Nampula Weather Today

Nampula, Mozambique: Climate and Weather

Nampula is the capital city of the Nampula Province in Mozambique, located in the northeastern part of the country. It is known for its diverse culture, historical sites, and beautiful landscapes. Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Nampula can greatly enhance your travel experience and help you plan your activities accordingly.

Geographical Location

Nampula is situated at a latitude of 15.12°S and a longitude of 39.27°E. The city is located inland, approximately 25 kilometers from the Mozambique Channel coast. Its proximity to the Indian Ocean influences its climate and weather patterns.

Climate Classification

Nampula experiences a tropical savanna climate, classified as Aw according to the Köppen climate classification system. This means that the city has distinct wet and dry seasons throughout the year.

Temperature

The temperature in Nampula remains relatively high throughout the year, with minor fluctuations between seasons. The average high temperature ranges from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F), while the average low temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 22°C (72°F).

The hottest months are typically from October to March, with temperatures often reaching above 35°C (95°F). The coolest months are from June to August, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C (59°F).

Rainfall

Nampula experiences a distinct wet season and a dry season. The wet season lasts from November to April, while the dry season occurs from May to October.

The wettest months are from December to February when the city receives the majority of its annual rainfall. During this period, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are common, contributing to the lush vegetation and agricultural activities in the region.

The dry season, on the other hand, is characterized by lower rainfall and a decrease in humidity. The months of June, July, and August have the least rainfall, with occasional light showers or drizzles.

Humidity

Nampula experiences high levels of humidity throughout the year due to its proximity to the Indian Ocean. The average relative humidity ranges from 70% to 85%. The highest humidity is typically observed during the wet season when the air is saturated with moisture.

Wind Patterns

The prevailing winds in Nampula are influenced by the Indian Ocean. The southeast trade winds, known as the Southeast Monsoon, blow from May to October, bringing drier air from the interior of Africa. The reverse occurs from November to April when the northeast trade winds, known as the Northeast Monsoon, bring moist air from the Indian Ocean, resulting in the wet season.

Extreme Weather Events

Although Nampula is not prone to extreme weather events such as hurricanes or cyclones, it is occasionally affected by tropical storms and heavy rainfall. These weather events can result in localized flooding and disruption of transportation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nampula is during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers more comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer chances of rainfall. It is ideal for outdoor activities, exploring the city's historical sites, and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

Conclusion

Nampula's climate is characterized by a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city experiences high temperatures throughout the year, with the hottest months being from October to March. The wet season lasts from November to April, bringing heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, while the dry season occurs from May to October, offering lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Nampula can help visitors plan their trips more effectively and make the most of their time in this vibrant city.