Last updated: January 18, 2025
Pwani, Tanzania, exhibits a Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Aw, characterized by a distinct dry season and tropical savanna climate. Temperature variations in the region range from a cool minimum of 14°C (58°F) in June to a sweltering maximum of 38°C (101°F) in January, with an average temperature steady at 26°C (79°F). This climatic profile not only influences the local ecosystem and agricultural practices but also shapes the daily lives of its inhabitants, who adapt to the rhythmic seasonal changes.
In Pwani, Tanzania, temperature patterns reveal a tropical climate with noticeable seasonal variations throughout the year. The warmest months, January and February, feature minimum temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and peak at a toasty 38°C (101°F), maintaining an average of 28°C (82°F). As the year progresses into April and May, temperatures slightly dip, with averages falling to 26°C (79°F) and 25°C (78°F), heralding the cooler and drier season. By June and July, the region experiences its coolest temperatures, with minimums dropping to 14°C (58°F) and average highs around 24°C (76°F). This cooler period gradually gives way to a mild resurgence in warmth during October and November, where temperatures rise back to 27°C (81°F) on average, leading into December, which mirrors the warm start of the year with a resurgence in both highs and averages. Overall, the climate reflects a clear transition from hot to cooler periods, punctuated by a brief return to warmth as the year draws to a close.
Bagamoyo experiences a temperate climate with a minimum temperature of 19°C (67°F) in August and a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in January. For more details on the monthly temperatures in Bagamoyo, visit monthly temperatures in Bagamoyo.
Pwani, Tanzania, experiences a pronounced wet season from January to May, characterized by significant rainfall and a considerable number of precipitation days. January begins this trend with 77 mm (3.0 in) of rain over 13 days, followed by February with 83 mm (3.3 in). The peak of the wet season occurs in April, where rainfall surges to 263 mm (10.3 in) over 27 days, indicating the region's reliance on this period for essential moisture. March and May also contribute substantial amounts of rain, with 170 mm (6.7 in) and 169 mm (6.7 in), respectively, ensuring that the initial half of the year is marked by lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems.
As the rainy season transitions to the dry months of June through September, precipitation decreases sharply, with June recording only 25 mm (1.0 in) over a mere 6 days. July continues this trend with an even lower rainfall of 23 mm (0.9 in), and August sees a slight uptick to 29 mm (1.1 in), with minimal precipitation days. The onset of October rekindles rainfall, yielding 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, while November and December prepare for the next cycle, accumulating 120 mm (4.7 in) and 146 mm (5.7 in), respectively. Thus, precipitation in Pwani is characterized by a clear wet season followed by a distinct dry period, significantly shaping the local climate and water availability.
In Pwani, Tanzania, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with significant variations throughout the year. The months of January and February mark the beginning of the year with ample sunshine, recording 282 hours and 310 hours respectively. However, the brightest months of the year are found in the middle of the year, as March reaches 324 hours followed by June, July, August, and September, where sunshine durations consistently exceed 325 hours. Notably, August shines particularly bright with 343 hours, indicating it as one of the peak periods for sunlight. This trend suggests that Pwani benefits from longer daylight hours as it transitions into the dry season, offering optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the year progresses into the latter months, October and November continue to provide abundant sunshine, with durations of 349 hours and 342 hours respectively. December wraps up the year with the highest total of 352 hours, further emphasizing the trend of increasing daylight as the region approaches the end of the calendar year. In contrast, the initial months of the year, particularly January and April, experience relatively lower sunlight. However, the overall pattern demonstrates a steady rise in sunshine hours from early to late year, highlighting the tropical savanna climate of Pwani, which is conducive to warm, sunny days, particularly during the dry season.
The UV Index in Pwani, Tanzania showcases considerable intensity across the calendar year, with values regularly categorized as extreme. From January through April, the region records a consistent UV Index of 14-15, marking it as a period where sun exposure poses significant risks, with a quick burn time of just 10 minutes. March and February are the peak months, both showing a UV Index of 15, which emphasizes the necessity for protective measures against sunburn during these months. As the rainy season approaches its conclusion in April, the UV Index remains high, signaling that individuals engaging in outdoor activities need to remain vigilant.
Transitioning into the drier months from June to October, the UV Index experiences a slight decrease but remains dangerously high. June records a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, with an increased burn time of 15 minutes. However, in July, the index rebounds to 11, and the extreme category returns in August, September, and October, consistently hovering around 13. November follows suit before the year concludes in December, reverting back to 14. Throughout these months, the burn time remains notably low—generally 10-15 minutes—highlighting the importance of sun safety measures year-round, particularly in the dry season when outdoor activities peak.
UV Risk Categories
In Pwani, Tanzania, daylight duration demonstrates a consistent pattern throughout the year, with notable stability across the calendar months. From January through March, the region enjoys a reliable 12 hours of daylight each day, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and maximizing sunlight exposure. As April arrives, the daylight slightly decreases to 11 hours, a trend that continues through May and the mid-year months of June, July, and August. This consistent decline, however, does not indicate significant seasonal variation, as daylight hours remain fairly uniform during these months.
As the year progresses into September, the daylight duration makes a gradual return to 12 hours, maintaining this length through October, November, and December. This cyclical rhythm underscores the geographical characteristics of Pwani, where daylight hours are less influenced by seasonal changes compared to regions situated farther from the equator. Overall, residents enjoy a balanced availability of daylight year-round, peaking at 12 hours during the rainy and dry seasons, with a slight shortening in the mid-year months, allowing for a consistent climate conducive to both leisure and agricultural pursuits.
Bagamoyo, Tanzania experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in June and July to a peak of 28°C (83°F) from January to March. Rainfall is highest from April to May, with April receiving 256 mm (10.1 in), while the dry season from June to August sees significantly lower precipitation, averaging around 30 mm (1.2 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in October with 345 hours, contributing to its vibrant ecosystem. For more details, visit Bagamoyo climate.
In conclusion, Pwani, Tanzania, presents a compelling climatic profile characterized by its tropical savanna climate, marked by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. The region benefits from a warm average temperature and ample sunshine, particularly peaking during the dry season, which fosters vibrant ecosystems and agricultural productivity. However, the extreme UV Index during the sunniest months necessitates vigilant sun protection for outdoor activities. Meanwhile, consistent daylight hours contribute to a stable environment for residents and visitors alike. Collectively, these climatic elements form an intricate web that shapes life in Pwani, offering both challenges and opportunities in this dynamic tropical landscape.