The climate of Mtwara
Mtwara,
Tanzania falls under the Köppen climate classification 'Aw', recognized as Tropical wet and dry or savanna. Situated in the south-eastern region of the country, the town experiences relatively consistent climatic conditions that rise and fall subtly throughout the year.
In a typical year, the temperature in Mtwara varies between 19°C (66.2°F) to 31°C (87.8°F). It showcases a rather consistent pattern with no extraordinary spikes or drops. The highest average temperatures are registered between
January to
April, and
October to
December. The lowest average temperatures are noticeable from
June to
September.
Rainfall fluctuates considerably. Mtwara receives the maximum rainfall from January to April, with the peak in
March reporting an average rainfall of 199mm (7.83"). Conversely, the least amount of rainfall is discerned from
May to September, with
July and
August each recording as low as 16mm (0.63").
Interestingly, the temperature of the sea hovers between 25.7°C (78.3°F) to 29.7°C (85.5°F), reaching its peak in March, which marks it as an ideal destination for water-based activities. The fluctuation in daylight hours is minimal, from a low of 11.5 hours in June to a high of 12.7 hours in January and December.
The best time to visit Mtwara
Considering weather parameters such as reduced rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and extended daylight hours, the period from
May to
September emerges as the best time to visit
Mtwara. During this period, the town receives minimal rainfall and relatively cooler temperatures range from 19°C (66.2°F) to 30°C (86°F). Additionally, these months witness around 9 to 10 hours of sunshine daily, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration.
The worst time to visit Mtwara
Visiting
Mtwara between
January and
April might be less recommended, as this period encounters the heaviest rainfall, up to 199mm (7.83"), coupled with relatively high temperatures extending to 31°C (87.8°F). This season also has shorter periods of sunshine, around 6 to 7 hours daily which may limit outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Mtwara
The spring months of
March to
May in
Mtwara are marked by a gradual decline in temperatures from 31°C (87.8°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). This period sees a mixed bag of heavy to moderate rainfall, with March experiencing the highest average rainfall of 199mm (7.83"), which drops substantially to 63mm (2.48") in May.
Summer weather in Mtwara
Mtwara's summer spans from
June to
August. During this period, the town witnesses its lowest temperatures, hovering between 19°C (66.2°F) to 29°C (84.2°F). The rainfall reduces significantly during these months, recording a minimal 16mm (0.63") to 17mm (0.67"), which is the least throughout the year.
Autumn weather in Mtwara
The autumn months of
September to
November in
Mtwara are characterized by gradually increasing temperatures from 30°C (86°F) to 31°C (87.8°F). The rainfall also begins to rise steadily from 15mm (0.59") in September to 56mm (2.2") in November.
Winter weather in Mtwara
Winter in
Mtwara, from
December to
February, witnesses a significant increase in rainfall, reaching up to 172mm (6.77") in
January. The average daily temperatures range between 31°C (87.8°F) at the high end and 23°C (73.4°F) to 24°C (75.2°F) at the lower limit. However, the increase in sea temperature to 28.8°C (83.8°F) in December and 29.1°C (84.4°F) in February makes Mtwara an inviting place for water enthusiasts.
Weather in January
As
Mtwara,
Tanzania welcomes
January, the city experiences prominent weather patterns, starting off with a relatively high temperature and continued rainfall. Of note, the rain can measure up to 199mm (7.83") during the month, accompanied by the highest UV index rating of 12, making the city quite humid and damp.
Weather in January »Weather in February
In comparison to
January,
February experiences a slight decrease in rain, bringing about more dry days. Weather in
Mtwara,
Tanzania is predominantly characterized by relatively hot day temperatures, coupled with comfortably cool nights.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March sees a small spike in rain levels, going up to 196mm (7.72"), as compared to the previous month. Thus, the weather of
Mtwara,
Tanzania becomes humid. Climate remains fairly unchanged, maintaining a typical warm tropical coastal demeanour.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
A slight drop in rainfall is noticeable as
April welcomes drier days. Still,
Mtwara,
Tanzania experiences humid conditions due to the remaining rainfall. The city enjoys a pleasant tropical climate during the day while the nights remain comfortably cool as seen in the previous months.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Transitioning into
May,
Mtwara,
Tanzania embraces a significant plunge in rainfall, receiving merely 63mm (2.48") all month. Minimal rainfall coupled with cool nights and warm days contribute to a favorable climate. Sunny hours extend, resulting in longer daylight, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings about the year's driest month in
Mtwara,
Tanzania, counting only 17mm (0.67") of rain. Daily sunshine hours peak, maximizing the amount of daylight. This decrease in rain and increase in sun promotes outdoor tourism and adventurous activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Continuing the weather trend from
June, the rainfall in
July remains low, marking the continuation of the dry season in
Mtwara,
Tanzania. Sunny daylight persists, providing an inviting atmosphere for sightseeing and exploration. Despite the sea temperature dropping further, the city's coastal activities keep ongoing.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August sees the rain levels in
Mtwara,
Tanzania, continuing to stay low. The overall climate of the city remains consistent with its preceding month, maintaining its warm, dry nature. The sea continues to cool down slightly, adding a breezy charm to the coastal activities.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September heralds a subtle shift in weather, maintaining a similarly dry pattern with slightly increased rainfall, up to 15mm (0.59"). Distinct conditions in
Mtwara,
Tanzania remain consistent with the preceding months marked by enduring hot days and cool nights.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings with it a slight increase in rainfall as compared to
September, receiving about 28mm (1.1") throughout the month. Even though
Mtwara,
Tanzania experiences this uptick in moisture, the weather remains fairly dry. Beach activities and watersports participation increase due to a corresponding rise in sea temperature.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The weather in
Mtwara,
Tanzania takes a noticeable turn in
November, experiencing higher rainfall measuring up to 56mm (2.2"). Despite this increase, the weather still maintains its overall characteristic tropical warmth. Daily sunshine hours begin to decline, leading to reduced daylight.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Mtwara,
Tanzania, closes the year with
December witnessing a significant rise in rainfall rates, receiving up to 153mm (6.02"). Corresponding to the increase in rainfall, the number of rainfall days also spikes up to 17, making it one of the rainiest months in the city.
Weather in December »