The climate of Bukavu
Bukavu, nestled within the
Democratic Republic of Congo, boasts a notably temperate highland tropical climate, falling under the Köppen climate classification of Cwb. This suggests the city experiences dry winters and moderate rainfall in the summer.
Diving into the specific weather parameters, an evident cycle of weather patterns unravels. High temperatures oscillate between 22.8°C (73°F) and 24.6°C (76.3°F) over a year, reflecting a rather consistent warmth. Similarly, the low temperatures show delicate fluctuations, cycling between 12.5°C (54.5°F) and 15.2°C (59.4°F). Relatively high humidity levels accompany these temperatures, averaging around 73% to 81%.
In terms of precipitation, distinct patterns emerge. Bukavu's rainfall ranges from a minimum of 21mm (0.83") in
July to a maximum of 167mm (6.57") in
December. Interestingly, the number of rainfall days follows a similar pattern, peaking in December with 30.1 days.
The best time to visit Bukavu
Since
Bukavu's climate remains relatively stable throughout the annual cycle, the most hospitable time for tourists hinges on their preference for precipitation rather than temperature. Travelers keen on staying dry would best appreciate Bukavu between
July and
August, when rainfall hovers around 21mm (0.83") to 26mm (1.02"), respectively, and average temperature peaks. Concurrently, these months record the least number of rainfall days, making them ideal for visitors eager to explore the tropical highlands.
The worst time to visit Bukavu
Visitors looking to avoid heavy rainfall should steer clear of
Bukavu between
October and
December. These months register an intense increase in rainfall, peaking at 167mm (6.57") in December. Similarly, the number of rainfall days surges during this period, with each month averaging nearly a downpour each day. Despite moderate temperatures, the increased precipitation might obstruct outdoor excursions during these months.
Spring weather in Bukavu
Unlike regions with more temperate climates,
Bukavu's spring season does not register a drastic change from its usual patterns. From
March to
May, high temperatures range from 24.1°C (75.4°F) to 22.8°C (73°F), and low temperatures range from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 13.3°C (55.9°F). Rainfall, however, increases considerable from 130mm (5.12") in March to 146mm (5.75") in
April, before declining to 105mm (4.13") in May.
Summer weather in Bukavu
Bukavu experiences its driest season between
June and
August, also known as its summer months. While high temperatures remain consistent, hovering between 22.9°C (73.2°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F), rainfall significantly declines from 48mm (1.89") in June to reach the year's lowest point at 21mm (0.83") in
July. The number of rainfall days likewise drops substantially during this period, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Bukavu
In
Bukavu, the autumn months from
September to
November bring a rapid increase in rainfall. Precipitation during this period soars from 64mm (2.52") in September to a steep 156mm (6.14") in November. Conversely, temperatures continue their consistent cycle, with high temperatures between 24.6°C (76.3°F) and 23.4°C (74.1°F).
Winter weather in Bukavu
The winter months in
Bukavu, from
December to
February, are marked by high precipitation, making it the wettest period of the year. While temperatures remain moderate, with high temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F), rain dramatically spikes to reach a yearly high of 167mm (6.57") in December. Consequently, the number of rainfall days also peaks during this period, with 30.1 days in December and
January respectively.
Weather in January
Weather in February
Moving into
February, residents of
Bukavu notice little change compared to
January, with weather patterns remaining relatively steady. Undulating landscapes continue to be bathed in significant rainfall, encouraging lush greenery to thrive.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The first month of the autumn,
March, is also a moderately hot month in
Bukavu,
Democratic Republic of Congo, with an average temperature ranging between min 13.3°C (55.9°F) and max 24.1°C (75.4°F). March's presence records an average high-temperature of a still warm 24.1°C (75.4°F), closely mirroring
February's climate.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings with it a continuance of consistent rainfall in
Bukavu, although precipitation begins to marginally decrease towards the end of the month. Weather parameters stay within a narrow range, with minor variations in temperature, humidity, and wind speed.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May,
Bukavu enters a transitional weather phase, albeit maintaining its overall wet climate. Rainfall begins to recede from the peak seen in
April, setting the stage for the subsequent dryer months. Temperature, daylight, and sunshine maintain their steady averages, while wind speed sees a slight uptick.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June introduces
Bukavu to the first nuances of drier weather. Sporadic rains shower the city, complemented by constant temperatures and increasing sunshine hours. With
July around the corner, citizens eagerly anticipate enjoying more outdoor activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
As
July unfolds,
Bukavu realigns its rhythm to a reduced rainfall regime. Temperatures are steady, and the city basks in increased Sunlight, resplendent in its dry glory. Notably, there is a dip in the number of rainfall days, implying an increase in dry periods.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August continues the trend of minimized rainfall seen in
July, maintaining the balance between humidity levels and sunlight hours. Weather toeing the line of the previous month,
Bukavu experiences a consistent breeze and a continuation of mild temperatures.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September ushers in a phase of increased rainfall, signaling the end of the brief dry spell and the return of
Bukavu's consistent wet climate. Temperature, humidity, and daylight exhibit minor fluctuations, remaining largely stable.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Bukavu marks a significant shift in weather patterns, as rainfall multiplies from the previous month. The city witnesses robust spells of rain mingled with constant temperatures and approximately constant hours of daylight and sunshine.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November,
Bukavu experiences its second-highest average monthly rainfall for the year. Weather parameters align to perpetuate the wet conditions, with temperature and humidity staying constant. The wind speed also drops, contributing to the pervading moist environment.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Bukavu closes the year on a particularly wet note, culminating in the highest rainfall compared to the preceding months. The weather conditions remain consistent, with mild temperatures and average humidity, while sunlight diminishes slightly.
Weather in December » [Resources]