Climate of  Xai Xai in Gaza Province

7 day weather forecast for Xai Xai

Tropical Influence

Xai-Xai, the capital of Gaza Province in southern Mozambique, experiences a tropical savanna climate shaped by its coastal location along the Indian Ocean, approximately 12 km from the shore. Situated in the Limpopo River valley, the city benefits from the moderating effects of the warm Agulhas Current, which contributes to warm, humid conditions. The coastal proximity fosters a tropical environment with sandy beaches and coral reefs, though the region's semi-arid tendencies distinguish it from wetter northern provinces.

Seasonal and Tropical Climate

Xai-Xai's climate features two distinct seasons: a hot, wet season from October to March and a cooler, dry season from April to September. Tropical cyclones, particularly between January and March, occasionally bring heavy rain and strong winds, posing risks of flooding, as seen in the devastating 2000 floods caused by Cyclone Leon-Eline. The dry season, dominated by high-pressure systems, is nearly rain-free, with clear skies and milder temperatures.

Temperature Variations

Temperatures in Xai-Xai are warm year-round, reflecting its tropical coastal setting. During the wet season, daytime temperatures average 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F), with peaks occasionally reaching 36°C (96°F). The dry season is cooler, with averages ranging from 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F). Nighttime lows in the dry season can drop to 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 61°F), providing relief from daytime heat. The coastal influence moderates extremes compared to inland areas, maintaining relatively stable conditions.

Humidity and Precipitation Levels

Humidity in Xai-Xai is high during the wet season, often exceeding 70–80% due to its proximity to the Indian Ocean and monsoon influence. The dry season sees lower humidity, around 50–60%, improving comfort. Annual precipitation averages 925–1,145 mm, lower than central Mozambique but sufficient to support agriculture during the wet season. January is the wettest month, with approximately 134.6 mm of rainfall, while August is the driest, averaging 33 mm. The wet season accounts for the majority of precipitation, with intense showers common.

Precipitation Distribution

Rainfall in Xai-Xai is unevenly distributed, with the wet season (October to March) delivering nearly all precipitation. January and February are the peak rainy months, driven by monsoon flows and the ITCZ, with occasional tropical cyclones causing heavy downpours and potential flooding, particularly in the Limpopo River basin. The dry season (April to September) sees minimal rainfall, with months like July and August often completely dry. This seasonal contrast impacts agriculture, with crops like rice and cashew nuts reliant on wet-season rains, while irrigation is critical during the dry months.

Drier Conditions

Xai-Xai is among Mozambique's drier coastal regions, with a semi-arid to sub-humid climate and annual rainfall of 925–1,145 mm. The dry season, lasting up to six months, combined with high evaporation rates, leads to water scarcity, particularly in rural areas surrounding the city. The region's vulnerability to droughts, exacerbated by climate change, poses challenges for agriculture and water supply. Coastal ecosystems, including coral reefs and tidal pools, provide some resilience, but prolonged dry spells and past flood events, like those in 2000, highlight the need for robust water management and disaster preparedness.