Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sofala, Mozambique, exhibits a tropical savanna climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. This region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with minimum values dipping to 10°C (50°F) in July and peaking at a scorching 43°C (110°F) in October. The annual average temperature hovers around 25°C (77°F), reflecting the warm climatic conditions typical of this part of East Africa. These distinctive temperature patterns not only influence local ecosystems but also have significant implications for agriculture and daily life in Sofala.
Sofala, Mozambique, experiences distinct seasonal temperature trends characterized by warm to hot conditions throughout the year. The region begins each year with January and February presenting warm minimums around 20°C (68°F) and maximums approaching 38°C (100°F), gradually transitioning into slightly cooler temperatures in March and April. By May, the onset of the cooler season is evident, with minimums dropping to 13°C (56°F) and maximums capping at 33°C (93°F). The months of June and July mark the coolest period, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of 10°C (50°F) in July, while average temperatures hover around 20°C (69°F). As temperatures gradually rise through August and September, Sofala faces a notable spike in heat during October, peaking at a scorching 43°C (110°F). The year then closes with November and December, where temperatures begin to stabilize, maintaining warm averages of around 27°C (80°F) and maximums close to 42°C (108°F). Overall, Sofala's climate showcases a pronounced transition between wet and dry seasons, with significant temperature fluctuations that profoundly affect the local environment.
Beira experiences a minimum temperature of 11°C (52°F) in August, and can reach a scorching maximum of 43°C (110°F) in October monthly temperatures in Beira. Similarly, Dondo records a slightly cooler minimum of 10°C (50°F) in July, but also peaks at 43°C (110°F) in October monthly temperatures in Dondo.
Sofala, Mozambique, experiences a markedly seasonal pattern of precipitation, heavily concentrated in the first quarter of the year. January and February are the wettest months, with average rainfall reaching 201 mm (7.9 in) and 209 mm (8.2 in), respectively, contributing to prolonged rainy conditions over 19 days. As the rainy season progresses into March, precipitation begins to taper off to 171 mm (6.7 in) over 19 days, followed by a significant drop in April to 52 mm (2.1 in), reflecting the transition toward the drier months. The rainfall decreases considerably from May to August, with these months receiving minimal precipitation, ranging from 13 mm (0.5 in) in August to 25 mm (1.0 in) for the trio of months preceding it.
As the year moves into the second half, Sofala's precipitation dynamics begin to shift again, albeit much less intensely. October sees a slight increase in rainfall to 39 mm (1.5 in), occurring over 9 days, while November marks another uptick to 72 mm (2.8 in), with rainfall distributed over 10 days. December mirrors January with 204 mm (8.0 in) of rainfall falling over 15 days, thus re-establishing the wet season. This cyclical pattern highlights the importance of rainfall in shaping the region's agricultural landscape and ecological balance, underlining the dependency of local communities on these seasonal shifts.
In Sofala, Mozambique, sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with the peak months occurring during the Southern Hemisphere's summer. Starting from January, the region experiences approximately 286 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing each month until October, where it reaches an impressive 351 hours. The months of March and April are particularly notable, as they differ only slightly, with 327 hours and 326 hours of sunshine, symbolizing a consistent pattern of bright days that carry into the early winter months of May and June, which also maintain high totals of 324 hours and 303 hours respectively. This gradual rise underscores the region’s warmth and vibrant agricultural productivity during these sunnier periods.
Conversely, the winter months – particularly June and July – reflect a decline in sunshine hours, albeit to a lesser extent compared to the stark contrasts one might expect. In fact, July boasts 312 hours of sunshine, illustrating that while temperatures may cool, the days remain relatively bright. As the year progresses into late spring and early summer, sunshine hours peak in December with 354 hours, creating optimal conditions for various crops and contributing to the thriving ecosystems. Overall, the consistent increase in daylight hours from winter to summer not only enhances the local climate but also serves as a critical driver for the region’s agricultural activities and overall quality of life.
In Sofala, Mozambique, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal variability, with peak levels observed during the hotter months of January to April. Each of these months experiences an extreme UV Index, reaching a staggering 16 in January and gradually decreasing to 12 by April, although the burn time remains consistently short at just 10 minutes. This extreme UV radiation is critical for residents and visitors to consider, as it underscores the need for sun protection measures during these months to mitigate the risk of skin damage. As Cumulatively, the summer months show not only higher UV levels but also a steady call for vigilance against the sun.
As the seasons transition toward the cooler winter months, the UV Index shows a notable decline. From May onwards, the index drops to 9, classified as very high, before further decreasing to 7 in June and July, categorized as high. This reduction in UV exposure allows for longer safe exposure times of 25 minutes in June and July. However, as spring approaches in August, the UV Index climbs back to 9, signaling a return to more intense sunlight. By November and December, the index rises again to 14, indicating the urgency for protective measures even as the year concludes. Overall, the fluctuating UV Index in Sofala emphasizes the importance of adapting sun safety practices according to seasonal changes to ensure health and well-being throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Sofala, Mozambique, daylight duration exhibits a consistent seasonal pattern influenced by the region's subtropical climate. The year begins with ample daylight in January, offering approximately 13 hours of sunlight, which gradually decreases to around 11 hours in April and May. This reduction coincides with the transition from the warm, summer months to the cooler winter season, where June experiences the least amount of daylight at 10 hours. Despite the decrease, July marks a slight uptick to 11 hours again, illustrating the gradual return of longer days as the seasons shift.
As the year progresses into spring and summer, daylight duration begins to increase once more, reaching 12 hours in October and climbing back to 13 hours by November and December. This resurgence is indicative of the longer days typical of the late spring and early summer months, providing opportunities for extended agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits. Overall, the cyclical nature of daylight hours in Sofala not only influences daily life but also plays a vital role in the region's ecology and agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of sunlight for growth and sustainable living.
Beira, Mozambique experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The hottest months are January and February, with maximums reaching up to 37°C (99°F) and considerable precipitation, peaking at 211 mm (8.3 in) in February. Cooler and drier conditions prevail from May to August, where temperatures drop to a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and rainfall is minimal. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in the latter half of the year, with October boasting the highest hours at 351. For more detailed information, visit Beira climate.
Dondo, Mozambique experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The hottest months are October and November, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 43°C (110°F). Rainfall is most abundant from January to March, peaking at about 208 mm (8.2 in) in February, while the dry months are from May to August. Sunshine is generous, averaging over 300 hours per month, especially in October, which boasts 351 hours. For more detailed information, visit Dondo climate.
In conclusion, the climatic patterns of Sofala, Mozambique, present a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that significantly shape the region's environment and lifestyle. The distinct wet and dry seasons drive agricultural practices, while the substantial sunshine and daylight invite both productivity and a need for vigilant sun protection. With extreme UV Index readings during the hottest months, it becomes imperative for residents and visitors to employ effective measures to safeguard against UV exposure. The seasonal variations observed not only influence ecological balance but also underscore the need for adaptability in daily activities and health practices. Understanding these climatic nuances is crucial for fostering resilience within Sofala's vibrant communities and enhancing sustainable development in the face of changing environmental conditions.