Climate of Beira

7 day weather forecast for Beira

Tropical Influence

Beira, a major port city in central Mozambique along the Indian Ocean coast, experiences a tropical climate shaped by its coastal location and the warm Agulhas Current flowing southward. Situated in Sofala Province, Beira's climate is influenced by monsoon systems and the Indian Ocean, which moderate temperatures and drive significant seasonal weather patterns. The city's proximity to the coast fosters a humid, tropical environment, supporting coastal ecosystems while also exposing it to extreme weather events.

Seasonal and Tropical Climate

Beira's climate features two distinct seasons: a wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September. The wet season, driven by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and monsoon winds, brings warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean, resulting in heavy rainfall. This period is also when Beira is most vulnerable to tropical cyclones, particularly between January and March, which can cause intense rain, strong winds, and flooding, significantly impacting infrastructure and agriculture. The dry season, dominated by high-pressure systems, is cooler and sees minimal rainfall, offering a respite from the wet season's intensity.

Temperature Variations

Beira enjoys warm temperatures year-round, characteristic of its tropical coastal setting. During the wet season (October to March), average daytime temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F), with occasional peaks above 34°C (93°F) during hotter months. In the dry season (April to September), temperatures are milder, averaging between 20°C and 27°C (68°F to 81°F). Nighttime lows in the dry season can drop to 16°C to 19°C (61°F to 66°F), providing cooler evenings. Beira's coastal location helps moderate extreme temperature fluctuations compared to inland areas.

Humidity and Precipitation Levels

Maputo experiences high humidity, particularly during the wet season, when levels often exceed 70–80% due to its coastal proximity. The dry season sees slightly lower humidity, around 50–60%, making it more comfortable. Annual precipitation in Maputo averages around 800–1,000 mm, lower than northern Mozambique but still significant. The wet season accounts for most of this rainfall, with frequent, intense showers. January and February are typically the wettest months, while the dry season, particularly June to August, sees little to no rain.

Precipitation Distribution

Rainfall in Beira is unevenly distributed, with the wet season (October to March) receiving the bulk of precipitation. The heaviest rains occur between December and February, driven by monsoon flows and the ITCZ, with tropical cyclones occasionally amplifying rainfall and causing severe flooding. Central Mozambique, including Beira, is particularly prone to these extreme weather events, which can disrupt port activities and urban life. The dry season (April to September) is largely rain-free, with clear skies and low precipitation, supporting drier conditions but necessitating water management for agriculture and urban use.

Drier Conditions

Compared to northern Mozambique, Beira is less rainy but still wetter than southern regions like Gaza. With annual rainfall of 1,200–1,500 mm, Beira experiences a pronounced dry season lasting up to six months, particularly from June to August, when rainfall is minimal. While the city's coastal location prevents extreme aridity, prolonged dry spells can strain water resources, especially in surrounding rural areas. Beira's infrastructure, including drainage systems, is critical for managing wet season floods, but challenges persist in ensuring water availability during the dry season, exacerbated by climate change-induced drought risks.