Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Otjozondjupa, Namibia, is characterized by its semi-arid (BSh) and arid (BWh) Köppen-Geiger classification. This region experiences a diverse temperature range, with minimum temperatures dipping to -2°C (29°F) in July, the coldest month, while soaring to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in November, the hottest month. On average, temperatures hover around 22°C (71°F), illustrating the stark seasonal contrasts that define this unique landscape. The interplay of these climatic conditions shapes not only the local ecology but also the livelihoods of its inhabitants.
In Otjozondjupa, Namibia, temperature patterns display distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The region experiences its hottest months from January to March, with average temperatures peaking at around 25°C (77°F) to 24°C (75°F) and maximum highs reaching 39°C (102°F) in January. As the year progresses into April and May, temperatures gradually decline, with average values dropping to 21°C (70°F) and 18°C (65°F), while nighttime lows can plummet to 1°C (35°F). The coldest period occurs between June and July, where minimum temperatures can fall as low as -2°C (29°F), accompanied by average temperatures of 15°C (60°F) and 16°C (60°F), signaling the peak of winter. As temperatures rise again in August, the region transitions back to warmer conditions with maximums reaching 34°C (94°F) by late summer. By the end of the year, November and December see a return to milder averages around 26°C (79°F), exhibiting the clear cyclical nature of Otjozondjupa's climate, shaped by both extremes and moderate seasonal shifts.
Grootfontein experiences a temperature range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) in July to a scorching 38°C (101°F) in October, making for hot conditions later in the year. In Okahandja, temperatures can drop to -1°C (31°F) in August before peaking at 38°C (100°F) in December. Similarly, Otjiwarongo records a minimum of 2°C (37°F) in May, with highs reaching 38°C (101°F) in November. For more details, you can check monthly temperatures in Grootfontein, monthly temperatures in Okahandja, and monthly temperatures in Otjiwarongo.
Otjozondjupa, Namibia, experiences a distinct wet and dry seasonal pattern, with the peak rainfall occurring during the summer months from January to March. In January, the region receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, which slightly increases to 142 mm (5.6 in) in February with 15 days of rain. March sees a decline to 100 mm (3.9 in), maintaining a consistent wet period characterized by cloudy skies and nourishing rains essential for the local ecosystem. As the wet season transitions to the dry months, April records a significant drop to 38 mm (1.5 in), and by May, precipitation halts completely.
The dry season in Otjozondjupa persists from May to September, where no rainfall is recorded, contributing to heightened aridity during this period. Light precipitation resumes in October with 15 mm (0.6 in) over 2 days, followed by an increase in November to 27 mm (1.1 in) across 6 days. December brings a revival of showers, yielding 76 mm (3.0 in) over 10 days, signaling the onset of the new rainy season. This annual cycle underscores the stark contrast between the lush, moisture-laden months and the prolonged dry spells that define Otjozondjupa's climate.
In Otjozondjupa, Namibia, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase as the year progresses. The early months of the year, from January to March, capture a significant rise in sunlight, with March reaching an impressive 340 hours. This period marks the transition into the warmer months, and the abundant sunshine supports both the local flora and agricultural activities. Following a minor dip in April to 330 hours, the hours of sunshine remain relatively consistent through the subsequent months, averaging around 332 hours until July, exemplifying the region's robust, daylight-rich climate.
The most notable peak in sunshine duration occurs in October, when Otjozondjupa basks in a remarkable 366 hours, closely followed by November with 365 hours. This exceptional sunlight not only enhances the vibrant landscapes but also solidifies October and November as the region’s sunniest months. December continues this trend with 377 hours, showcasing the prolonged dry season's impact on sunshine. In contrast, the colder months of May and June register slightly lower sunshine hours, averaging around 319 to 332 hours, indicating a mild reduction in daylight as the region prepares for the summer's return. Overall, the sunshine patterns in Otjozondjupa not only reflect the dry climate but also provide vital energy for the ecosystem throughout the year.
