The climate of Mahajanga
Mahajanga,
Madagascar, falls under the dominion of the Aw Köppen climate classification signifying a tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. Geographically located in the tropical region, the city experiences a significant swing in weather patterns between the wet and dry season.
The general climate remains tremendously warm throughout the year, with temperatures experiencing slight fluctuations. A continual pattern is noted, with peak warmth stretching from
November to
February with average high temperatures ranging between 30.9°C (87.6°F) and 31.7°C (89.1°F). The coolness sets its-foot in during the mid-year, but temperatures only dive moderately, with average lows stretching from 20.3°C (68.5°F) in
July to 25.2°C (77.4°F) in February.
Humidity levels mirror the temperature trend, remaining consistently high, around the 78-percent mark at the start of the year, then dropping to the mid-year low of 58%, before rebounding towards the end of the year. Rainfall patterns paint a distinct portrait of two halves. The year starts with high downpour, with
January seeing 254mm (10") rainfall, then takes a nosedive at mid-year, almost touching barrenness with 2mm (0.08") in July and
August, then gradually climbs back up towards the end of the year, with
December closing at 117mm (4.61"). Daylight hours remain relatively consistent throughout the year, hovering around an approximate 12 hours.
The best time to visit Mahajanga
For the sun-lovers and warmth seekers, the best time to visit
Mahajanga is during the shoulder months of the peak summer, from
September to
November. This is the period when the sunshine rates are at their cleanest, the sea temperatures are endearingly warm between 26.9°C (80.4°F) and 28.3°C (82.9°F), and the rainfall amounts have not yet rocketed.
The worst time to visit Mahajanga
Visitors keen to avoid heavy downpour and high humidity rates would do well to avoid the first quarter of the year, especially
January with its near constant rain showers, amounting to a hefty 254mm (10") and coupled with a high humidity level of 78%.
Spring weather in Mahajanga
Spring in
Mahajanga is not defined in traditional north-south terms, but for the sake of interpretation, can be denoted as the period from
September to
November. This period is characterized by rising temperatures, with the highest of 30.9°C (87.6°F) reached in September and escalating to 31.7°C (89.1°F) by November. Rainfall is sparse, totaling to 3mm (0.12"), 20mm (0.79"), and 84mm (3.31") respectively across these months.
Summer weather in Mahajanga
The graphically divided summer, signaling the start and end of the calendar year, extends from
December to
February. The season sees the highest temperatures of the year, reaching up to 31.6°C (88.9°F) in
January. However, the weather is greatly balanced by prolific rainfall, the heaviest of the year, with December and January witnessing 117mm (4.61") and 254mm (10") respectively.
Autumn weather in Mahajanga
Referred to as autumn, the stretch from
March to
May witnesses a drop in both temperatures and rainfall. Temperature averages descend from 30.6°C (87.1°F) in March to 30.3°C (86.5°F) in May, while rainfall decreases from 132mm (5.2") in March to merely 8mm (0.31") in May.
Winter weather in Mahajanga
Labelled as Winter, the period from
June to
August is identifiable by the lowest temperatures and scantiest rainfall of the year. Temperature dips to 28.8°C (83.8°F) in June, while rainfall touches its nadir at 2mm (0.08") in both
July and August. Even sea temperatures dip to an annual low of 25.8°C (78.4°F) in August. Despite the title, the season still incessantly graces with ample daylight, averaging 11 hours.
Weather in January
Starting the year,
January in
Mahajanga,
Madagascar, presents a humid climate with the sea temperature at a warm 29.2°C (84.6°F). This month is noticeably warmer when compared to the subsequent month of
February. Although the start of the year is generally wet, it allows for a lush, green landscape, making the city a picturesque sight.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
February rolls in, the city of
Mahajanga experiences a slight decrease in temperature from
January, resulting in a marginally cooler, yet still warm environment. Although a reduction in rainfall from 254mm (10") in January to 147mm (5.79") is noted, the weather still remains significantly humid.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In
March,
Mahajanga further sees a fall in rainfall to 132mm (5.2"), enhancing the city's appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. The temperature exhibits a slight shift from
February conditions but remains on the warmer side. As the rainfall decreases, the foliage keeps its vibrantly green hue, highlighting the city's natural beauty.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April ushers
Mahajanga into drier conditions, alluring more adventure seekers. Compared to the 72% relative humidity in
March, a significant decrease is observed. The gradual reduction in rainfall from March can be noted, turning the city into a more outdoor-friendly location.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Mahajanga witnesses a considerable drop in rainfall to just 8mm (0.31"), marking the onset of the dryer months. The temperature ranges also contrast with the previous month, indicating a cooler direction. Despite the fall in temperature, the city continues to maintain its welcoming warmth.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June continues the trend of falling temperatures and drier conditions, with relative humidity down to 62%. Compared to the previous months, June provides the city's residents with a cooler climate and less rainfall. However, the sea temperature of 27.2°C (81°F) offers an inviting environment for aquatic activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July remains relatively dry, adding to the appeal of outdoor activities. With humidity dropping to 59%, it makes
Mahajanga a comfort zone for travellers. As residents adjust to a moderate temperature, the decrease in rainfall and stable wind speeds provide a pleasant atmosphere.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Mahajanga experiences a steady weather pattern, slightly cooler and drier compared to
July. Yet, the city attains a balance within its climatic conditions. It is during this month that the temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall work together to create a perfect outdoor climate.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a warmth back to
Mahajanga, with a noticeable rise in temperature, up to a maximum of 30.9°C (87.6°F). This month marks the transition from cooler to warmer months. It further builds upon
August's pleasant conditions, maintaining an ideal atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October,
Mahajanga sees a return of moisture, with rainfall levels at 20mm (0.79"), a significant rise from the dry spell of past months. Temperature and sea temperature start to rise in sync in anticipation of the upcoming summer months.
Weather in October »Weather in November
With the arrival of
November,
Mahajanga starts to shift towards becoming noticeably warmer and wetter. An increase from the previous month's rain level becomes apparent with rainfall measured at 84mm (3.31"). Nonetheless, despite the wet conditions, the city retains its captivating charm, inviting visitors to experience the change of seasons first hand.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the end of the year with a significant increase in rainfall, reaching 117mm (4.61"). On comparison, it draws a stark contrast with
November's conditions, moving the city into a far wetter state. Despite this,
Mahajanga remains a destination of interest, with the high temperature and rise in sea temperatures complementing the wet atmosphere.
Weather in December »