A typical day in
Katima Mulilo in
January will greet locals and tourists with warmth as temperatures rest between highs of 31.3°C (88.3°F) and lows of 19.1°C (66.4°F). Pairing with these toasty conditions is a downpour of rainfall, coincidentally the most significant amount seen throughout the year. The aftermath of these showers beautifies this Namibian city with a rich humidity that hangs in the air. Despite the frequent rain, sunshine is a regular guest, with an average Ultraviolet (UV) index of 12, signifying the need for sun protection while stepping out during the day. Moving into
February, a similar weather trend is anticipated, with only a slight dip in rainfall.
Temperature
With January's advent, Katima Mulilo sees an average high-temperature of a tropical 31.3°C (88.3°F), subtly shifted from
December's 29.8°C (85.6°F). Katima Mulilo documents a substantial shift from daytime warmth, recording an average nighttime temperature of 19.1°C (66.4°F) in January.
Heat index
The heat index value during January is evaluated at a torrid 38°C (100.4°F). Exercise increased caution, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are potential hazards. Continuous activity could lead to heatstroke.
The standards for the heat index are set for locations in shade and under light breezes. Direct sunshine exposure could raise heat index values by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', combines air temperature and relative humidity to represent a human perceived temperature equivalent. Depending on the activity and the individual's heat perception, which may vary due to factors including wind, clothing, and metabolic variations, this effect remains subjective. You should know that direct sun exposure can heighten weather effects, potentially elevating the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Children often fail to understand the importance of rest and rehydration. Thirst is a late manifestation of dehydration - hence, it is crucial to stay hydrated, especially during ongoing physical activities.
To offset high temperatures, the human body releases sweat which, upon evaporation, cools it down. An increase in relative humidity retards evaporation, subsequently reducing the body's heat removal rate and leading to a sensation of being overly warm. Increasing body temperatures can be a precursor to dehydration if the body can't shed the extra heat.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in January is 68%.
Rainfall
The month with the most rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 15 days and typically aggregates up to 169mm (6.65") of precipitation.
Daylight
In January, the average length of the day is 13h and 2min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 05:51 and sunset at 19:00. On the last day of January, in Katima Mulilo, sunrise is at 06:09 and sunset at 19:02 CAT.
Sunshine
The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 6h of sunshine.
UV index
January through
March,
October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an extreme threat to health from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: A maximum UV index of 12 in January translates into the following recommendations:
Practice all-important precautions. Light skin people may get burned in less than 5 minutes. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., UV radiation is strongest. Make an effort to avoid direct sunlight during this time, remembering that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. Tightly woven clothing, when worn loosely, shields effectively against the Sun. One must apply and reapply generously an SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours or after an outdoor workout or swim.