Introduction
Katumba is a fascinating town in Tanzania, located in the Rungwe District of the Mbeya Region. It's one of the most populated towns in the region and holds a significant place in the country's economy. But what truly sets Katumba apart is its distinctive weather and climate, which contributes to its unique charm and appeal.
General Climate and Weather of Katumba, Tanzania
In Katumba, the climate is generally defined as tropical. The town experiences significant seasonal variation in monthly rainfall throughout the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 30th percentile for pleasant weather compared to tourist destinations worldwide.
Temperature
The temperature in Katumba varies considerably throughout the year. The cooler season lasts from June 4 to September 2, with an average daily high temperature below 75°F. The hottest period is often seen from September to March, with temperatures occasionally reaching up to 85°F.
Rainfall
As for precipitation, it varies significantly over the year. The rain in Katumba falls mostly in the warm season, with relatively little rain in the cooler season. The most rain falls during the 31 days centered around February 22, with an average total accumulation of 7.4 inches.
Monthly Climate Breakdown
Below is a detailed breakdown of Katumba's climate through the year:
- January - March: These are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching up to 85°F. Rainfall is common, especially in the latter half of February and early March.
- April - June: The temperature starts to drop gradually with the onset of the cooler season. Rainfall is less frequent.
- July - September: These are the coolest months, with temperatures dropping below 75°F. Rainfall is rare during this period.
- October - December: The temperature starts to rise again, and the chances of rainfall increase towards the end of the year.
Weather Patterns and Influences
The weather patterns in Katumba, like much of Tanzania, are influenced by the Indian Ocean monsoon winds. These winds contribute to the seasonal rainfall patterns seen throughout the year. The "kusi," or southeast monsoon, brings the long rains from April to June, while the "kaskazi," or northeast monsoon, brings the shorter rains from November to December.
Conclusion
Understanding the climate and weather of Katumba, Tanzania, is essential for planning any trip or activity in the region. The unique weather patterns, influenced by geographical location and monsoon winds, make this town a fascinating place to explore. Whether you're a local or a tourist, knowing what to expect from Katumba's climate will help you make the most of your time in this vibrant Tanzanian town.
References
- Climate-data.org. (n.d.). Climate: Katumba - Climate graph, Temperature graph, Climate table. Retrieved from https://en.climate-data.org/location/2758/
- Weather Spark. (2020, October 13). Average Weather in Katumba Tanzania, Year Round - Weather Spark. Retrieved from https://weatherspark.com/y/104191/Average-Weather-in-Katumba-Tanzania-Year-Round
A - Katumba's Latitude is -9.233330 & Longitude is 33.616669.
A - Weather in Katumba is 25° today.
A - Climate Conditions in Katumba shows light rain today.
A - Humidity in Katumba is 56% today.
A - Wind speed in Katumba is 6.73 km/h, flowing at 149° wind direction. today.