Climate and monthly weather forecast
Democratic Republic of Congo

Geographically, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a massive country that spans the equator, occupying a total area of over 2.34 million square kilometers. Consequently, the country experiences a diverse range of climatic conditions. With tropical rainforests dominating the central part of the Congo Basin, the DRC is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with monthly averages typically hovering around 25°C (77°F). Additionally, it experiences heavy precipitation, usually between 1,200mm (7.87") and 1,700mm (27.56") annually. Surrounding the Basin, the climate transitions into a tropical monsoon climate, with a brief, albeit distinct, dry season. The tropical savannah climate in most of the rest of the country is characterized by a clearer distinction between wet and dry seasons. However, the southern high-altitude regions exhibit a warm China climate with cooler minimum temperatures, and the high mountain climate of the Rwenzori mountain range presents a stark contrast, often featuring permanent snow and ice.

Planning a trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo requires careful consideration of the country's diverse climate zones. However, the best time to visit is generally during the dry season, which falls between June and September in the savannah regions and December to February in the rainforest. The dry season provides the best conditions for wildlife viewing, particularly in national parks such as Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega. Moreover, during these periods, the risk of malaria, a common concern in tropical climates, tends to be lower. Visitors aiming for mountaineering or trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains should also prefer the dry months to avoid hazardous conditions.

Traveling to the Democratic Republic of Congo during the wet season can be quite challenging due to heavy rainfall and potentially difficult travel conditions. For the central basin and the monsoon climate zones, the most intense rainfall typically occurs between October and May. Meanwhile, in the savannah regions, the wet season usually starts in October and lasts until May. During these times, roads, especially in rural areas, can become impassable due to flooding and poor maintenance. Moreover, high humidity can enhance the risk of contracting diseases such as malaria.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the concept of 'spring' does not apply as it would in temperate climates. However, the period from March to May, when many parts of the world are experiencing spring, corresponds with the wet season in most of the country. During these months, the rainfall in the tropical rainforest region can reach up to 200mm (7.87") per month, with temperatures remaining steady at 25°C (77°F). In contrast, the savannah regions experience less precipitation, averaging 100mm (3.94") per month, with slightly higher temperatures ranging from 27°C (80.6°F) to 29°C (84.2°F).

For most parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the months from June to August fall within the dry season. Average temperatures remain high, typically around 25°C (77°F) in the rainforest and ranging from 27°C (80.6°F) to 30°C (86°F) in the savannah regions. Rainfall is minimal during this period, often less than 50mm (1.97") per month. However, in the high-altitude regions, temperatures can drop significantly, with nighttime lows in the Rwenzori Mountains potentially dipping below freezing.

From September to November, the Democratic Republic of Congo begins transitioning back into the wet season. Temperatures in both the rainforest and savannah regions remain relatively stable, with averages between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall starts to increase, particularly towards the end of this period. In the rainforest region, monthly precipitation can reach 150mm (5.91"), while in the savannah areas, it averages around 100mm (3.94"). The high-altitude regions continue to exhibit cooler temperatures, particularly during the night.

Winter, from December to February, in the Democratic Republic of Congo corresponds with the dry season in the tropical rainforest climate, and temperatures remain fairly stable. Average temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F) in the rainforest and between 27°C (80.6°F) to 30°C (86°F) in the savannah regions. Rainfall is relatively low, particularly in the rainforest region, where it averages less than 50mm (1.97") per month. On the contrary, the Rwenzori Mountains continue to experience colder conditions, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the weather in January is predominantly dictated by the different climatic zones present within the country's borders. In the tropical rainforest climate of the central basin, January falls within the dry season. Consequently, the region, including cities like Kisangani, receives comparatively less rainfall. Monthly precipitation averages around 50mm (1.97"), a significant decrease from the heavier rainfall of the preceding months. Temperatures, however, remain consistently high, averaging 25°C (77°F), which is typical for this equatorial region.

Moving towards the savannah regions, January is generally one of the wetter months of the year. Cities such as Lubumbashi, located in the southeastern part of the country, experience increased rainfall during this time. Average precipitation ranges from 150mm (5.91") to 200mm (7.87"), while temperatures hover between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

In the high-altitude regions, January presents more varied conditions. Areas like Bukavu, situated near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, observe cooler temperatures due to their altitude. The daily average temperature can vary from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), and nighttime temperatures often drop further.

