Kavango West Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Kavango West, Namibia, experiences a BSh climate classification, characterized by a distinct semi-arid environment. The region's temperature varies significantly throughout the year, with a minimum recorded at 4°C (39°F) in July, providing a stark contrast to the sweltering maximum of 40°C (105°F) reached in October. The annual average temperature of 23°C (74°F) underlines the warmth of this area, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies in both agricultural practices and water resource management to cope with its variable climate.

Kavango West temperature by month

Kavango West, Namibia, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, reflecting the region's semi-arid climate. The year begins with warmer temperatures in January and February, where nights are mild and daytime highs peak at around 37°C (98°F). As the seasons transition into April and May, nights grow cooler, with temperatures dipping as low as 4°C (40°F) in May, while averages remain comfortable around 21°C (69°F). The coldest months, June and July, witness consistently low minimum temperatures of 4°C (39°F) alongside mild daytime highs, creating a brief winter chill. However, as August arrives, temperatures rebound, culminating in intense heat during the latter part of the year, with October and November seeing maximums soar to 40°C (105°F) and warm averages near 28°C (83°F). This rhythmic fluctuation between cool winters and hot summers characterizes the climatic experience of Kavango West, impacting both the natural ecosystem and human activity across the region.

Monthly Temperatures in Kavango West, Namibia

The chart illustrates Kavango West's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec767574736964637179828280
Data source: Kavango West temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Nkurenkuru experiences a significant temperature range, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) in July and a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in October, reflecting the region's extreme climate variability. For more detailed insights, you can check the monthly temperatures in Nkurenkuru.

Precipitation Patterns in Kavango West

Kavango West, Namibia, experiences a pronounced wet season from January to March, characterized by significant precipitation levels. January marks the start of this rainfall pattern with an impressive 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain over approximately 17 days, followed closely by February, which sees the highest monthly total of 209 mm (8.2 in) over 18 days. March continues this trend with 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain falling over 17 days, contributing to a lush environment during these months. The heavy rainfall supports agricultural activities, nourishing the soil and enhancing crop yields during this vital growing period.

Contrast emerges in the following months, with Kavango West transitioning into a prolonged dry season from April to August. Precipitation drops drastically, reaching only 35 mm (1.4 in) in April and tapering off to negligible amounts in the following months, with no recorded rainfall from May to August. Minor precipitation returns in September with just 1 mm (0.0 in), while October and November see slight increases with 12 mm (0.5 in) and 35 mm (1.4 in) respectively. December brings a resurgence of rainfall with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 16 days, rounding out the year with a notable wet period, setting the stage for the subsequent rainy season.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Kavango West, Namibia

The average monthly precipitation in Kavango West, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec17620913035000011235104
Data source: Kavango West precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Kavango West

Kavango West, Namibia, enjoys a notably sunny climate, particularly in the transition from winter to summer. The year begins with January and February showcasing 274 and 293 hours of sunshine, respectively. As the season progresses into March and April, sunshine hours increase dramatically, reaching 327 and 328 hours. This upward trend continues into May, peaking with 335 hours of bright sunshine, which significantly contributes to the region's warmth and supports its agricultural activities. Consistent sunshine characterizes the mid-year months, with only slight dips, maintaining an impressive level of sunlight as June and July report 322 and 332 hours, respectively.

The latter half of the year sees an even more pronounced increase, with October and December both recording a peak of 361 hours of sunshine. November maintains a high average of 350 hours, further solidifying this period as one of the sunniest of the year. This remarkable consistency of bright days not only enhances the region's natural beauty but also provides vital solar energy, essential for both the local ecosystem and community livelihoods. As a whole, Kavango West's sunshine duration illustrates a beneficial climatic pattern, making it an attractive destination for those seeking warm and sunny conditions year-round.

Monthly Sunshine in Kavango West, Namibia

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Kavango West receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec274h293h327h328h335h322h332h335h335h361h350h361h
Data source: Kavango West sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Kavango West UV Index Trends

Kavango West, Namibia, experiences a consistently high UV Index throughout the year, underscoring the need for sun protection measures. The first half of the year is marked by extreme UV levels, particularly in January and February, where the Index peaks at an alarming 17, accompanied by a burn time of just 10 minutes. This extreme exposure continues into March and April, with values of 15 and 13, respectively, emphasizing the hazardous conditions that can lead to skin damage if adequate protection is not utilized. As the region transitions into May and June, the UV Index reduces slightly, yet remains at very high levels of 10 and 8, necessitating caution during outdoor activities.

In the second half of the year, UV levels exhibit slight fluctuations but remain impactful. August sees a return to a UV Index of 10, while September and October revert to extreme levels of 12, showcasing the region's persistent exposure to harmful rays. November and December maintain a UV Index of 15, reinforcing the critical nature of sun safety in Kavango West. With burn times remaining around 10 to 15 minutes throughout much of the year, residents and visitors alike are urged to take proactive measures—such as using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing—to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure in this sun-drenched locale.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kavango West, Namibia

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kavango West. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1717151310881012121515
Data source: Kavango West UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Kavango West

Kavango West, Namibia, experiences a notable variation in daylight duration throughout the year, with a general trend of longer days during the summer months and shorter days in winter. January kicks off the year with a full 13 hours of daylight, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities. As February and March roll in, daylight remains stable at about 12 hours, allowing residents to enjoy the warm summer conditions before the days gradually begin to shorten in April and May, both recording 11 hours of sunshine. This consistent daylight duration during the early winter months creates a comfortable environment, though the reduction in hours signals a seasonal shift.

As Kavango West progresses into the winter months from June to August, daylight remains at a steady 11 hours, fostering a predictable rhythm for daily life. The return of longer days begins with October and November, where daylight extends to 12 hours once again, heralding the approach of summer. December reestablishes the maximum of 13 hours of daylight, culminating the year on a bright note. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only influences the local lifestyle but also supports agricultural practices, ensuring adequate sunlight for crops during the growing season.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Kavango West, Namibia

This chart shows the total daylight hours Kavango West receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec782h759h730h700h676h664h670h691h719h749h775h789h
Data source: Kavango West daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Kavango West's Popular Destinations

Nkurenkuru, Namibia, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Summer months, from January to March, see average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 23°C, with significant rainfall peaking in February at 209 mm. The dry season lasts from May to August, where temperatures can drop to as low as 4°C but remain pleasantly warm during the day. Sunshine is abundant year-round, with October and December boasting the highest sunshine hours of up to 361 hours. For more details, visit Nkurenkuru climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kavango West, Namibia, embodies a distinctive climate characterized by its seasonal temperature variations, abundant sunshine, high UV Index, and cyclical daylight duration. The region's semi-arid environment offers a warm and sunny backdrop, particularly during the wet months, which facilitates agricultural productivity and outdoor activities. However, the extreme UV radiation and the relatively short burn times in the summer months necessitate careful sun protection measures for residents and visitors alike. Overall, understanding these climatic factors is essential for effectively navigating life in Kavango West, enabling the community to harness its natural resources while promoting health and safety in a vibrant and lively environment.

Discover the Climate of Kavango West's Places

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