Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ohangwena, Namibia, experiences a semi-arid climate classified as BSh under the Köppen-Geiger system. The region showcases a remarkable temperature range, with minimum values dipping to 5°C (41°F) in May, while average temperatures hover around a comfortable 24°C (76°F) throughout the year. Notably, the hottest month occurs in October, where temperatures can escalate to an impressive 40°C (105°F). This temperature variability significantly impacts the local environment and agricultural practices, highlighting the importance of understanding climate dynamics in this region.
In Ohangwena, Namibia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The warmest months are from October to December, where maximum temperatures consistently reach up to 40°C (104°F), alongside high averages around 28°C (83°F). As the year progresses into the cooler months, May to August witnesses a notable drop in temperatures, with minimums plummeting to 5°C (41°F) in May and averages declining to 19°C (66°F) during June and July. Transitional months like September and November bring a gradual increase in warmth again, with temperatures rebounding to averages of 27°C (81°F) and maxima around 38°C (101°F). This cyclical nature of temperature marks Ohangwena as a region defined by its intense heat variations, facilitating a unique climate experience.
In Eenhana, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) in May to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in October, while Oshikango experiences slightly higher minimum temperatures of 6°C (43°F) in May, with the same maximum of 40°C (105°F) in October. For more detailed information, you can view the monthly temperatures in Eenhana here and the monthly temperatures in Oshikango here.
Ohangwena, Namibia, showcases a marked seasonal pattern in precipitation, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the peak summer months from January to March. January stands out as the wettest month, receiving approximately 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain over an average of 14 days, followed closely by February and March, which each receive 135 mm (5.3 in) of rainfall across 14 and 16 days, respectively. This significant rainfall is crucial for the region's agriculture and ecosystem, facilitating growth and sustenance during the hotter months.
Conversely, the dry season stretches from May through September, during which the area experiences virtually no rainfall, with each month recording 0 mm of precipitation. The gradual reintroduction of rain begins in October with a mere 14 mm (0.5 in), followed by an increase in November's 31 mm (1.2 in). December brings a resurgence of precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in), marking the return of the wet season. This distinct seasonal variability in rainfall underlines the climatic challenges faced by the region, influencing both natural habitats and human activities.
Ohangwena, Namibia, basks in abundant sunshine, with a clear seasonal trend characterized by a steady increase in sun exposure from the cooler winter months to the hotter summer. Starting from January, when the region recorded 285 hours of sunshine, there is a gradual ascension through the months, peaking in October with an impressive 365 hours. This progressive increase highlights the sun's strength as summer approaches, with each month delivering more light and warmth, thereby significantly influencing local climate patterns and agricultural cycles.
Notably, the period from August to October is particularly striking, as it experiences some of the highest sunshine durations, reaching 339 hours in August and maintaining this intensity through November with 359 hours. These months not only herald a peak in sunlight but also coincide with the dry season, where reduced cloud cover enables nearly uninterrupted sun exposure. In contrast, the beginning of the year showcases slightly lower sunshine hours, with January and February averaging around 285 to 312 hours. This remarkable consistency in high sunshine hours across the latter half of the year supports the region’s agricultural viability, making Ohangwena an optimal area for farming during the sunlit months.
The UV Index in Ohangwena, Namibia, exhibits significant seasonal variations, reflecting the region's intense solar exposure. During the peak summer months of January through March, the UV index consistently reaches extreme levels of 17 and 16, necessitating vigilant sun protection due to a critical burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into April, the UV index slightly decreases to 13, still classified as extreme, before transitioning to very high levels in May (10) and June (8), where the burn time increases to 15 minutes. This data underscores the necessity for residents and visitors to take precautions against UV exposure, particularly during the hotter months.
As the dry season continues into the latter part of the year, the UV Index remains notably high. By August, it again peaks to 11, with the burn time reducing back to 10 minutes. The UV index stays within the extreme category through September (13) and October (14), before peaking once more in November (15) and settling at 16 in December. Throughout the year, the consistently high UV levels signal the importance of protecting skin from harmful solar radiation, especially in the hotter months when outdoor activities are prevalent. This vigilance is essential not only for health but also for enjoying the outdoor landscapes that Ohangwena has to offer.
UV Risk Categories
In Ohangwena, Namibia, daylight duration follows a discernible pattern throughout the year, influenced by the region's tropical climate. The year begins with January averaging 13 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits. As the calendar shifts into February and March, daylight gradually decreases to 12 hours, but this reduction is minimal, ensuring that the warm summer months remain bright and inviting. From April through September, daylight stabilizes around 11 hours, facilitating a comfortable balance of light and warmth, which is especially beneficial for farming and community events.
By October, daylight begins to increase again, returning to 12 hours and continuing this trend into November. The year wraps up in December with another peak at 13 hours of daylight, allowing residents to enjoy the long, sunlit days typical of the summer season. This cyclic pattern offers a predictable rhythm to daily life in Ohangwena, supporting both agricultural cycles and social activities while enhancing the sense of community and engagement with the natural environment.
Eenhana, Namibia, experiences a warm semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January through March sees high temperatures peaking around 39°C (102°F) with significant rainfall, particularly in January (133 mm) and February (142 mm). The dry season extends from May to September, where temperatures remain mild, dropping to as low as 5°C (41°F) at night, and precipitation is minimal. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with October boasting the highest hours at 365. For more detailed information, visit Eenhana climate.
Oshikango, Namibia experiences a hot climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. The hottest months are January through March, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C (102°F), while the coolest months are May and July, where temperatures can drop to 6°C (43°F). Most precipitation occurs between January and March, totaling around 135 mm (5.3 in), while the dry season spans from May to September. Sunshine hours are abundant, with October seeing the most at 365 hours, contributing to the warm overall climate. For more details, check the Oshikango climate.
In conclusion, Ohangwena, Namibia, exemplifies a unique climate characterized by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences intense heat during the summer months, coupled with significant rainfall that supports agricultural productivity. High sunshine duration and elevated UV Index throughout the year highlight the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike. Furthermore, the consistent daylight hours create a rhythm that fosters community activities and agricultural development. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for effective planning and adaptation strategies, ensuring that the vibrant life and natural beauty of Ohangwena continue to thrive in the face of climate variability.