Climate of  Inhambane

7 day weather forecast for Inhambane

Tropical Influence

Inhambane Province, located along Mozambique's southeastern coast, experiences a tropical savanna climate shaped by its proximity to the Indian Ocean and the warm Agulhas Current flowing southward. The province's extensive coastline fosters humid conditions and moderates temperatures, creating a tropical environment with lush coastal vegetation and sandy beaches. Inhambane's climate is influenced by monsoon systems, though less intensely than northern regions, resulting in a balance of wet and dry periods.

Seasonal and Tropical Climate

Inhambane's climate is defined by two main seasons: a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. The wet season, driven by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and monsoon winds, brings warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean, leading to moderate rainfall. Tropical cyclones occasionally affect the province between January and March, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that can impact coastal communities and infrastructure. The dry season, dominated by high-pressure systems, is cooler and sees minimal rainfall, creating stable, sunny conditions.

Temperature Variations

Temperatures in Inhambane remain warm year-round, typical of its tropical coastal location. During the wet season (November to March), daytime temperatures average 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F), with occasional peaks above 33°C (91°F). The dry season (April to October) is milder, with averages ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). Nighttime lows in the dry season can drop to 16°C to 19°C (61°F to 66°F), offering cooler evenings. The coastal influence ensures temperature moderation, preventing the extremes seen in inland regions like Tete.

Humidity and Precipitation Levels

Humidity in Inhambane is high, particularly during the wet season, when levels often reach 70–80% due to the province's coastal proximity. The dry season sees lower humidity, around 50–60%, making conditions more comfortable. Annual precipitation averages 700–900 mm, lower than central and northern Mozambique but higher than drier southern areas like Gaza. The wet season accounts for most rainfall, with frequent, intense showers in January and February. The dry season, especially from June to August, is nearly rain-free, contributing to water management challenges.

Precipitation Distribution

Rainfall in Inhambane is unevenly distributed, with the wet season (November to March) receiving the bulk of precipitation. January and February are the wettest months, driven by monsoon flows and the ITCZ, with occasional tropical cyclones causing heavy downpours and potential flooding in coastal areas. The dry season (April to October) sees minimal rainfall, with months like June to August often completely dry. This seasonal contrast impacts agriculture, with crops like cassava and coconuts thriving in the wet season, while irrigation or drought-resistant varieties are needed during the dry months.

Drier Conditions

Inhambane is drier than Mozambique's northern and central regions, with annual rainfall of 700–900 mm and a prolonged dry season lasting up to seven months. While not as arid as inland Gaza, the province faces water scarcity during the dry season, particularly in rural areas. High evaporation rates and limited rainfall exacerbate challenges for agriculture and water supply. Coastal areas benefit slightly from groundwater and seasonal rivers, but prolonged droughts, intensified by climate change, increase risks of food insecurity and water shortages, necessitating careful resource management.