The climate of Ndola
Ndola's climate presents a unique blend of balance and variation throughout the year. The weather conditions are typical of a Humid Subtropical dry winter region, as classified by the Köppen climate system under the label Cwa. Sitting in the southern hemisphere, this Zambian city has a unique climatic rollercoaster.
Taking a closer look at the temperature, for most of the year, Ndola experiences a warm climate. Looking at the lower end of the scale, minimum temperatures reach a cool 10°C (50°F) during the winter months, stretching from
June to
August. On the upper end, temperatures can peak at around 33.5°C (92.3°F) in the height of summer around
October - somewhat moderate, considering tropical norms.
In terms of rainfall, Ndola's distribution appears somewhat skewed. A stark contrast characterizes the rainy and dry seasons, with a complete absence of rainfall from June to
September. The wettest period extends from
December through
February, with monthly rainfall averaging 183mm (7.2"), 151mm (5.94") and 124mm (4.88") respectively.
A quick look at the relative humidity values unveils a clear pattern - the city becomes progressively less humid from
March, reaching its driest point in August, with relative humidity as low as 40%.
The best time to visit Ndola
If sunshine and clear skies are part of the agenda, the months of
June to
September prove to be the best time to visit
Ndola. With almost nonexistent rainfall, highest daylight hours reaching up to 12 hours in September, and minimum temperatures staying on the cooler side, these months offer a perfect blend of sun and comfort. This is further confirmed by an average of over 30 days of sunshine during these months, highest average visibility of 10km (6.2mi) and lowest cloud cover dipping to 4% in September.
The worst time to visit Ndola
Alternatively, if the objective is to avoid wet and humid conditions, then steering clear of
Ndola between
December to
February is advisable. These months starkly contrast the previously mentioned period, recording high relative humidity, often hovering around 90%, along with the city's highest average rainfall of between 124mm (4.88") to 183mm (7.2"). Visiting Ndola during this period could potentially mean dealing with an average of 26 rainy days in
January.
Spring weather in Ndola
Spring in
Ndola spreads from
September to
November. With temperatures ranging from 16.5°C (61.7°F) to 33.5°C (92.3°F), visitors can enjoy moderately warm weather. The rainfall makes its first appearance since
May, increasing gradually from null in September to a noticeable 82mm (3.23") by November. Average daylight hours hover around the 12-hour mark, with the UV index slowly subsiding from 7 in September to 6 in November.
Summer weather in Ndola
Summer in
Ndola, which stretches from
December to
February, is a period of high rainfall and relative humidity. With rainfall peaking at 183mm (7.2") in December and temperatures fluctuating between 17°C (62.6°F) to 30.2°C (86.4°F), it's typically a warm and wet season. Daylight is ample, with an average of 12.8 hours in December. Notably, the UV Index reaches its yearly maximum value of 7 during these months.
Autumn weather in Ndola
March through
May signifies Autumn in
Ndola, as the rainfall starts its decline, all the way from 124mm (4.88") to a near non-existent 7mm (0.28") in May. The temperature during this period varies from 12.3°C (54.1°F) to 25.8°C (78.4°F), offering mild weather. Daylight hours start to decrease with the average falling from 12.2 hours in March to 11.5 hours in May.
Winter weather in Ndola
Winter in
Ndola sweeps in from
June through
August. Characteristic of this season, Ndola experiences no rainfall, lowest relative humidity ranging from 54% in June to 40% in August; and temperatures fluctuating from 10°C (50°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F). The daylight duration remains constant at around 11.4 hours, and the UV index lowers to 5, making it a comfortable period for outdoor activities.
Weather in January
As the year unravels in
Ndola,
Zambia,
January stands as one of the wettest months with rainfall reaching 183mm (7.2"). This time of the year often sees a blend of humid afternoons, mild evenings, and a not-so-clear atmosphere, owed largely to the heavy cloud cover.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Transitioning to
February,
Ndola experiences a slight reduction in rainfall levels, yet continues to retain its humid character. February’s climate carries a pleasant mildness, while occasions of sunshine increasingly become apparent.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Ndola signifies a considerable deduction in rainfall levels compared to previous months, dropping to 124mm (4.88"), which in turn fuels a decline in relative humidity. With the onset of the dry season, wind speeds slightly rise, visibly stirring the city's foliage and creating a sense of kinetic vibrancy.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Ndola witnesses a remarkable shift in weather as
April unfolds. Everything about the city's climate seems to undergo change, heralding the true arrival of the dry season. Subtle signs of aridity begin to percolate, re-defining the landscape with a clearer atmosphere and long, visible horizons.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May, in
Ndola, is characterized by an exceptional dryness with practically no rainfall, marking a stark contrast from the earlier months. The considerable fall in humidity results in clear, unobstructed views of the cityscape. Consequently, this month celebrates the dominance of sunny skies, which become a common sight.
Weather in May » Weather in June
With
June comes the peak of the dry season in
Ndola, displaying little to no rainfall. This month witnesses a pronounced rise in wind speed, carrying signs of aridity across the city. The atmospheric pressure gradually scales up, playing a significant role in maintaining the dominant dry spell.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Ndola continues its arid appearance, with consistent dry weather conditions. The average temperatures remain favorable, contributing to the comfortable atmosphere despite the peak dry spell. Clear skies dominate the month, offering abundant sunshine hours and creating a vibrant outdoor environment.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August is another extremely dry month for
Ndola; however, a high of 28.8°C (83.8°F) heralds the return of heat. The rise in temperature retains the comfort of the dry season while giving a gentle nudge towards the incoming warmer months.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Ndola brings the highest temperature for the year, soaring up to 33.5°C (92.3°F), marking a distinct transition towards the hotter season. This month experiences a significant drop in pressure levels, hinting at the approaching change in seasons.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is
Ndola's step into a new phase where rainfall finally marks its return, albeit in moderation at 8mm (0.31"). This month witnesses a marginal dip in temperature while maintaining a warm ambiance. The soaring temperatures see a downward revision, indicating the slow withdrawal of the hot spell.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November signifies
Ndola's gradual entry into its traditional rainy season as the rainfall volume climbs to 82mm (3.23"). The return of the rains ushers in a delightful freshness, largely altering the city's surroundings. A notable rise in humidity coupled with marginally lower temperatures signals the end of the hot spell.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December stands as the second rainiest month in
Ndola, with rainfall measuring up to 155mm (6.1"). The weather takes a full circle and reverts to the conditions prevalent at the beginning of the year. Consequently, this month witnesses frequent showers interspersed with overcast skies, distinctly reminding of the city's monsoon-like conditions.
Weather in December »