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Contents
- The climate of Butare
- The best time to visit Butare
- The worst time to visit Butare
- Spring weather in Butare
- Summer weather in Butare
- Autumn weather in Butare
- Winter weather in Butare
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Butare
Butare, nestled within the hilly Rwanda landscape, experiences a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate, identified by the Köppen classification system as Aw. This classification can be verified by the regular pattern of the town's weather: highs tend to remain in the range of 21.3°C (70.3°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F) and lows slightly fluctuating between 12.8°C (55°F) and 15.5°C (59.9°F) through the year. Humidity levels staying within a relatively narrow range from 58% to 88% provide a tangible indicator of this climate category as well.
Rainfall in Butare maintains a distinctive pattern throughout the year, with an annual peak reaching approximately 158mm (6.22") in October and a trough dropping to 17mm (0.67") in July. Days of precipitation follow a similar trend, swinging from a minimum of 10.5 days in July to a harsh 28.9 days in December.
Butare’s daylight hours are relatively stable at around 12 hours throughout the year, fluctuating only marginally. The duration of sunshine, however, varies more considerably, reaching its zenith at 19.3 days in July. Given Butare's tropical geographical location, the town's UV index stands at 5 uniformly across the months.
Rainfall in Butare maintains a distinctive pattern throughout the year, with an annual peak reaching approximately 158mm (6.22") in October and a trough dropping to 17mm (0.67") in July. Days of precipitation follow a similar trend, swinging from a minimum of 10.5 days in July to a harsh 28.9 days in December.
Butare’s daylight hours are relatively stable at around 12 hours throughout the year, fluctuating only marginally. The duration of sunshine, however, varies more considerably, reaching its zenith at 19.3 days in July. Given Butare's tropical geographical location, the town's UV index stands at 5 uniformly across the months.
The best time to visit Butare
Peak travel season in Butare falls between June and August, with July distinguishing itself as an ideal month due to several favorable weather conditions. A combination of low precipitation, minimally at 17mm (0.67"), shorter duration of it at just 10.5 days, together with a reduced relative humidity of 64% makes for a pleasant overall weather climate. Additionally, the longer sunshine period - at its yearly high of 19.3 days - enhances outdoor activity possibilities.
The worst time to visit Butare
Visiting Butare during the months of October through December is arguably the least desirable. During this period, rainfall peaks at 158mm (6.22"), with November and December matching this high level. Torrential rain comes in at more days as well, with 27.5 to 28.9 days of precipitation. Relative humidity rises as well in these months, to an uncomfortable 83% range.
Spring weather in Butare
Spring in Butare, from March to May, displays a transition in the weather. March witnesses from 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 14°C (57.2°F) with 81% humidity and a relatively high rainfall of 125mm (4.92") over 27.3 days. As spring transitions into May, temperatures experience a slight decrease to between 21.3°C (70.3°F) and 13.3°C (55.9°F), with precipitation peaking to 129mm (5.08") over 26.1 days and humidity ascending to a peak of 88%.
Summer weather in Butare
Summer in Butare maintains a distinct climatic pattern from June to August. Temperature highs and lows maintain a relatively flat range from 21.8°C (71.2°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F) and 12.8°C (55°F) to 14.8°C (58.6°F), respectively. The most noticeable change lies in the near-absence of rainfall in July, dropping to a mere 17mm (0.67") over 10.5 days. Humidity experiences a marked decrease, going down to 64% in July from the sticky 79% in June.
Autumn weather in Butare
The autumn season in Butare from September to November, records the most dramatic weather fluctuations of the year. Rainfall begins to rise sharply in September to 79mm (3.11") and by November, it has almost doubled to 152mm (5.98"). The number of rainy days correspondingly increases, up to 27.5 days in November from 20.7 in September. The humidity likewise follows an upward trend, reaching a hefty 83% by November.
Winter weather in Butare
Compared to other seasons, winter in Butare is relatively mild and identifiable by distinctly high levels of rainfall and humidity. From December to February, the rainfall is consistently high, falling within a range of 144mm (5.67") to 108mm (4.25"). The number of rainy days typically exceeds 25 per month. On an upside, temperatures remain comfortably between 22.6°C (72.7°F) and 24°C (75.2°F) during highs and from 14.3°C (57.7°F) to 14.6°C (58.3°F) during lows. It is worth noting, however, that humidity levels remain high, hovering around 80%.
