Last updated: January 18, 2025
Vakinankaratra, Madagascar, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by its classification under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfb and Cwb. The region experiences a notable temperature range, with minimum temperatures plunging to 2°C (35°F) in August, while averages hover around 17°C (63°F). The warmth peaks dramatically in October, reaching a maximum of 33°C (91°F), highlighting the region’s seasonal variability. This climatic variability supports a rich biodiversity, making Vakinankaratra an intriguing area for both ecological studies and climate observations.
Vakinankaratra, Madagascar, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year. The warmest months are characterized by steady averages of around 19°C (67°F) in January through March, with maximum temperatures consistently reaching 30°C (86°F). As the region transitions into the cooler months of May and June, minimum temperatures dip dramatically to as low as 2°C (35°F), contributing to a sharp decline in average temperatures, which fall to around 12-15°C (54-60°F). Late winter and early spring record slightly higher figures, gradually rising again in October, where temperatures begin to warm, with an increase in maximum values peaking at 33°C (91°F). This seasonal fluctuation notably influences the local climate, ecology, and overall biodiversity.
Antsirabe experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) in July to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) in November. For a detailed look at the monthly temperatures, you can visit monthly temperatures in Antsirabe.
Vakinankaratra, Madagascar experiences a pronounced wet season, particularly between January and March when precipitation peaks. January sees an impressive 298 mm (11.7 in) of rainfall over an average of 18 days, followed closely by February with 329 mm (13.0 in) across 21 days. As the region transitions from summer to autumn, March continues to receive significant rainfall at 235 mm (9.3 in) over 20 rainy days, contributing to this season's prominence in the local climate. The abundant rain during these months supports lush vegetation and sustains the area's diverse ecosystems.
In sharp contrast, the months from May to August are characterized by a marked reduction in precipitation, with minimal rainfall recorded. May receives just 14 mm (0.6 in) over a mere 3 days, followed by June with 25 mm (1.0 in) across 4 days, and July and August experiencing the driest conditions, with just 10 mm (0.4 in) and 8 mm (0.3 in) respectively. The rainy season resumes in October, albeit modestly, with 49 mm (1.9 in) of rainfall, while November sees a resurgence with 155 mm (6.1 in), illustrating a gradual return to wetter conditions. This precipitation pattern significantly influences agricultural activities and water availability in the region throughout the year.
Vakinankaratra, Madagascar experiences a notable trend in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a general increase as the region transitions from winter to summer. Beginning in January, the area receives 262 hours of sunshine, which steadily rises, peaking in March at 325 hours. As temperatures warm, April and May maintain high sunshine levels of 311 hours and 318 hours, respectively. This gradual increase demonstrates the correlation between sunshine and the warmer months, offering optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agriculture during this period.
The peak of sunshine is recorded in October, with an impressive 357 hours, followed closely by November at 347 hours and December at 352 hours. These late spring and summer months provide an abundance of sunlight, essential for crop growth and energy generation. In contrast, the winter months, particularly January, reflect a decrease in sunshine hours, culminating in the lowest values of the year. Overall, the sunshine duration in Vakinankaratra not only supports the region's diverse ecosystems but also significantly influences lifestyle and agricultural practices, making it a crucial factor in understanding the area's climate dynamics.
The UV Index in Vakinankaratra, Madagascar, reflects significant variation throughout the year, with particularly high levels identified during the summer months. From January to March, the region experiences extreme UV Index values, reaching 18 in January, 17 in February, and 16 in March. These conditions demand caution, as the recommended burn time is only 10 minutes during this period, emphasizing the necessity for protective measures against intense sunlight exposure. The extreme UV levels underscore the importance of sun safety practices, particularly for outdoor activities.
As the region transitions into the late autumn and winter months, the UV Index begins to decline but remains notably high. By May, the Index drops to 10, categorized as very high, and this trend of elevated UV persists through June and July with values of 8 and 9, respectively. In August, the UV Index rebounds to 11, signaling a return to extreme exposure conditions, and it remains consistent at 13 through September and October. Notably, November shows an increase to 15, followed by 16 in December, all maintaining the extreme exposure category. This seasonal variation in UV exposure highlights the need for ongoing vigilance, making it crucial for residents and visitors to adopt effective sun protection strategies throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Vakinankaratra, Madagascar, daylight duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern reflecting the region's transition from summer to winter. January begins with ample daylight lasting 13 hours, providing abundant time for outdoor activities and fostering a vibrant ecosystem. However, as the year progresses, February and March see a slight decrease to 12 hours of daylight, followed by a further reduction as April and May settle at 11 hours. This gradual decline continues into the winter months of June, where daylight reaches its lowest point at 10 hours, marking a significant shift in the light availability.
As the seasons change once more, daylight duration begins to increase again from July onwards, returning to 11 hours and continuing this trend through August and September. In October, daylight increases back to 12 hours, and by November and December, it reaches 13 hours once again. This cyclical variation in daylight not only influences daily activities and agriculture in the region but also plays a significant role in the ecological rhythms, contributing to the overall climate dynamics of Vakinankaratra.
Antsirabe, Madagascar features a temperate climate characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year. January sees average highs of 28°C (82°F) and significant rainfall of 319 mm, while July experiences cooler conditions with average highs of 22°C (73°F) and minimal precipitation at 8 mm. The region enjoys plenty of sunshine, peaking in October with 362 hours. Overall, the climate is marked by a distinct wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. For more details, visit Antsirabe climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Vakinankaratra, Madagascar, is marked by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a warm, wet summer characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall, which supports its rich biodiversity and agricultural practices. As the seasons shift, temperatures vary widely, particularly during the colder months when light and warmth are less abundant. Additionally, the consistently high UV Index during many months underscores the necessity for sun safety measures. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for local communities and visitors alike, as they navigate outdoor activities, agricultural timelines, and overall lifestyle in this unique Malagasy landscape.