The climate of Mbale
Mbale, a city located in
Uganda, experiences a predominantly Am climate as per the Köppen climate classification, which refers to a Tropical monsoon climate. This climate character is known for high temperatures that remain relatively constant throughout the year as well as the significant precipitation patterns. Mbale experiences monthly average high temperatures ranging from 23.8°C (74.8°F) in
July to 30°C (86°F) in
February and monthly average low temperatures varying from 15°C (59°F) in
June to 16.9°C (62.4°F) in February. These temperature profiles affirm the city's tropical climate characteristic.
Noteworthy in Mbale's climatic profile is the amount and distribution of rainfall across the year. Rainfall is considerably more abundant from
March to
November, with rainfall volumes reaching their peak in
May at 319mm (12.56"), then slightly decreasing to 248mm (9.76") in
August. On average, Mbale encounters substantial rainfall throughout the year, apart from
December to February when precipitation decreases significantly, with lowest volumes being 42mm (1.65") in
January.
With regard to humidity, Mbale maintains high readings, particularly during the rainy months, peaking at 86% in May. On drier months, humidity decreases gradually, reaching its lowest value of 52% in February. Another significant parameter is the daylight hours, remaining mostly stable, averaging 12.1 hours throughout the year. The sunshine hours also remain stable, varying from 8.1 hours in May to 9.7 hours in January and February.
The best time to visit Mbale
The ideal timing to explore
Mbale's charm is during the drier months from
December to
February. Temperatures are relatively warm, with highs oscillating between 24.1°C (75.4°F) to 30°C (86°F) and lows from 15.8°C (60.4°F) to 16.9°C (62.4°F). Rainfall during these months is the least throughout the year, averaging from 42mm (1.65") to 124mm (4.88"), making outdoor activities more feasible. Days are approximately 12.1 hours long and UV index is rated 6, making it a great time for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural landscapes and attractions in Mbale.
The worst time to visit Mbale
Holidaymakers may want to steer clear of
Mbale from
March to
November when the city experiences its heaviest rainfall.
May, in particular, sees the highest rainfall reaching 319mm (12.56"), with an average of 30.4 rainy days in a month. Temperatures during these months are also a tad lower ranging from 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F), with the lowest temperature recorded at 15°C (59°F) in
June. The higher humidity levels during these months, reaching up to 86% in May, and lower sunshine hours of around 8.1 hours in May might also affect outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Mbale
Spring in
Mbale sees a gradual surge in rainfall, commencing in
March with 136mm (5.35") and peaking at 319mm (12.56") in
May. Average high temperatures range from 28.8°C (83.8°F) in March to 23.9°C (75°F) in May, while lows vary between 16.8°C (62.2°F) and 15°C (59°F). Humidity rises steadily throughout the season, starting at 62% in March and reaching up to 86% by May, mirroring the increased rainfall.
Summer weather in Mbale
Summer months in
Mbale exhibit reduced rainfall with
August recording 248mm (9.76") of rain and high humidity levels averaging 80%. Average high temperatures hover around the mid-20s.
Weather in February
The second month of the year continues the trend of pleasant weather started in
January.
February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a peak temperature reaching 30°C (86°F). It is also a month characterized by reduced cloud cover and moderately high visibility.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March indicates a transition towards the warmer part of the year in
Mbale. The temperature remains fairly stable with a slight dip compared to
February. Rainfall begins to increase significantly in this month, hinting at the approaching wet season.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant change in the weather pattern, indicating the onset of the rainy season. The amount of daylight remains nearly constant, but the increase in cloud cover and precipitation is noticeable. The peak rainfall in April is at 261mm (10.28"), the highest for the year.
Weather in April » Weather in May
As the calendar turns to
May, the climate in
Mbale remains on the cooler side. One can expect frequent rains providing a fresh and moist ambiance throughout the city. Humidity climbs to an annual high of 86% due to increased rainfall.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Weather in
June continues to be characterized by rain, but also sees a considerable decrease in temperature. Rainfall is seen to decrease relative to
May, and the humidity shows a slight reduction. The cool temperatures make walking around town enjoyable despite the wet conditions.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the coolest month in
Mbale, with temperatures going as low as 15.2°C (59.4°F). Apart from the drop in temperature, the city continues to receive steady rainfall. The weather remains substantially wet with a refreshingly clean and crisp air around the city.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As we proceed towards
August, the weather begins to show signs of a transition towards a warmer period. The rainfall is relatively heavier compared to
July. While the temperature remains on the cooler side, the city starts warming up slowly.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September witnesses an increase in sunlit days, signifying the tapering off of the rainy season. Sunshine duration increases, enhancing the warmth during the day. The temperature curve gradually rises, and a slight increase in wind speed is noted, maxing out at 4.1km/h (2.5mph).
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October welcomes back the warm weather in
Mbale, with the city experiencing a noticeable increase in temperature. The precipitation level is still relatively high, but the number of sunshine hours increases as well. Despite the remaining rainfall, the month marks a transition towards more sunshine-filled days.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November marks the onset of the dry period in
Mbale. Temperatures continue to increase, with minimal variation from
October. Though rainfall continues to decrease, cloudy skies and high humidity levels are still part of the city's climate.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December signifies the full onset of the dry season in
Mbale, with reduced rainfall and fewer rainy days. The temperature remains relatively unchanged from
November. Although there is a noticeable drop in rainfall to 124mm (4.88") in December, overall, the month is characterized by clear skies and abundant sunshine.
Weather in December » [Resources]