The climate of Chikwawa
Chikwawa,
Malawi, is classified under a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate according to the Köppen climate classification. This type of climate, referred to as 'Aw,' predominates the area. The climatic conditions in this geographical location are largely characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with more pronounced temperature variations throughout the year.
Over months, average high temperatures fluctuate between a low of 22.2°C (72°F) and a peak of 32°C (89.6°F). The seasons experience corresponding lows, with the coldest months dropping to 13°C (55.4°F) and warmer months recording up to 20.5°C (68.9°F). A significant range in temperatures, therefore, is expected throughout the year, with some hotter months showing high values of up to 32°C (89.6°F).
The region sees variation in rainfall throughout the year. The heaviest precipitation is observed in
January with 383mm (15.08"), while the month with the least rainfall is
August, recording a mere 3mm (0.12"). Humidity levels, on the other hand, experience a high of 88% in
March and a low of 47% in
September.
Chikwawa also observes differential daylight hours ranging from 11.2 hours in
June to 13.1 hours in
December. Accordingly, the amount of sunshine changes, with longer sunny hours during
October at 9.6 hours per day and shorter ones in
April at 6.7 hours per day.
One of the unique attributes of Chikwawa's weather pattern is the relation between rainfall and humidity. During high rainfall periods, the humidity level is noticeably high and decreases as rainfall reduces.
The best time to visit Chikwawa
For those planning a visit, the most favorable months are between
May and
July. During this period, the temperatures are relatively cool, ranging from 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 22.2°C (72°F). Furthermore, daylight hours extend from 11.2 hours to 11.3 hours. These conditions complement outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for tourist activities.
The worst time to visit Chikwawa
Unfavorable time to visit
Chikwawa often aligns with the heavy rainy months between
January and
March. This period is characterized by high humidity levels, which record up to 88%. Heavy rainfall of up to 383mm (15.08") also causes a reduction in visibility to 7km (4.3mi), affecting sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Chikwawa
Between
September and
November, Spring in
Chikwawa experiences a gradual increase in high temperatures from 26.2°C (79.2°F) to 31.3°C (88.3°F). During these months, low temperatures also rise from 14.8°C (58.6°F) to 20.5°C (68.9°F). The amount of rainfall increases from 3mm (0.12") in September to 117mm (4.61") in November. These conditions reveal a transitioning climate from relatively cooler to warmer weather.
Summer weather in Chikwawa
December to
February represents Summer for
Chikwawa. During these months, the high temperatures range from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 32°C (89.6°F). Low temperatures, on the other hand, hold steady at about 20.5°C (68.9°F). With
January receiving the highest rainfall of 383mm (15.08"), the season is mostly wet. The visibility during this season reduces to 7km (4.3mi).
Autumn weather in Chikwawa
Autumn -
March through
May - in
Chikwawa experiences declining temperatures from 26.3°C (79.3°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F). Low temperatures range from 18.4°C (65.1°F) to 13.3°C (55.9°F). Rainfall decreases significantly during these months starting from 208mm (8.19") in March to only 10mm (0.39") by May. The daylight hours reduce gradually from 12.2 hours to 11.2 hours, indicating the approaching winter.
Winter weather in Chikwawa
Winter spans from
June to
August. High temperatures during these cooler months vary from 22.2°C (72°F) to 26.2°C (79.2°F), while low temperatures go from 13°C (55.4°F) to 14.8°C (58.6°F). Notably, these months receive minimal rainfall, with
July and August only receiving 10mm (0.39") and 3mm (0.12"), respectively. The days are relatively short during this season, with daylight hours ranging from 11.2 hours to 11.6 hours.
Weather in January
The beginning of the year in
Chikwawa,
Malawi, greets with high humidity and frequent rainfall. The city experiences its maximum average rainfall amounting to 383mm (15.08") in
January, with almost daily showers expected. January's weather draws a stark contrast to the city's dry season, with residents often bundled in layers due to the drop in temperatures.
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
February, a slight reduction in rainfall occurs, although showers still remain common throughout the month. Noticeably, the difference in average high and low temperatures tightens from 27°C (80.6°F) to 19.3°C (66.7°F) respectively.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March rolls in, the weather commences a gradual transition towards the dry season in
Chikwawa,
Malawi. Humidity decreases slightly and rainfall reduces to 208mm (8.19"), signaling the end of the heavy rainy season. The slight increase in sunshine hours coupled with a moderate UV index of 6 can make outdoor activities under the skies more appealing.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April presents with the most noticeable alterations in weather patterns in
Chikwawa,
Malawi, with rainfall drastically decreasing to 44mm (1.73"). Temperatures start to drop and the city moves closer to its dry, chilly season. Residents experience longer sunshine hours and clearing skies, rendering a break in the largely overcast weather of previous months.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May marks the true beginning of the dry season with a significant drop in humidity and an average of 10mm (0.39") rainfall in
Chikwawa,
Malawi. A more open sky allows for an increase in daylight hours and visibility extends to an average of 7km (4.3mi).
Weather in May » Weather in June
By the time
June arrives,
Chikwawa,
Malawi is firmly in its dry season with the relative humidity dropping to 78%. While the rainfall remains minimal to 11mm (0.43"), cooler temperatures prevail. Daylight is slightly less as compared to the previous month but ample sunshine ensures warmer days.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July experiences an all-year low in temperatures and rainfall with only 10mm (0.39") showers through the month. Although temperatures are considerably cooler, balmy and dry mid-day weather can invite a beach visit in
Chikwawa,
Malawi.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the trend of the dry season in
Chikwawa,
Malawi, with virtually negligible rain of only 3mm (0.12"). The transition from winter to spring begins as mild warm breezes start sweeping the city. The days are longer and filled with sunshine, an indication of the upcoming warmer months.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Welcome changes arrive in
September, with the warmth starting to return to
Chikwawa,
Malawi. Incidentally, it becomes the hottest month with the mercury soaring to an average high temperature of 30.6°C (87.1°F). Despite the temperatures rising rapidly, rainfall is minimal but noticeably higher than the previous month at 6mm (0.24").
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October, the temperatures continue to rise while the wind speed averages at a maximum of 8.4km/h (5.2mph). The balmy days are highly suitable for venturing outdoors and soaking in the Malawian sun. While the humidity remains on the lower side, a slight increase in rainfall to 29mm (1.14") brings some respite from the heat.
Weather in October »Weather in November
As
November sets in, the transition towards the wet season starts as rainfall increases to 117mm (4.61"). Temperatures remain favorable with slightly cooler nights. As the sun begins to take a back seat, overcast skies dominate the majority of the days.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the onset of the rainy season in
Chikwawa,
Malawi, with an average rainfall of 302mm (11.89"). The city receives increased cloud cover and higher chances of daily rainfall. Whirling winds add to the chilly feel of the weather with a decrease in sunlight hours.
Weather in December »