The climate of Hwange
Falling under the BSh, or subtropical steppe of the Köppen climate classification, the town of
Hwange in
Zimbabwe experiences hot, dry conditions. The primary weather characteristics throughout the year include high temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Additionally, the weather parameters vary substantially throughout the year, fluctuating between mild and extreme, with temperatures peaking in certain months and rainfall showing dramatic shifts from one month to the next.
Throughout the year, average high temperatures typically hover in the comfortable 24.7°C (76.5°F) to 35°C (95°F) range, however, the heat can intensify during the summer months, reaching upwards towards 35°C (95°F). Comparatively, the average low temperatures range from a mild 10.4°C (50.7°F) to a warm 20.8°C (69.4°F). The relative humidity fluctuates between 30% during the drier months and reaches up to 75% during periods of more extensive rainfall. The months with the heaviest rain also coincide with decreased sunshine hours, with the annual average standing at 9.2 hours of sunshine per day.
Rainfall patterns are quite distinctive in Hwange, with the heaviest rainfall observed from
November to
February and practically nonexistent rainfall recorded from
May to
September. The rain-free period also coincides with a slump in cloud cover, while wind speeds tend to increase, reaching an annual average of 8.5km/h (5.3mph). The regional wind pattern displays maximum speeds between 10.7km/h (6.6mph) and 16.1km/h (10mph).
The best time to visit Hwange
The prime time to visit
Hwange hinges on the desired activities of visitors. For those looking to explore the natural landscapes under the sun, the period between
June and
October proves to be ideal. The temperatures during these months range from a comfortable 24.8°C (76.6°F) to a warm 33°C (91.4°F), with negligible rainfall. The robust sunshine hours coupled with high visibility conditions render it perfect for outdoor activities. Despite the heat, the humidity levels range from a dry 37% to a moderate 53%, making the overall climate bearable.
The worst time to visit Hwange
The period between
February and
April signifies a less favourable time to visit
Hwange. Excessive rainfall, coupled with low temperatures ranging from 16.1°C (61°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F), and high humidity levels reaching up to 75%, can disrupt outdoor activities and plans. Furthermore, the limited sunshine hours and slightly lower visibility due to increased cloud cover pose additional challenges during these months.
Spring weather in Hwange
In
Hwange, the spring season from
September to
November welcomes warm temperatures ranging from 15.8°C (60.4°F) to 35°C (95°F). Rainfall begins to manifest in November, marking the end of the arid period, with averages reaching 56mm (2.2"). The hours of daylight range from 11.5 hours to 13 hours, with sunlight duration hitting high at 10.4 hours to 12.1 hours per day.
Summer weather in Hwange
The summer months from
December to
February in
Hwange are characterized by high temperatures, ranging from 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 35°C (95°F). These months typically see the heaviest rainfall, averaging between 97mm (3.82") and 109mm (4.29"), coinciding with the highest relative humidity around 72% to 75%. Despite the rains, average daylight remains constant, with 13.1 hours in December.
Autumn weather in Hwange
Between
March and
May,
Hwange witnesses a drop in temperatures, ranging from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F). Rainfall drastically plunges from 68mm (2.68") in March to merely 2mm (0.08") by May. The duration of daylight dips slightly from 12.2 hours in March to 11.3 hours by May's end. However, this period sees a surge in the number of sunshine days, reaching up to 28.3 days in May.
Winter weather in Hwange
Winter spans from
June to
August in
Hwange, with temperatures dropping to an average low of 10.4°C (50.7°F) and reaching high averages of up to 28.8°C (83.8°F) in August. The rainfall is scarce, with only 1mm (0.04") recorded in June and
July, and no rainfall in August. The period presents the clearest skies with the cloud percentage falling to as low as 5% in August. Despite decreased daylight hours, the actual sunshine duration remains stable at 7.6 hours per day.
Weather in January
January's weather in
Hwange,
Zimbabwe announces the presence of summer with substantial heat, reaching a high average temperature of 29.5°C (85.1°F). This month marks a distinct feature of heavy rain, usually combined with high humidity.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As
Hwange transitions from
January to
February, the heat loosens its grip slightly, making the weather more manageable. February continues the trend from January, offering substantial rainfall, resulting in a lively, flourishing environment.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Moving from
February to
March, the weather patterns shift towards a more moderate climate. This versatile city now experiences a drop in rainfall to 68mm (2.68") and a decrease in average high temperature to 28.8°C (83.8°F). March in
Hwange is marked by decreased humidity, lending comfort to the residents and visitors.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April,
Hwange experiences a significant shift in weather as the city heads towards winter. Assisted by a drop in temperature and humidity, the city provides a fresh, cool atmosphere. Compared to
March, rainfall dramatically recedes, transforming the city's vibrant green landscape into hues of orange and brown.
Weather in April »Weather in May
The advent of
May announces winter's arrival in
Hwange,
Zimbabwe, with a pronounced drop in temperature and negligible rainfall of merely 2mm (0.08"). As the cool air sets in, the city embraces the cold with grace. With the arrival of winter, daylight hours reduce further, yet the city's charm remains unscathed.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June carries forward the winter spell from
May, offering cold nights and mild days. Even though the rainfall remains almost nonexistent, the city is not devoid of its typical beauty. The reduction in temperature contributes to comfortable weather, fit for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Hwange's weather reaches its winter peak, with one of the lowest average high temperatures recorded at 24.7°C (76.5°F). The city experiences a striking characteristic of zero rainfall, marking July as the driest month. Despite the drier conditions, the city remains lively with comfortable daytime temperatures.
Weather in July »Weather in August
As winter starts to recede,
Hwange's
August weather brings a mild increase in temperature compared to
July. The city, clad in its drought-inspired beauty, receives zero rainfall, continuing the trend from July. Despite the low temperatures, the city radiates warmth from the abundant sunshine.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September promises refreshing weather in
Hwange as the transition towards the hot months begins. The city's landscape starts transforming, leaving behind the winter hues. The weather commences its journey from cool to warm days, though nights remain pleasantly cool.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
With the arrival of
October, the city of
Hwange experiences its highest average temperature of 35°C (95°F). This month is an indicator of the intense heat that summer in
Zimbabwe is known for. With clear skies, the days are sun-kissed and vibrant, encouraging a lively city atmosphere.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November sees a slight respite from the torrid
October heat with a drop in average high temperature to 32.7°C (90.9°F). The city moves towards the peak of its hot season, experiencing an increase in rainfall to 56mm (2.2"). A distinct shift from the last few months, the rumbles of thunderstorms can be heard echoing across
Hwange.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In this final month,
Hwange experiences a blend of warmth, rain, and festive cheer.
December's weather manifests a slight reduction in heat as compared to
November, returning to initial
January temperatures. Coinciding with the holiday season, this month is brimming with jubilation and celebration.
Weather in December » [Resources]