December weather forecast
Chipata, Zambia

December in Chipata heralds the full-throttle onslaught of the rainy season with frequent rainfall and further drops in temperature. The weather conditions largely reflect November's, only with higher frequency and volume of rainfall. The transition into the New Year maintains December's weather pattern, albeit with slightly lower temperatures and marginally more rainfall. December takes the crown as the rainiest month, racking up a whopping 217mm (8.54") of precipitation. It is the combination of the heavy rains and high humidity of 75% that grants December its consistent and characteristic wet climate.

Temperature

The average high-temperature slightly decreases in December, shifting from a hot 31.5°C (88.7°F) in November to a moderately hot 28.3°C (82.9°F). During the December nights, an average temperature of 19.3°C (66.7°F) is observed.

Heat index

The average heat index in December is estimated at a hot 32°C (89.6°F). Persistent activity under exposure might lead to a feeling of weariness, with subsequent heat cramps.
Be advised, the heat index considers values for conditions in shade and with a light breeze. Facing direct sunlight may hike up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'real feel', marries air temperature and humidity to produce a value illustrating perceived warmth. Additional elements encompassing metabolic differences, the degree of physical activity, and attire can impact the individual's perception of temperature. Being aware that direct sunlight can impact the felt heat might mean an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Kids are generally in more danger than adults because they perspire less. Their large skin surface area compared to their small bodies and the excessive heat due to their actions raises their risk.

Humidity

In December, the average relative humidity is 75%.

Rainfall

In December, the rain falls for 27.8 days. Throughout December, 195mm (7.68") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 160.6 rainfall days, and 873mm (34.37") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

December has the longest days of the year, with an average of 12h and 54min of daylight.
On the first day of December in Chipata, sunrise is at 05:12 and sunset at 18:04. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:25 and sunset at 18:20 CAT.

Sunshine

In Chipata, the average sunshine in December is 9.9h.

UV index

The months with the lowest UV index are January, April through June and December, with an average maximum UV index of 5. A UV Index estimate of 3 to 5 represents a medium health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The UV index of 5 during December translates into the following guidance:
Heed the precautions - Protecting the skin and eyes from damage is compulsory. Avoiding direct sunlight during midday hours helps reduce the risk from intense UV radiation. Sunglasses that ward off UVA and UVB rays play a pivotal role in reducing solar eye damage.