The climate of Orapa
Orapa,
Botswana, is characterized by a BSh, or Subtropical Steppe, climate according to the Köppen climate classification. This gives the city a semi-arid weather coupled with tropical influences. From
January, the temperatures kick off with highs of 31.7°C (89.1°F), which gradually lowers and hits 24°C (75.2°F) by
July. The lows, however, start from 22.7°C (72.9°F) in January and steadily decline to 11.6°C (52.9°F) in the same period.
Examining the rainfall pattern, it is obvious that precipitation is limited but not absent. January harbours the highest rainfall which reduces significantly in the subsequent months, and only records about 1mm (0.04") from
May to
August. However, the rains pick up towards the end of the year. Between January and
December, the humidity ranges from a high of 56% to a lowest point of 24%.
Similarly, daylight duration sees a range from 13.4 hours to 10.8 hours. Correspondingly, the UV Index ranges from 8 in
October to 5 between
June and July. It is important to note that despite the daylight and radiation variations, cloud cover is usually at 30% or below across the year.
The best time to visit Orapa
The best time to visit
Orapa greatly depends on what one hopes to achieve or experience. However, it is undeniable that the stretch from
May to
September, when the temperatures are generally more pleasant (between 24.6°C (76.3°F) and 28.3°C (82.9°F)) and rainfall is at 2mm (0.08") or less, offers the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Additionally, the cloud cover is at its lowest, allowing for clear sky views.
The worst time to visit Orapa
Typically,
January and
December could be the least favorable period for a visit, due to it being the wettest months. The rainfall sees 73mm (2.87") and 74mm (2.91") respectively during this period. Coupled with the high heat - with temperatures soaring up to 31.7°C (89.1°F) and 32.5°C (90.5°F) respectively, the weather of
Orapa might not be the most comfortable during this time.
Spring weather in Orapa
Transitioning from the warmer months, Spring in
Orapa witnesses a drop in temperature from the monthly high of 30.9°C (87.6°F) in
March to 27.4°C (81.3°F) in
May. Similarly, the monthly lows move from 21.1°C (70°F) in March to 15.6°C (60.1°F) in May. The rainfall decreases markedly in this period, dropping to the 1mm (0.04") mark in May.
Summer weather in Orapa
Summer in
Orapa is relatively dry and it spans across
June to
August. The temperature fluctuates between a high of 24°C (75.2°F) in
July and 28.3°C (82.9°F) in August. The low temperature too sees a movement from 12.4°C (54.3°F) in June to 14.3°C (57.7°F) in August. Notably, the rainfall during this period is at its least, with measurements not exceeding 2mm (0.08").
Autumn weather in Orapa
September marks the start of the autumn season and temperatures rise slightly in this period. The highest temperature increases from 32.7°C (90.9°F) in September to 35.2°C (95.4°F) in
October while the lowest temperature ranges from 18.2°C (64.8°F) to 21.8°C (71.2°F) in the same period. Equally, the rainfall in September is a mere 1mm (0.04"), but begins to rise in October reaching 7mm (0.28").
Winter weather in Orapa
Winter in
Orapa runs from
November to
February. During these months, the highest temperature alternates from 33.9°C (93°F) in November and drops to 31.3°C (88.3°F) in February. Conversely, the lowest temperature is 23.4°C (74.1°F) in November and moves slightly up to 21.8°C (71.2°F) in February. Winter is characteristically wet with November witnessing 42mm (1.65") of rainfall and February recording 87mm (3.43").
Weather in January
Orapa,
Botswana greets the year with relatively high temperatures and a moisture-laden atmosphere, setting the stage for considerable rainfall events.
January experiences the highest collective precipitation for the year, recording a notable 73mm (2.87"), most of which is seen within a span of 16.6 days.
Weather in January » Weather in February
The weather in
February sees a continuation of the patterns observed in
January, albeit with reduced rainfall and somewhat lower temperatures.
Orapa experiences a slight decrease in precipitation, with conditions remaining largely consistent compared to the preceding month.
Weather in February »Weather in March
A noticeable change in the weather occurs as
March provides a more substantial drop in rainfall, leading to sunnier and drier conditions in
Orapa. Be aware that the UV index remains at 7 this month, making sun protection necessary.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With the onset of
April, further drops in rainfall and temperature create a cooler and drier climate. Compared to
March, reductions in these key elements are sharper, signaling a seasonal transition in
Orapa. The UV index dips to 6, but sun protection remains essential during peak daylight hours.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May witnesses the onset of a true dry spell in
Orapa, with virtually negligible rainfall as indicated by a mere 1mm (0.04") of precipitation. Concurrently, the temperature continues its downward descent, bringing further relief from the earlier heat experienced in the year.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings continued dryness and cooler temperatures, adding distinct sharpness to the overall weather profile. From 12.8km/h (8mph) in
May, wind speeds see a slight rise, stirring the atmosphere with an invigorating chill. The plummeting humidity underscores the sensory perception of the coolness in the weather.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The coldest month in
Orapa,
July, comes with its unique appeal, courtesy of the steady drop in temperature and persistent dry conditions. The mercury slips further, displaying a low of 11.6°C (52.9°F), amplifying the wintry feel in this region.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August remains within the cold season but begins to show signs of an upward temperature transition. The weather conditions remain largely steady, reflecting the trends from
July. The absolute lack of rainfall keeps the continuity of the dry spell intact.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Orapa's weather pattern undergoes visible changes in
September, signaling the imminent arrival of the warmer season. The mercury takes an upward turn, hinting at the retreat of the colder stretch. Simultaneously, wind speeds pick up, maintaining an average of 15.2km/h (9.4mph).
Weather in September »
Weather in October
The city of
Orapa fully embraces the warmer season in
October. The shift in weather is clear, palpable due to the significant rise in the average temperature. Yet, rainfall maintains its minimal state, with precipitation cleverly avoiding the incrementing conditions.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November brings with it milder temperature changes, while the increase in precipitation strikes a balance between the weather elements. Rainfall increases substantially to 42mm (1.65"), setting the stage for the impending rainy season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December, a notable climb in rainfall and a subtle rise in temperature define the weather in
Orapa. The year rounds off with conditions that mirror those of
January, reinstating the rainfall cycle. Humidity takes an upward turn, adding a moist tinge to the prevalent warmth.
Weather in December »