Last updated: January 18, 2025
Oshana, Namibia, exhibits a BSh climate classification, indicative of a hot semi-arid environment. This region experiences significant temperature variations, with a chilly minimum of 6°C (43°F) recorded in July, while average temperatures hover around a warm 24°C (76°F). The peak heat occurs in October, where temperatures can soar to a sweltering 39°C (103°F). These climatic conditions underscore the regional contrasts and highlight Oshana's unique weather patterns, influencing both the local ecosystem and human activities.
Oshana, Namibia, experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year. The warmer months from January to March are characterized by mild minimum temperatures ranging from 15°C to 16°C (59°F to 62°F) and peak highs consistently reaching 38°C (100°F to 101°F), creating a hot summer climate. As the region transitions into the cooler months of April and May, temperatures begin to drop slightly, with averages of 24°C (76°F) and 22°C (73°F), while nighttime lows can fall to 6°C (44°F). The coldest months, June and July, see minimums nearing 6°C (43°F) and average highs of 19°C (67°F). A gradual warming trend resumes in August through October, as temperatures rise again, peaking in October with maximums of 39°C (103°F). This cyclical pattern culminates in a return to warmer conditions by late November and December, embracing mildly warm averages and nighttime minimums that remain mild.
In the region of Oshana, Ongwediva experiences a July minimum of 7°C (44°F) and peaks at 39°C (103°F) in October, while Ondangwa records a slightly lower minimum of 6°C (43°F) in July and rises to 39°C (103°F) in November. Meanwhile, Oshakati shares the same July low of 7°C (44°F) and reaches 39°C (103°F) in October. For more detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Ongwediva, monthly temperatures in Ondangwa, and monthly temperatures in Oshakati.
Oshana, Namibia, exhibits a pronounced wet season primarily from January through March, during which it receives the bulk of its annual precipitation. January starts strong with 109 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall over about 11 days, followed by a peak in March with 133 mm (5.2 in) across 15 days. February also contributes significantly with 128 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days. This period is crucial for local agriculture and water resources, as the rains replenish the soil and support vegetation growth.
Following this peak, the region enters a prolonged dry spell from May to September, where zero rainfall is recorded for most months, leading to a complete halt in precipitation. Occasional light rainfall reappears in October and November, yielding 9 mm (0.4 in) and 20 mm (0.8 in), respectively, though these amounts are significantly lower than those experienced earlier in the year. December sees a revival with 90 mm (3.6 in) of rain over 9 days, marking a return to wetter conditions, though it cannot compare to the intense rainfall of the preceding months.
Oshana, Namibia, enjoys a brilliant showcase of sunshine throughout the year, with marked seasonal trends that reflect its geographical climate. The sunniest months typically occur in the latter half of the year, particularly in October, where an impressive 366 hours of sunshine shine down, closely followed by November (362 hours) and December (375 hours). This peak in luminosity aligns with the transition from the wet season, showcasing not only long daylight hours but also vibrant weather conditions conducive to outdoor activities and agriculture.
Conversely, the duration of sunshine is notably less pronounced in the early months of the year, with January (288 hours) and February (318 hours) showing the least amount of sunlight compared to the subsequent months. Despite a significant increase in sunshine hours as the year progresses, it is interesting to note that sunshine is relatively consistent, with minor fluctuations month to month. However, the steady rise from June (320 hours) through to August (339 hours) illustrates a notable transition as the region shifts towards its warmest and sunniest season. This seasonal pattern of abundant sunshine not only enhances the overall climate appeal of Oshana but also fosters agricultural productivity.
Oshana, Namibia, experiences notably high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation throughout the year, with extreme UV Index readings dominating the first half of the calendar. In January and February, the UV Index peaks at 17, categorized as extreme, necessitating a burn time of merely 10 minutes for unprotected skin. Even with a slight decrease in March to 16, the exposure remains critical, emphasizing the need for protective measures during these months. Notably, April shows a reduction to 13, yet it still falls within the extreme exposure category, indicating consistent high UV levels that demand attention.
As the year progresses into the late months, a slight decline in the UV Index is observed, accompanied by a shift in exposure categories. From May through July, the UV Index drops to 10 and 9, indicating very high levels of UV radiation, thus extending the recommended burn time to 15 minutes. However, as August transitions back to extreme levels with an Index of 11, the UV risk increases again, peaking in the following months of October (14) and November (15), with consistent extreme ratings returning. December wraps up the year with a UV Index of 16, highlighting that throughout the year, residents and visitors need to consistently prioritize sun safety practices to mitigate the risks associated with intense UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Oshana, Namibia, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the subtropical climate's influence on the length of day throughout the year. Beginning in January, residents enjoy a generous 13 hours of daylight, which gradually decreases to 12 hours in both February and March. As the region transitions into the cooler season from April to September, daylight duration stabilizes at 11 hours, creating a period marked by shorter days and ample dark hours, which can influence daily routines and activities.
The cycle then begins to shift again, with daylight extending back to 12 hours in October and November, indicating the approach of warmer months as spring sets in. By December, Oshana experiences another peak in daylight with 13 hours, mirroring the conditions observed at the beginning of the year. This oscillation in daylight hours provides a unique rhythm to life in Oshana, enhancing the natural beauty and allowing for varied outdoor activities throughout the seasons while also signaling the gradual changes in climate and temperature.
Ondangwa, Namibia experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot temperatures and a marked wet season. January through March sees high temperatures up to 38°C (100°F), with substantial rainfall peaking at 132 mm (5.2 in) in February. A dry season follows, with no rainfall from May to August and cooler averages around 19°C (66°F) in July. As temperatures rise again in late spring, October and November record highs of 39°C (103°F), while precipitation increases slightly in November and December. For more insights, visit Ondangwa climate.
Ongwediva, Namibia, experiences a hot semi-arid climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) in July to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in October and November. January through March are the wettest months, with precipitation peaking at 137 mm (5.4 in) in March, while June to September remains dry with no rainfall recorded. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, averaging about 320 to 374 hours monthly. The combination of heat and sunshine makes Ongwediva a unique climate destination, ensuring vibrant weather patterns year-round. For more details, check the Ongwediva climate.
Oshakati, Namibia, experiences a warm, semi-arid climate with significant seasonal variations. The hottest months are January to March, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 38°C (101°F). Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, particularly from January to March, while the remainder of the year tends to be dry with minimal precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in October with 365 hours of sunlight. For detailed climate information, visit Oshakati climate.
In conclusion, Oshana, Namibia, presents a dynamic interplay of climate elements, characterized by extreme temperatures, substantial sunshine, high UV radiation, and varying daylight durations across the year. The pronounced wet and dry seasons significantly influence local agricultural practices and water resources, while the intense sunlight and UV exposure necessitate vigilant sun safety measures. Understanding these climatic patterns not only highlights Oshana's unique environmental profile but also underscores the importance of adapting lifestyle and health strategies to cope with the region's diverse weather conditions, ultimately enhancing the well-being and resilience of its residents.