The UV Index in Otjozondjupa, Namibia, indicates a significant concern for skin safety throughout the year, with extreme levels commonly observed during the summer months. January and February feature an exceptionally high UV Index of 17, categorized as extreme, which requires minimal exposure of just 10 minutes to cause skin burn. Even as the weather begins to transition in March and April, the UV levels remain alarmingly high at 14 and 13, respectively, reinforcing the need for protective measures such as sunscreen and protective clothing during outdoor activities.
As the cooler months approach, the UV Index drops but remains notably elevated. From May to August, values range from 8 to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for slightly longer exposure times of 15 minutes before burn onset. However, the UV Index increases again in September through December, peaking at 16 in December. This trend showcases a seasonal pattern where extreme UV intensity is prevalent during the sunny months, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against sun exposure year-round for residents and visitors to enhance their skin health.
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In Otjozondjupa, Namibia, daylight duration follows a predictable seasonal pattern that reflects the region's subtropical climate. The year begins with extended daylight in January, boasting 13 hours of sunlight, allowing ample time for outdoor activities. As the months progress into February and March, the duration stabilizes at 12 hours, making this a period of great warmth and ample light. The daylight hours begin to gradually decline in April and May, at 11 hours each, as the cooler months approach, signaling a shift towards the mid-year winter.
As winter settles in from June to early July, daylight duration dips to 10 hours, marking the shortest days of the year. However, the trend soon reverses, with daylight returning to 11 hours from July through September, before once again increasing in October to 12 hours as the region moves towards summer. By November and December, Otjozondjupa enjoys 13 hours of daylight once more, emphasizing the cyclical nature of sunlight availability that supports both the rich biodiversity and the daily lives of its residents. This consistent pattern of daylight underscores the importance of seasonal changes in the local ecosystem and agricultural practices.
Grootfontein, Namibia experiences a warm climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. January and February are the wettest months, receiving 190 mm and 206 mm of rain, respectively, while May to August typically see no precipitation. Temperatures range from mild winter lows of 1°C (34°F) in July to summer highs peaking at 38°C (101°F) in October and November. With abundant sunshine, particularly in October with 364 hours, Grootfontein offers plenty of bright days year-round. For more details on the area's climate, visit Grootfontein climate.
Okahandja, Namibia experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January marks the warmest month with averages around 26°C (78°F) and considerable rainfall of 91 mm (3.6 in), while temperatures drop in the winter months of June and July, with lows reaching 1°C (33°F). Precipitation is scarce from May to September, creating a dry period where no rainfall is recorded. Throughout the year, sunshine is abundant, peaking in December with 387 hours. For more details, visit Okahandja climate.
Okakarara, Namibia experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. The hottest months are January and November, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C (102°F), while July is the coldest, with minimum temperatures dipping to -2°C (29°F). Rainfall is concentrated from January to March, peaking in February at 122 mm (4.8 in), followed by a dry period from May to August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in October and December, when it averages around 368 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Okakarara climate.
Otavi, Namibia experiences a semi-arid climate with warm temperatures year-round. January boasts high averages of 25°C (76°F) and significant rainfall of 163 mm, while the dry season spans from May to August, with temperatures cooling to around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is minimal during these months, barely exceeding 2 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in October with 366 hours. For more detailed information, visit Otavi climate.
Otjiwarongo, Namibia experiences a hot semi-arid climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January and February see the highest temperatures, with maxima around 36-38°C (98-101°F) and substantial rainfall, mainly during the wet season. As the year progresses, temperatures drop to their annual lows in June and July, ranging from 3°C (37°F) at night to around 29°C (85°F) during the day, with no rainfall. The area boasts significant sunshine throughout the year, peaking in October and November, with over 360 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed information, visit Otjiwarongo climate.
In conclusion, Otjozondjupa, Namibia, presents a dynamic climate characterized by notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration. The region’s semi-arid environment features extreme summer temperatures and significant rainfall primarily during the January to March wet season, which supports the local ecosystem. Coupled with high sunshine hours and elevated UV Index levels, residents and visitors must be mindful of sun exposure while enjoying the abundant daylight, particularly during the peak summer months. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential not only for the well-being of the community but also for effective agricultural practices and environmental management in this unique and vibrant region.