Climate and monthly weather forecast
Nkhata Bay, Malawi

Nkhata Bay decidedly possesses a Köppen climate classification of Aw, also known as tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. Being situated in the Southern Hemisphere, the locality bears witness to climatic conditions that vary throughout the year due to seasonal transitions. The weather parameters shift prominently in opposed phases concerning rainfall and temperature, thereby exhibiting a recurrent but unique pattern of meteorological interfaces.

Reflecting upon the periodic weather changes over the twelve months in Nkhata Bay, a marked fluctuation in temperatures is observed. The highs primarily oscillate from a moderate 25.5°C (77.9°F), typically in July, to a more intense 30.4°C (86.7°F) experienced in November. On the other hand, lower limits swing moderately from 15.2°C (59.4°F) to 21.3°C (70.3°F), indicating a relatively less varied thermal range. Notably, the temperature calendar shows that the warmer months lie towards the end of the year, moving towards December.

Contrastingly, rainfall amounts seesaw from a remarkably low 5mm (0.2") in August to an impressive 358mm (14.09"), witnessed in March. The count of rainy days resonates with this trend, confirming less precipitation mid-year and an intensified wet spell at the yearly quarters. Meanwhile, humidity levels mildly ricochet between 68% and 85%, underlining a surrounding atmosphere of moderate to high moisture throughout the year.

Radiant sunshine reveals an escalating design, from a humble 5.5 hours daily in January to a shining peak of 10.1 hours in October. Similar to the sunlight, the ultraviolet index hovers around 9 to 12, a pointer towards significant solar exposure across the months.

Considering the meteorological data, the most suitable period to explore Nkhata Bay would be from June to October. During these months, temperatures are moderate, rainfall is at a minimum permitting the area to take full advantage of increased daylight hours and maximum sunshine. With UV index falling in the safe limit, tourists can enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about excessive sun exposure.

Visitors might prefer to avoid Nkhata Bay from the commencement of the year until March, a period that experiences torrential downpours, with a peak rainfall of 358mm (14.09") in March coupled with increased humidity. Although these months also register moderate temperatures, the necessary travel and outdoor activities might be disturbed by the frequent and considerable precipitation.

The onset of spring in Nkhata Bay, witnessed from September to November, brings along warmer temperatures ranging from 17.4°C (63.3°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F) and slowly reducing rainfall counts starting from 3mm (0.12") in September. With prolonged sunshine duration touching 10.1 hours in October, this season paves the way for an inviting weather perfect for a myriad of outdoor activities.

The summer months from December to February at Nkhata Bay highlight a blend of high temperatures between 21.3°C (70.3°F) and 30.2°C (86.4°F), and substantial rain volumes, with February recording levels of up to 201mm (7.91"). While sunshine hours remain above the yearly average, the increase in humidity levels to 84% along with a high UV index signals towards a warmer and wetter season.

Autumn makes its appearance in Nkhata Bay between March and May, along with it carrying declining temperatures ranging from 17.9°C (64.2°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F). Rainfall sees a downward shift, dropping from a yearly high in March to 134mm (5.28") in May. The diminishing frequency of sunshine hours during this period perfectly suits the definition of this traditionally transitional season.

The winter season in Nkhata Bay commences in June and extends until August. Whereas temperatures drop modestly from 15.2°C (59.4°F) to 25.5°C (77.9°F), a run-down of the precipitation levels is prominent, reaching its yearly lowest in August at just 5mm (0.2"). Considering this with considerably stable daylight and increased sunshine hours, winter days in this region are charmingly mild and dry.

January in Nkhata Bay, Malawi, typically hosts a series of tropical thunderstorms. The atmosphere is humid, and the temperature hovers between 21.1°C (70°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F), making this month muggy. Heat and rain paint a picture of a typical tropical rainy season. Weather in January »

In Nkhata Bay, February has similar weather to January, with the city still soaked in a relatively warm and wet climate. Rainfall drops marginally to 201mm (7.91") over 17 days. The shortening of daylight hours by 0.2 units is barely noticeable. Weather in February »

March brings the most rain in Nkhata Bay, Malawi, with a peak rainfall of 358mm (14.09") over 20 days. The weather remains significantly humid despite a slight drop in temperature range. Daylight decreases, leading to shorter days, yet there is a noticeable increase in sunshine hours. Weather in March »

In Nkhata Bay, the transition towards the drier season starts in April. The rainfall decreases starkly to 283mm (11.14") over 18 days marking a transition towards the drier season. The amount of sunshine sees a minor increase with a small decrease in daylight hours. Weather in April »

May is an indicator of the commencement of the dry season in Nkhata Bay. It is less humid with a drop in minimum temperature to 17.9°C (64.2°F), marking the onset of comfortable weather. Rainfall numbers decrease substantially, signaling the area's transition from the monsoon to the dry season. Weather in May »

June in Nkhata Bay exhibits a drier weather pattern with June being the coolest month. The significant decrease in rainfall to 37mm (1.46") coupled with the lowest relative humidity, at 78%, of the year, reinforces the commencement of the dry season. Weather in June »

July signifies the heart of the dry season in Nkhata Bay. With barely noticeable rainfall of 33mm (1.3"), the weather remains dry and fairly warm. Furthermore, a consistently lower relative humidity suggests relatively comfortable weather. Weather in July »

By August, Nkhata Bay’s weather carries the drier climate’s characteristics with absolute minimal rainfall of 5mm (0.2"). The UV index is back up to 10 suggesting a need for sun protection during outdoor activities. The temperature takes a mild leap upwards, indicating the gradual transition towards the wetter and warmer months of the year. Weather in August »

In September, Nkhata Bay’s sees an upward shift in the city’s temperatures, 17.4°C (63.3°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F). Along with longer daylight hours and maximum sunshine, the city slowly usher in the warmer months. The UV index touches its maximum value again, indicating strong sun intensity. Weather in September »

October carries forward the warming trend observed in September in Nkhata Bay. Previous years’ data indicate increased rainfall of 14mm (0.55") and a rise in relative humidity, signaling the imminent arrival of the rainy season. Weather in October »

November in Nkhata Bay usually sees a marked rise in rainfall to 118mm (4.65"), fairly distributing this increase over 8 days. The weather continues to warm up with a gradual rise in both minimum and maximum temperatures. Coupled with a steep rise in humidity, the city readies itself to step into the rainy season. Weather in November »

December's weather in Nkhata Bay closely mirrors that of the early wet months with substantial rainfall of 247mm (9.72") spread over 17 days. The climate remains warm and humid, although the minimum temperature sees a minor decrease compared to November. Weather in December »