Weather in Kahama

Overview

Kahama, a vibrant town located in the Shinyanga Region of Tanzania, is known for its vast agricultural and mineral resources. The town experiences a tropical savannah climate, characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Understanding the climate and weather patterns in Kahama is crucial for planning travel, agricultural activities, and mining operations.

Climate Classification

Kahama falls under the Köppen climate classification 'Aw,' which indicates a tropical wet and dry or savannah climate. This classification is characterized by a pronounced dry season during the winter months and a significant wet season during the summer months.

Seasons and Temperatures

The average annual temperature in Kahama is approximately 23.6°C (74.5°F). The temperature rarely drops below 15°C (59°F) or rises above 32°C (90°F). The town has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season typically extends from June to October. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 27°C (80.6°F) to 31°C (87.8°F) while the lowest average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (62.6°F).

The wet season generally lasts from November to May. The average high temperatures during this period range from 28°C (82.4°F) to 33°C (91.4°F) while the lowest average temperatures range from 17°C (62.6°F) to 19°C (66.2°F).

Annual Rainfall

Kahama receives significant rainfall throughout the year, with the highest precipitation observed during the wet season. The average annual rainfall is approximately 990 mm.

The wet season sees the highest rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 60 mm to 190 mm. The peak rainfall occurs in December and March, with an average precipitation of about 190 mm.

In contrast, the dry season receives the least rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 0 mm to 60 mm. The driest month is typically July, with an average precipitation of 0 mm.

Humidity and Sunshine

The average annual relative humidity in Kahama is approximately 65%. The humidity levels are generally higher during the wet season due to increased precipitation. On average, Kahama enjoys about 8 hours of sunshine per day, translating to approximately 2,920 hours of sunshine annually.

Wind Speed and Direction

The average annual wind speed in Kahama is around 10 km/h (6.2 mph). The wind generally blows from the southeast throughout the year. However, the wind direction occasionally shifts to the northeast during the months of January and February.

Conclusion

Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Kahama, Tanzania, can help in planning various activities such as travel, agriculture, and mining. The town enjoys a tropical savannah climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, consistent temperatures, significant annual rainfall, abundant sunshine, and moderate wind speeds. This climate supports the town's robust agricultural and mining activities, contributing to its economic growth and development.