Butare, Rwanda: A Comprehensive Guide to its Climate and Weather
Located in the Southern Province of Rwanda, Butare is a city distinguished by its temperate climate. The city experiences two distinct seasons: a lengthy wet season and a short dry season. The mean annual temperature is around 19.6°C (67.3°F), making Butare's climate one of the most pleasant in Rwanda. This comprehensive guide will delve into the details of Butare's climate and weather patterns throughout the year.
Climate Classification
Butare's climate is classified as Cwb by the Köppen-Geiger system, which represents a subtropical highland climate or an oceanic climate with dry winters. This type of climate is characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year and significant rainfall.
Temperature Overview
| Month | Max Temperature (°C) | Min Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 23.5 | 15.6 |
| February | 23.8 | 15.6 |
| March | 23.7 | 15.5 |
| April | 23.2 | 15.6 |
| May | 23.0 | 15.5 |
| June | 22.6 | 15.1 |
| July | 22.5 | 15.0 |
| August | 22.9 | 15.1 |
| September | 23.3 | 15.4 |
| October | 23.4 | 15.6 |
| November | 23.3 | 15.7 |
| December | 23.4 | 15.7 |
The table shows that the maximum temperature in Butare varies slightly throughout the year, with the warmest temperatures recorded from December to February. The minimum temperature also remains relatively steady year-round, with minor fluctuations.
Rainfall and Humidity
"In Butare, the annual rainfall is around 1057 mm. The city experiences a significant amount of rainfall during the year, even in the driest month."
The city experiences two rainy seasons: the long rains from mid-March to June and the short rains from September to December. The dry season is typically from June to September, although it can vary slightly from year to year. High humidity levels are a common feature in Butare, especially during the rainy seasons.
Conclusion
Butare's climate, characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall, contributes to its lush green landscapes and rich agricultural potential. Whether you're planning a visit or looking to understand more about this city's weather patterns, it's evident that Butare offers a unique blend of temperate and tropical elements that make its climate distinctly appealing.
References
- Climate-Data.org. (n.d.). Climate: Butare. Retrieved from https://en.climate-data.org/africa/rwanda/butare/butare-714506/
- Köppen, V. (1936). Das geographische System der Klimate. In Handbuch der Klimatologie. Berlin, Germany: Gebrüder Borntraeger.
A - Butare's Latitude is -2.596670 & Longitude is 29.739441.
A - Weather in Butare is 16° today.
A - Climate Conditions in Butare shows light rain today.
A - Humidity in Butare is 98% today.
A - Wind speed in Butare is 7.52 km/h, flowing at 245° wind direction. today.
