooler, drier season.
As September arrives, daylight duration begins to revert to the 12-hour mark, maintaining this level through October and November. December also features 12 hours of daylight, concluding the year with a return to light. This cyclical pattern reflects the equatorial characteristics of Sava, where daylight hours remain relatively constant, enabling the region to maintain its lush tropical environment throughout the seasonal shifts. The consistent daylight duration provides essential conditions for flourishing plant and animal life, further reinforcing Sava's ecological richness.
The climate in Ambodivoara, Madagascar is characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) in the cooler months to 26°C (79°F) during warmer months, peaking in February and March. Precipitation is heaviest in March with 442 mm (17.4 in), and the dry season occurs from May to August, with the least rainfall in August at just 45 mm (1.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in October, which records up to 357 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Ambodivoara climate.
Ampahana, Madagascar experiences a warm, tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in August to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in February. Rainfall peaks in March with 378 mm (14.9 in), while the dry season from June to September sees significantly lower rainfall, reaching as low as 63 mm (2.5 in) in September. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in October with 359 hours of sunlight, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more information, visit Ampahana climate.
The climate in Andapa, Madagascar is characterized by a tropical wet and dry pattern, with warm temperatures year-round. January and February see maximums around 32°C (90°F), while the cooler months from June to August experience temperatures as low as 9°C (49°F). Rainfall peaks in March with 471 mm (18.6 in), tapering off in the dry months of August and September to around 101 mm (4.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in October and December, with over 345 hours of sun during these months. For detailed climate data, visit Andapa climate.
Antalaha, Madagascar experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The average monthly temperatures range from 22°C (71°F) in July and August to a peak of 26°C (79°F) in January, with December often reaching highs of 34°C (93°F). Rainfall is heaviest from January to March, peaking in March with 413 mm (16.2 in), while drier months occur from June to September. Sunshine hours are abundant, with October boasting the highest at 359 hours. For more detailed information, visit Antalaha climate.
Sambava, Madagascar, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in August to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in February. The rainy season peaks in March with an impressive 443 mm (17.5 in) of precipitation, while the drier months of August and October receive only 105 mm (4.1 in) and 81 mm (3.2 in) respectively. Despite the heavy rainfall, Sambava enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in October, when it boasts up to 361 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Sambava climate.
In conclusion, Sava, Madagascar, exhibits a distinct climate characterized by high temperatures, substantial rainfall, abundant sunlight, and elevated UV levels throughout the year. The region's tropical rainforest climate fosters a diverse ecosystem, supported by a pronounced seasonal rhythm in both precipitation and daylight duration. Notably, the extreme UV index during the wet season mandates protective measures for residents and visitors alike, while the stable daylight hours provide an ideal environment for agricultural and ecological activities. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for preserving the region's biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices that harmonize human activity with the natural world.