Comparatively, January is a transition month in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The rainforest regions are in the midst of their dry season, offering a stark contrast to the more rainy conditions observed in December. Conversely, the savannah regions are transitioning into their wetter period, seeing a notable increase in precipitation when compared to the preceding dry season in November and December. The January weather provides an intriguing mix of conditions across the country's diverse climatic zones. January Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

February continues the contrasting weather patterns observed in January across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The tropical rainforest climate in the central basin, including cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, persists with its dry season. Precipitation remains relatively low, with average rainfall measuring approximately 60mm (2.36"), a slight increase from January. However, the temperatures continue to stay consistent, with daily averages around 25°C (77°F).

In contrast, the savannah regions, particularly those encompassing cities like Kananga and Lubumbashi, remain within their wet season. The average precipitation during February can range from 150mm (5.91") to 180mm (7.09"), remaining relatively similar to the levels observed in January. Temperatures, likewise, continue to average between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

In higher-altitude regions, such as Bukavu near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, February remains relatively cool. Daytime temperatures fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping further.

In comparison to January, February maintains similar climatic trends across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The rainforest regions continue their dry season, while the savannah areas persist with their wet season. This month thus offers a continuation of the diverse and contrasting weather conditions experienced across the country's various climatic zones. February Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

As the calendar turns to March in the Democratic Republic of Congo, there's a shift in the weather pattern, especially in the central rainforest region. Cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, situated in this region, begin to transition from the dry season to the wet season. Consequently, rainfall begins to increase, with averages climbing to 120mm (4.72"), marking a significant change from the drier conditions in February. Temperatures remain steady, with averages around 25°C (77°F).

Contrarily, the savannah regions, including cities like Kananga and Lubumbashi, continue in their wet season during March. The average precipitation remains relatively high, with monthly totals between 150mm (5.91") and 200mm (7.87"). Temperatures maintain their usual range, averaging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F).

For the higher-altitude regions, such as Bukavu near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, March brings little change. Daytime temperatures continue to range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with nighttime temperatures often dropping further.

March is thus a transitional month for the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly for the rainforest region. The shift from the dry to the wet season in this area contrasts with the persisting wet conditions in the savannah regions, contributing to the country's diverse weather patterns. The climatic conditions across the Democratic Republic of Congo continue to exhibit their fascinating contrast as March unfolds. March Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

The transition to the wet season continues into April for the tropical rainforest climate of the central Congo Basin. Major cities in this region, such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, witness further increases in precipitation. Average rainfall during April can reach 150mm (5.91"), continuing the upward trend from March. Consistent with the previous months, temperatures remain steady with daily averages hovering around 25°C (77°F).

In the savannah regions, April often marks the peak of the wet season. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi experience high levels of precipitation, with monthly totals ranging from 200mm (7.87") to 250mm (9.84"). This marks one of the highest average rainfall in the year for these regions. Concurrently, temperatures maintain their usual range, averaging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F).

Higher-altitude regions, including areas around the Rwenzori Mountain Range like Bukavu, continue to experience cooler temperatures. Daytime temperatures vary from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with nighttime lows potentially dropping even further.

In comparison to March, the month of April in the Democratic Republic of Congo marks an intensification of the wet season in both the rainforest and savannah regions. This increased rainfall makes April one of the rainiest months across most of the country. Therefore, the climatic conditions during this month underscore the diversity of the Congolese climate and its dynamic transition between seasons. April Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

As May unfolds in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the central rainforest region continues to experience the wet season. Cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani see high rainfall, with monthly averages around 180mm (7.09"). This represents a slight increase from the previous month, maintaining the typical climatic trend of this time of the year. Simultaneously, temperatures stay consistent with the average around 25°C (77°F).

Meanwhile, in the savannah regions of the country, May usually marks the end of the wet season. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi witness a decrease in precipitation compared to April, with monthly totals falling to an average of 50mm (1.97") to 100mm (3.94"). This shift marks the transition to the dry season in these regions. The temperature during this time of the year continues to stay between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

The high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, including areas like Bukavu, continue to observe lower temperatures due to their elevation. Daytime temperatures usually fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with cooler temperatures during the night.

Compared to April, May signifies a shift in weather patterns across the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the rainforest region continues to experience significant rainfall, the savannah regions begin transitioning to their dry season. As such, May offers a contrasting mix of weather conditions across the country's diverse climatic zones. May Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

June ushers in significant changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo's climate. In the central rainforest region, including cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, the wet season comes to an end. Average precipitation decreases to 100mm (3.94"), marking a significant drop from the heavy rainfall seen in May. Despite the reduced rainfall, temperatures remain consistent, with averages around 25°C (77°F).

