Mozambique climate
Tropical Influence
Mozambique, located along the southeastern coast of Africa, experiences a predominantly tropical climate shaped by its proximity to the Indian Ocean and the influence of monsoon systems. The country's long coastline, stretching over 2,500 kilometers, plays a significant role in moderating temperatures and driving seasonal weather patterns. The warm Agulhas Current flowing southward along the coast further enhances the tropical characteristics, creating conditions conducive to lush vegetation in some areas and arid landscapes in others.
Seasonal and Tropical Climate
Mozambique's climate is divided into two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season, influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and monsoon winds, typically runs from October to March. During this period, warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean brings heavy rainfall, particularly to coastal and northern regions.
The dry season, from April to September, is characterized by cooler temperatures and significantly less rainfall, as high-pressure systems dominate. Tropical cyclones, which occasionally strike the coast between January and March, can bring intense rain and strong winds, impacting infrastructure and agriculture.
Temperature Variations
Temperatures in Mozambique vary by region and season but remain relatively warm year-round due to the tropical climate. Coastal areas, such as Maputo and Beira, experience average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in the cooler months (June to August) to 30°C (86°F) or higher during the wet season. Inland regions, particularly in the northwest like Tete, can see temperatures soar above 35°C (95°F) during the hot season, while cooler nights are common in the dry season. Elevation also plays a role, with higher areas like the Manica and Niassa plateaus experiencing milder temperatures.
Humidity and Precipitation Levels
Humidity levels in Mozambique are generally high, especially along the coast, where they often exceed 70% during the wet season. Inland areas tend to be slightly less humid, though still significant during the rainy months. Annual precipitation varies widely, averaging between 800 mm and 1,200 mm across the country. The northern and central coastal regions, including Nampula and Zambezia, receive the highest rainfall, often exceeding 1,500 mm annually, while southern areas like Gaza receive less, closer to 500 mm. The wet season accounts for the majority of this precipitation, with intense, short bursts of rain common.
Precipitation Distribution
Rainfall distribution in Mozambique is uneven, both spatially and temporally.
The northern provinces, such as Cabo Delgado and Nampula, receive the bulk of their rainfall from December to February, driven by monsoon flows and the ITCZ. Central regions, including Sofala and Zambezia, follow a similar pattern but are also prone to tropical cyclones, which can cause extreme rainfall events.
In contrast, the southern provinces, such as Inhambane and Gaza, experience shorter and less intense wet seasons, with rainfall often concentrated in January and February. This uneven distribution impacts agriculture, with northern areas supporting crops like cassava and maize, while southern regions rely on irrigation or drought-resistant varieties.
Drier Regions
The southern and some inland areas of Mozambique are notably drier, with semi-arid conditions prevailing in provinces like Gaza and parts of Tete. These regions receive less than 600 mm of rainfall annually, and the dry season can extend for up to eight months. The lack of consistent rainfall, combined with high evaporation rates, leads to water scarcity, challenging both agriculture and local communities. In these areas, seasonal rivers and groundwater sources are critical, but prolonged droughts, exacerbated by climate change, have increased vulnerability to food insecurity and water shortages.