Weather in January
Beginning the year in Butare, Rwanda, the weather in January presents a combination of warm temperatures and elevated humidity levels. Less sunshine is seen during the day with increased cloud cover. Gusts could reach up to 8km/h (5mph), creating a moderate breeze. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February continues the weather trend of January in Butare, although there is a subtle decrease in average daily temperature and humidity levels. This month retains the characteristics of the previous month in terms of rainfall and cloud coverage. Weather in February »
Weather in March
Transitioning into March, the weather in Butare exhibits marginal change, with negligible increase in temperature. This month has the highest rainfall in the first quarter, with about 125mm (4.92") spread over 27.3 days. This increase in rainy days contributes to a more active cloud formation, which subsequently affects the visibility. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April weather in Butare witnesses another increase in rainfall to around 129mm (5.08"), albeit over fewer days compared to March, totaling 26.1 days. Even though the amount of cloud cover slightly increases, its effect on daylight is negligible. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In May, weather conditions in Butare show a shift. The amount of rainfall notably decreases, with 97mm (3.82") recorded and spread over 25 days. There is a noticeable dip in the highest average temperature to 21.3°C (70.3°F), the lowest so far this year. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in a significant drop in rainfall to 43mm (1.69"), marking the onset of the dry season in Butare. The amount of sunshine during daytime increases, and the skies are less cloudy. Consequently, there is an increase in visibility and wind speed. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July brings the driest month of the year in Butare, with the lowest average rainfall of only 17mm (0.67"), the least for the city. Cloud cover is at its minimum, and the city enjoys increased hours of sunshine. There is, however, a moderate increase in wind speeds and gusts. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Moving into August, the weather in Butare sees slight changes. Rainfall starts to climb, with an average of 25mm (0.98"), heralding the end of the dry season. There is an increase in minimum average temperature to 14.8°C (58.6°F). Weather in August »
Weather in September
In September, the weather undergoes a dramatic shift. Rainfall increases significantly, marking the beginning of the second wet season with 79mm (3.11") of rain spread across 20.7 days. The maximum gust speed drops slightly, indicating calmer winds. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October features another jump in rainfall, reaching 158mm (6.22") over 27 days, the most so far since April. As the second highest rainfall month of the year, October depicts a wet and highly humid cityscape. Despite rain-soaked conditions, temperatures remain stable with an increase in cloud cover. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In November, the weather in Butare becomes even more humid. Rainfall is still high at 152mm (5.98"), slightly less than that in October, and spread across 27.5 days. The month is characterized by a stable temperature range and consistent pressure patterns. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December provides a fitting end to the year in Butare with consistent weather conditions. Rainfall drops slightly to 144mm (5.67") thereby marking a gradual shift towards drier days. Skies remain mainly cloudy, reducing the amount of daily sunshine. Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 27, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Butare?
In Butare, during the entire year, the rain falls for 272.8 days and collects up to 1185mm (46.65") of precipitation.
When is the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What are the months with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the coldest time of year?
During the coldest month in Butare, May, temperatures average a high of 21.3°C (70.3°F) and a low of 13.3°C (55.9°F).
What is the most humid month?
The most humid month is May, with an average relative humidity of 88%.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
May has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.8h of sunshine.
What is the month with the shortest days?
The month with the shortest days is June, with an average of 12h and 0min of daylight.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 10.5 days and typically collects 17mm (0.67") of precipitation.
What is the hottest time of year in Butare?
August, with its average high-temperature of 24.8°C (76.6°F) and an average low-temperature of 14.8°C (58.6°F), holds the record as the warmest month.
What is the least humid month?
The least humid month is August, with an average relative humidity of 58%.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is September, with an average of 10.3h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 27 days and typically aggregates up to 158mm (6.22") of precipitation.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 12h and 18min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
Butare does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). CAT timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Butare, Rwanda
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (24.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is May (21.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is October (15.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is June (12.8°C).
Average pressure
Butare, Rwanda
- Average pressure in January:
1013.3mbar - Average pressure in February:
1012.7mbar - Average pressure in March:
1013.2mbar - Average pressure in April:
1013.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in June:
1016mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1015.6mbar - Average pressure in August:
1014.6mbar - Average pressure in September:
1014mbar - Average pressure in October:
1013mbar - Average pressure in November:
1013mbar - Average pressure in December:
1013.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is June (1016mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1012.7mbar).
Average wind speed
Butare, Rwanda
- Average wind speed in January:
5.2km/h - Average wind speed in February:
5.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
5km/h - Average wind speed in April:
4.8km/h - Average wind speed in May:
5.3km/h - Average wind speed in June:
6.2km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
7.3km/h - Average wind speed in August:
7.2km/h - Average wind speed in September:
6.6km/h - Average wind speed in October:
5.9km/h - Average wind speed in November:
4.7km/h - Average wind speed in December:
4.4km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is July (7.3km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is December (4.4km/h).
Average humidity
Butare, Rwanda
The month with the highest relative humidity is May (88%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (58%).
Average rainfall
Butare, Rwanda
- Average rainfall in January:
108mm - Average rainfall in February:
108mm - Average rainfall in March:
125mm - Average rainfall in April:
129mm - Average rainfall in May:
97mm - Average rainfall in June:
43mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (158mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (17mm).
Average rainfall days
Butare, Rwanda
- Average rainfall days in January:
25.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
24.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
27.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
26.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
25 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
20.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
27 days - Average rainfall days in November:
27.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
28.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (28.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is July (10.5 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Butare, Rwanda
- Average daylight in January:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
12h and 2min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 12h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
8h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
10h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is September (Average sunshine: 10h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 7h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Butare, Rwanda
- Average sunshine days in January:
4.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
2.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
3.7 days - Average sunshine days in April:
3.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
4.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
10.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
19.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
8.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
3.8 days - Average sunshine days in November:
2.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
1.8 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (19.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is December (1.8 days).
Average UV index
Butare, Rwanda
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Butare, Rwanda
The months with the most cloud cover are April and May (Cloud cover 50).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 23).
Average visibility
Butare, Rwanda
The months with the highest visibility are July, August and September (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are April and May (7km).
Butare, Rwanda
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