Conversely, the savannah regions, home to cities like Kananga and Lubumbashi, are now firmly within their dry season. Average precipitation in June falls further to between 10mm (0.39") to 30mm (1.18"), representing the lowest rainfall levels for these areas during the year. Temperatures continue to remain steady, with averages ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F).

The high-altitude regions, such as areas near the Rwenzori Mountain Range including Bukavu, maintain lower temperatures due to their elevation. Daytime temperatures generally fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with cooler temperatures during the night.

In comparison to May, June brings about distinct climatic changes across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The rainforest region begins to dry out after the end of its wet season, while the savannah areas continue in their dry season. This mix of weather conditions during June highlights the diversity of the Democratic Republic of Congo's climate across its various regions. June Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

July in the Democratic Republic of Congo sees a continuation of the dry season in both the central rainforest region and the savannah areas. Cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, located in the central basin, experience further decreases in rainfall. Average precipitation during July can fall to 50mm (1.97"), making it one of the driest months in these regions. As with previous months, temperatures stay consistent, averaging 25°C (77°F).

Similarly, in the savannah regions, July marks one of the driest months of the year. Cities like Kananga and Lubumbashi observe minimal rainfall, with monthly totals averaging between 10mm (0.39") to 20mm (0.79"). Despite the lack of rainfall, temperatures remain stable, fluctuating between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

Meanwhile, the higher-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, including Bukavu, continue to experience cooler temperatures due to their altitude. Average daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), dropping further during the night.

Compared to June, the weather conditions in July across the Democratic Republic of Congo remain relatively unchanged. Both the rainforest and savannah regions continue their dry season, resulting in reduced precipitation across the country. The persistent high temperatures and low rainfall typify the country's climate during this month. July Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

August continues the prevailing dry season across most regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The central rainforest region, encompassing cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, remains dry with low levels of rainfall. Average precipitation during this month lies around 50mm (1.97"), consistent with the conditions observed in July. Temperatures continue to hover around the 25°C (77°F) mark, maintaining the typical thermal stability of this region.

In the savannah areas, the dry conditions persist throughout August. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi experience one of their driest months of the year, with average precipitation ranging from 10mm (0.39") to 20mm (0.79"). Temperatures remain steady, fluctuating between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F), providing warm and dry conditions for these regions.

In contrast, the high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, including places like Bukavu, continue to experience cooler temperatures due to their elevation. The daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), dropping further during the night.

Comparing to July, August offers similar weather conditions across the Democratic Republic of Congo. Both the rainforest region and savannah areas extend their dry season, while temperatures remain relatively stable. The weather during this month continues to represent the varied and distinctive climatic zones found within the country. August Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

September is a transitional month in the Democratic Republic of Congo as the regions across the country start to shift from the dry to the wet season. In the central rainforest region, cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani begin to experience increased rainfall. Average precipitation starts to rise, reaching around 100mm (3.94"), marking a distinct change from the preceding dry months. Temperatures continue to remain consistent, with averages around 25°C (77°F).

Meanwhile, the savannah regions, including cities like Kananga and Lubumbashi, also start to see the early signs of the wet season. Average rainfall increases slightly from the extremely low levels observed in August, reaching around 30mm (1.18") to 60mm (2.36"). The temperatures in these regions continue to fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

In contrast, the high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, such as Bukavu, maintain their cooler climate due to their altitude. Daytime temperatures usually vary between 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with cooler temperatures during the night.

Compared to August, September marks a noticeable shift in the weather patterns across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The gradual increase in rainfall in both the rainforest and savannah regions signifies the onset of the wet season, offering a dynamic blend of weather conditions across the country's diverse climatic zones. September Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

October in the Democratic Republic of Congo sees a continuation of the transition from the dry to the wet season across different regions of the country. The central rainforest region, including cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, sees further increases in rainfall, with average precipitation rising to 150mm (5.91"). Temperatures in these areas continue to stay steady, averaging 25°C (77°F).

In the savannah regions, the onset of the wet season becomes more pronounced in October. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi experience an increase in average rainfall, with monthly totals ranging from 80mm (3.15") to 120mm (4.72"). Despite the rise in precipitation, temperatures remain within the usual range, fluctuating between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

The high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, like Bukavu, continue to experience cooler temperatures due to their elevation. Daytime temperatures generally fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), with cooler temperatures during the night.

