Climate and monthly weather forecast
Zambia

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The climate of Zambia

Located in the Southern region of Africa, Zambia is primarily a high plateau that rises to altitudes of 1,000 to 1,600 meters above sea level. The highest peak, Mafinga Mountain, stands at over 2,300 meters. This geographical aspect plays a significant role in shaping Zambia's weather patterns throughout the year. The country experiences three primary Köppen climate classifications, namely Humid Subtropical (Cfa), Tropical Wet and Dry (Aw), and Semi-arid Steppe (BSh). The unique combination of these climates facilitates a diverse weather system, resulting in significant variations in temperature and precipitation across the country's expanse.

The Best Time to Visit Zambia

Given the variable climatic conditions, the best time to visit Zambia would be between May and October. During these months, the weather is comparatively cooler, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57.2°F) to 25°C (77°F). This period, which corresponds to Zambia's dry season, is also the prime time for wildlife viewing, particularly in the national parks. Reduced rainfall results in fewer water sources, leading animals to congregate around remaining water bodies. Furthermore, the sparse vegetation during this season enhances visibility for wildlife spotting.

The Worst Time to Visit Zambia

The least favorable time to visit Zambia would be from December to April, characterized by the highest rainfall, especially in the northern regions of the country. This period, which marks the rainy season, can restrict outdoor activities due to persistent and occasionally heavy showers. Flooding is also a common occurrence in certain areas, which may hinder transportation and travel plans. Temperatures during these months range from 20°C (68°F) to 31°C (87.8°F).

Spring Weather in Zambia

In Zambia, spring unfolds between September and November. During this time, temperatures gradually rise from a pleasant 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall starts to increase, particularly in November, which marks the onset of the wet season. Although occasional showers occur, the weather remains largely dry, especially in the early part of spring. The vegetation begins to replenish, giving the landscape a vibrant, lush appearance.

Summer Weather in Zambia

Zambia's summer season spans December to February. These months correspond to the peak of the rainy season, with precipitation reaching upwards of 200mm (7.87") in some regions. Temperatures fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). Despite the rain, the high temperatures result in a humid atmosphere. While the increased rainfall replenishes the landscape, it can result in muddy conditions and potential flooding in certain areas.

Autumn Weather in Zambia

Autumn in Zambia extends from March to May. This period marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. Rainfall gradually decreases, with April and May experiencing significantly less precipitation. Average temperatures range from 18°C (64.4°F) in the cooler morning and evening hours to 29°C (84.2°F) during the afternoon. The landscape remains lush from the rains, and water levels in rivers and waterfalls are high, providing scenic views.

Winter Weather in Zambia

Winter in Zambia spans June to August. During this dry season, the weather is relatively cool and comfortable, with temperatures hovering between 14°C (57.2°F) and 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is minimal to none, leading to drier landscapes. The clear skies and mild temperatures make it an excellent time for outdoor activities such as game drives and walking safaris, although early morning and evening temperatures may require warmer clothing.

Weather in January

January in Zambia represents the mid-point of the rainy season, with precipitation peaking in this month. The country, as a whole, records an average rainfall of about 180mm (7.09") to 220mm (8.66"). However, rainfall varies regionally, with the northern regions of Zambia, such as the Copperbelt and Northern Provinces, receiving higher precipitation compared to the Southern Provinces. The weather is generally humid with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64.4°F) in the early morning to 28°C (82.4°F) during the afternoon. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As Zambia transitions through its rainy season, February typically brings a slight decrease in precipitation compared to January. However, it remains one of the wettest months of the year, with countrywide average rainfall between 160mm (6.3") and 200mm (7.87"). Weather in February »

Weather in March

March signals the commencement of the transition from the rainy season to the dry season in Zambia. Rainfall starts to decrease, with average precipitation ranging from 120mm (4.72") to 160mm (6.3") across the country. The northern regions, specifically the Luapula and Northern Provinces, still receive more rainfall than the southern regions, but the volume is significantly lower compared to February. The temperatures during March continue to fluctuate between 18°C (64.4°F) in the cooler morning and evening hours and around 29°C (84.2°F) during the peak afternoon heat. Weather in March »

Weather in April

In April, Zambia experiences a more marked decline in precipitation as the transition from the rainy to the dry season progresses. Average rainfall across the country decreases to between 30mm (1.18") and 50mm (1.97"), with the northern parts, including the Copperbelt and Northern Provinces, still receiving slightly more rainfall than the southern regions. Temperatures during April range from cooler averages of 16°C (60.8°F) in the morning and evening to warmer averages of 28°C (82.4°F) during the afternoon. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May signifies the commencement of the dry season in Zambia, with a drastic reduction in rainfall. The country experiences average precipitation between 5mm (0.2") and 10mm (0.39"), indicating a near-complete cessation of the rains. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June is characterized by a complete cessation of rainfall across Zambia, signaling a full immersion into the dry season. There is virtually no precipitation, making it one of the driest months of the year. The entire country, from the northernmost regions like the Northern Province to the southern areas, experiences this drought period. Temperatures in June start to fall noticeably, especially during the early mornings and evenings. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July continues the trend of the dry season in Zambia, experiencing almost no rainfall across the country. The lack of precipitation is consistent from the northern regions, such as the Copperbelt and Northern Provinces, down to the southern regions, making it one of the driest months of the year. Temperatures in July drop further, making it one of the coolest months in Zambia. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Zambia continues the trend of the dry season, with almost no rainfall throughout the country. The dry conditions persist from the northern regions to the southern areas, solidifying August's position as one of the driest months of the year. Temperatures in August start to rise slightly compared to July. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Zambia sees the dry season persisting, with virtually no rainfall across the country. Both the northern regions such as the Copperbelt Province and the southern regions experience these dry conditions, marking September as one of the driest months of the year. Temperatures in September continue to rise. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Zambia marks the peak of the dry season, with nearly no rainfall throughout the country. This dry condition is experienced uniformly across Zambia, from the northern areas like Muchinga Province to the southern regions, making October one of the driest months of the year. Temperatures in October continue to climb. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Zambia signifies the end of the dry season and the onset of the rainy season, with rainfall starting to make a reappearance. Rainfall averages range from 60mm (2.36") to 100mm (3.94") across the country, although the southern regions usually experience slightly less precipitation than the northern areas. Temperatures in November start to decrease, with morning and evening averages around 17°C (62.6°F), while daytime temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Zambia marks the firm establishment of the rainy season, with rainfall significantly increasing across the country. Rainfall averages from 150mm (5.91") to 250mm (9.84"), with the northern regions, such as the Northern and Copperbelt Provinces, generally experiencing more precipitation than the southern areas. Temperatures in December continue to decrease, with morning and evening averages around 16°C (60.8°F), while daytime temperatures hover around 27°C (80.6°F). Weather in December »
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