Climate and Weather in Kikwit, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Kikwit, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons throughout the year. The city is situated in the southwestern part of the country and has a population of over 400,000 people.
Temperature
Like many other tropical regions, Kikwit has relatively high temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature in the city is around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest months are usually December to February, with temperatures often reaching highs of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). The coolest months are June to August, with average temperatures ranging between 22 to 24 degrees Celsius (72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit).
The temperature in Kikwit remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with little variation between day and night. This is due to its proximity to the equator, which results in a relatively stable climate.
Rainfall
Kikwit experiences a distinct wet and dry season, typical of tropical savanna climates. The wet season in Kikwit lasts from October to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between November and April. During this period, the city receives an average annual rainfall of around 1,500 to 2,000 millimeters (59 to 79 inches).
The dry season, which runs from June to September, sees a significant decrease in rainfall. Precipitation during this period drops to around 50 to 100 millimeters (2 to 4 inches) per month. This dry season is characterized by sunny days and lower humidity levels.
Humidity
Kikwit has a relatively high humidity level throughout the year, with an average relative humidity ranging between 75 to 85 percent. The highest humidity is typically experienced during the wet season when the air is saturated with moisture. This can make the weather feel even hotter and more uncomfortable.
Climate Graph
Below is a climate graph representing the average monthly temperatures and rainfall in Kikwit:
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Avg. Temperature (°C) | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
Avg. Rainfall (mm) | 150 | 125 | 200 | 250 | 200 | 50 | 50 | 75 | 125 | 150 | 175 | 175 |
*The values in the table represent approximate averages and may vary from year to year.
Weather Hazards
Despite its generally pleasant climate, Kikwit is prone to occasional weather hazards, especially during the wet season. The heavy rainfall can lead to flooding in low-lying areas, causing disruption to daily life and infrastructure. It is important for residents and visitors to stay informed about weather alerts and take necessary precautions during periods of heavy rainfall.
Conclusion
Kikwit, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city experiences relatively high temperatures throughout the year, with little variation between day and night. The wet season lasts from October to May, with heavy rainfall between November and April. The dry season runs from June to September, characterized by lower precipitation and sunny days. Kikwit's climate, while generally pleasant, can pose challenges during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding.
A - Kikwit's Latitude is -5.040980 & Longitude is 18.816191.
A - Weather in Kikwit is 20° today.
A - Climate Conditions in Kikwit shows overcast clouds today.
A - Humidity in Kikwit is 98% today.
A - Wind speed in Kikwit is 1.12 km/h, flowing at 211° wind direction. today.