Compared to September, October witnesses a further progression of the wet season in both the rainforest and savannah regions. The increase in rainfall marks a shift in the overall weather pattern, highlighting the dynamic nature of the Democratic Republic of Congo's climate as the year progresses. October Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

November represents the height of the wet season for many regions within the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the central rainforest region, encompassing cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, rainfall reaches its peak with average precipitation hitting around 200mm (7.87"). This denotes a significant increase from October, underscoring the intensity of the wet season in these areas. Despite the high rainfall, temperatures remain fairly consistent, averaging 25°C (77°F).

In the savannah regions, November is also characterized by heavy rainfall. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi observe their highest average rainfall of the year, with monthly totals potentially exceeding 200mm (7.87"). Concurrently, temperatures continue to fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F).

The high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, such as Bukavu, sustain cooler temperatures due to their elevation. Typical daytime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), dropping further during the night.

Compared to October, November sees the wet season intensifying across both the rainforest and savannah regions. This month is often characterized by its high rainfall across most of the country, making it one of the rainiest months in the Democratic Republic of Congo. November Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

December continues the trend of the wet season in most regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo, albeit with a slight decrease in precipitation. The central rainforest region, including cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, experiences high levels of rainfall, albeit slightly lower than November, with average precipitation around 180mm (7.09"). Despite the slight decrease in rainfall, temperatures continue to hover around the 25°C (77°F) mark.

In the savannah regions, rainfall also remains high in December. Cities such as Kananga and Lubumbashi experience substantial rainfall, with monthly averages between 150mm (5.91") and 200mm (7.87"). Temperatures continue to fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82.4°F), offering warm conditions despite the heavy precipitation.

The high-altitude regions near the Rwenzori Mountain Range, including areas like Bukavu, continue to record cooler temperatures due to their elevation. The daytime temperatures generally fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), dropping further during the night.

Compared to November, December experiences a minor reduction in rainfall across both the rainforest and savannah regions, while temperatures remain relatively stable. The wet season continues its hold on the country, making December a notably rainy month within the Democratic Republic of Congo's climatic calendar. December Weather in the Democratic Republic of Congo »

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the weather in January is predominantly dictated by the different climatic zones present within the country's borders. In the tropical rainforest climate of the central basin, January falls within the dry season. Weather in January »

February continues the contrasting weather patterns observed in January across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The tropical rainforest climate in the central basin, including cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, persists with its dry season. Weather in February »

As the calendar turns to March in the Democratic Republic of Congo, there's a shift in the weather pattern, especially in the central rainforest region. Cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, situated in this region, begin to transition from the dry season to the wet season. Weather in March »

The transition to the wet season continues into April for the tropical rainforest climate of the central Congo Basin. Major cities in this region, such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, witness further increases in precipitation. Average rainfall during April can reach 150mm (5.91"), continuing the upward trend from March. Weather in April »

As May unfolds in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the central rainforest region continues to experience the wet season. Cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani see high rainfall, with monthly averages around 180mm (7.09"). This represents a slight increase from the previous month, maintaining the typical climatic trend of this time of the year. Weather in May »

June ushers in significant changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo's climate. In the central rainforest region, including cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, the wet season comes to an end. Average precipitation decreases to 100mm (3.94"), marking a significant drop from the heavy rainfall seen in May. Weather in June »

July in the Democratic Republic of Congo sees a continuation of the dry season in both the central rainforest region and the savannah areas. Cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani, located in the central basin, experience further decreases in rainfall. Weather in July »

August continues the prevailing dry season across most regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The central rainforest region, encompassing cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, remains dry with low levels of rainfall. Average precipitation during this month lies around 50mm (1.97"), consistent with the conditions observed in July. Weather in August »

September is a transitional month in the Democratic Republic of Congo as the regions across the country start to shift from the dry to the wet season. In the central rainforest region, cities such as Mbandaka and Kisangani begin to experience increased rainfall. Weather in September »

October in the Democratic Republic of Congo sees a continuation of the transition from the dry to the wet season across different regions of the country. The central rainforest region, including cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, sees further increases in rainfall, with average precipitation rising to 150mm (5.91"). Weather in October »

November represents the height of the wet season for many regions within the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the central rainforest region, encompassing cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, rainfall reaches its peak with average precipitation hitting around 200mm (7.87"). Weather in November »

December continues the trend of the wet season in most regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo, albeit with a slight decrease in precipitation. The central rainforest region, including cities like Mbandaka and Kisangani, experiences high levels of rainfall, albeit slightly lower than November, with average precipitation around 180mm (7.09"). Weather in December »