Last updated: January 18, 2025
Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, is characterized by a tropical savanna climate (Köppen-Geiger classification: Aw), which significantly influences its ecological and human activities. The region experiences a temperature range that varies from a cool minimum of 14°C (58°F) in July to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (97°F) in December. With an average temperature of 25°C (78°F), Cabo Delgado showcases a dynamic climate that underscores the importance of understanding its seasonal variations, particularly in the context of agriculture, biodiversity, and local livelihoods.
In Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The warmest months are from November to February, where minimums hover between 19°C (66°F) and 21°C (70°F), with maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F). In contrast, the cooler period spans from June to August, marked by minimum temperatures dropping to 14°C (58°F) and average temperatures around 23°C (74°F). As the dry season approaches, temperatures gradually increase again, peaking in December. Overall, the climate in Cabo Delgado transitions smoothly from warm to cooler periods, influenced by seasonal changes that are vital for agriculture and local ecosystems.
Montepuez experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in July to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in December monthly temperatures in Montepuez. In Mocimboa, the temperatures vary with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in July and a peak of 35°C (96°F) in January monthly temperatures in Mocimboa. Meanwhile, Pemba has slightly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 18°C (66°F) in August to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in April monthly temperatures in Pemba.
Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, experiences a pronounced seasonal precipitation pattern, heavily influenced by its tropical climate. The wet season typically spans from November to March, with January, February, and March receiving nearly identical rainfall totals of approximately 181 mm (7.1 in) each month. This period is characterized by frequent rainfall days, with January alone experiencing around 20 days of rain, indicating the intensity and duration of precipitation during these months. As the wet season concludes, there is a sharp decline in rainfall, with April seeing a reduction to 157 mm (6.2 in).
Transitioning into the dry season, precipitation drops significantly, with May recording just 32 mm (1.3 in) and subsequent months like June, July, and August receiving minimal amounts ranging between 9 mm (0.3 in) and 11 mm (0.4 in). This dry spell continues until early October, when rainfall begins to increase again, culminating in 164 mm (6.5 in) in December as the wet season reestablishes itself. The stark contrast between the wet and dry months not only delineates the annual climatic rhythm but also plays a crucial role in shaping local agriculture and water resource management in Cabo Delgado.
In Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with notable peaks during the southern hemisphere's summer months. The period from May to October witnesses a consistent increase in sunlight, with May reaching 336 hours. This trend continues to rise until October, when the region enjoys its highest sunshine total of 357 hours. During these months, the days are longer and clearer, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural productivity. This pattern highlights the importance of these sunny months for farming, tourism, and other sun-dependent industries.
Conversely, the transition into the wet season from November to April sees a slight dip in sunshine hours. While still robust, the total decreases from 353 hours in November to a low of 259 hours in January, reflecting the increased cloud cover and precipitation typical of this time. However, even in the wetter months, February and March stand out, with sunshine durations of 303 hours and 319 hours, respectively. This indicates that while the region remains influenced by rain, there are still significant windows of sunlight that can support various activities. Overall, Cabo Delgado’s sunshine patterns showcase a dynamic interplay between sunlight and seasonal weather, crucial for understanding its climate and local livelihoods.
Cabo Delgado experiences a high to extreme UV Index throughout the year, underscoring the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. The period from January to April consistently registers an extreme UV Index of 16, signifying a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin. This intensity continues into May, where the UV Index slightly drops to 11 but remains in the extreme category, reinforcing the need for caution during outdoor activities. Such elevated levels of UV radiation throughout these months necessitate the use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, particularly during midday hours.
As Cabo Delgado transitions into the cooler months, the UV Index remains notably high, although it begins to decrease slightly. From June to July, the index stabilizes at 10, classified as very high, which extends the burn time to 15 minutes. In late winter and early spring months of August to October, the index fluctuates between 12 and 13, retaining its extreme category, with a burn time of only 10 minutes during peak sunlight hours. The UV levels in Cabo Delgado highlight the region's exposure to solar radiation and emphasize the ongoing need for effective sun safety measures, particularly during these prominent sunshine months.
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In Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with variations primarily occurring around the equinoxes. From January to March, the region enjoys a consistent 12 hours of daylight each day, providing ample sunlight for agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits. This equatorial location means that the length of the day remains more uniform compared to regions farther from the equator, with minimal fluctuations affecting daily life and natural cycles.
As the year progresses into the cooler months, daylight duration decreases slightly to 11 hours from April to August. This pattern contributes to a more balanced light and dark cycle, although the difference is subtle. By September through December, Cabo Delgado reverts back to 12 hours of daylight, coinciding with the onset of the wet season. The consistent availability of daylight throughout the year not only supports diverse ecosystems but also enhances the daily routines of the local communities, making Cabo Delgado an environment well-adapted to its tropical conditions.
Mocimboa, Mozambique, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. January and December have the highest temperatures, averaging around 27°C (81°F) with maximums reaching up to 35°C (96°F). The rainy season peaks from January to April, with January receiving the most precipitation at 177 mm, while dryer months like June and July see only about 13 mm. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in the dry season, with October boasting the highest sunlight at 357 hours. For more details, visit Mocimboa climate.
Montepuez, Mozambique experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. January through March are the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) and significant rainfall, particularly in January with 174 mm (6.9 in). The dry season, from May to August, brings lower temperatures, peaking at about 29°C (84°F) in June and minimal precipitation. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, especially in October, which boasts 355 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Montepuez climate.
Pemba, Mozambique, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. From January to March, the average temperatures range from 27°C to 28°C (81°F to 82°F) with significant rainfall, peaking in March at 206 mm (8.1 in). The dry season spans from May to August, where temperatures drop slightly to an average of 24°C (75°F) and precipitation decreases dramatically. Interestingly, Pemba enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in October, which boasts 358 hours of sun. For detailed information, visit Pemba climate.
In conclusion, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, presents a fascinating interplay of climate elements, characterized by a pronounced tropical savanna climate, distinct seasonal changes in temperature, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight length. The region's warm, wet months promote agricultural growth while requiring careful sun safety measures during periods of extreme UV radiation. With consistent daylight hours facilitating daily activities, the climatic conditions in Cabo Delgado underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to these environmental patterns. As local communities navigate these dynamics, a comprehensive awareness of seasonal trends can significantly enhance both livelihood strategies and ecological sustainability in this vibrant region.