Kadoma Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Zimbabwe

Rainy Season (October to March)

Kadoma experiences a rainy season from October to March, characterized by frequent showers and thunderstorms. January typically receives the highest rainfall, with an average of 173 mm (6.8 inches). The rains bring lush greenery to the area, turning the landscape a vibrant shade of green. Humidity levels tend to be high during this season, with average relative humidity ranging from 70% to 80%. Temperatures are generally mild, with average highs ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 29°C (84°F) and average lows between 16°C (61°F) and 18°C (64°F).

Dry Season (April to September)

The dry season in Kadoma lasts from April to September and is marked by clear skies and low precipitation. The driest months are August and September, with average rainfall of less than 10 mm (0.4 inches). During the dry season, temperatures fluctuate significantly. Daytime temperatures can reach highs of over 30°C (86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F) in the coldest months, June and July. Humidity levels are generally lower during this season, with average relative humidity ranging from 50% to 60%.

Average Temperature in Kadoma, Zimbabwe

Kadoma, Zimbabwe, experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average temperature throughout the year is approximately 19.5°C (67.1°F). The warmest months are October and November, with average temperatures reaching around 24°C (75.2°F). During these months, the city experiences frequent sunshine and high humidity.

The coolest months in Kadoma are June and July, when average temperatures drop to around 14°C (57.2°F). During this time, the city experiences cooler temperatures and occasional frosts. The rainy season typically spans from November to March, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the summer months. The average annual rainfall in Kadoma is approximately 760 millimeters (30 inches).

Clouds in Kadoma, Zimbabwe

Kadoma, a city in central Zimbabwe, experiences a tropical savannah climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season from November to April, the skies above Kadoma are often adorned with a tapestry of clouds. The most common types of clouds include cumulus, cumulonimbus, and stratus. Cumulus clouds are puffy, cotton-like formations that typically indicate fair weather. Cumulonimbus clouds, on the other hand, are towering, anvil-shaped clouds associated with thunderstorms and heavy precipitation. Stratus clouds are flat, gray layers that can cover the entire sky, often leading to overcast conditions.

The distribution and movement of clouds in Kadoma are influenced by several factors, including the position of the sun, the presence of air masses, and the topography of the surrounding area. During the morning hours, the skies are typically clear or have scattered cumulus clouds. As the day progresses, the sun’s heat causes the air near the ground to rise, forming cumulus clouds. These clouds can develop into cumulonimbus clouds in the afternoon, especially during the wet season. The movement of clouds is primarily determined by the prevailing wind direction, which is generally from the east or southeast in Kadoma.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Kadoma, Zimbabwe experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Annual precipitation averages around 850mm (33.5 inches), with the majority of rainfall occurring during the rainy season from November to March. During this period, Kadoma receives heavy downpours, often accompanied by thunderstorms. The wet season is crucial for agriculture, as crops depend on the rainfall for growth.

Seasonal Variability

The wet season is characterized by consistent high rainfall, with average monthly totals exceeding 100mm (4 inches). The months of January and February typically receive the highest precipitation, with an average of 150-200mm (6-8 inches) per month. During the dry season, from April to October, rainfall becomes scarce. Average monthly totals drop below 50mm (2 inches), resulting in prolonged periods of drought. This season is often characterized by sunny skies and low humidity, with occasional light showers.

Rainfall Patterns and Distribution

Rainfall in Kadoma, Zimbabwe, is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically spans from November to March, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in January and February. Annual rainfall averages around 800 mm (32 inches). During the wet season, rainfall is often accompanied by thunderstorms and heavy downpours.

Rainfall Variability and Climate Change

The rainfall patterns in Kadoma have exhibited significant variability in recent years. Droughts and floods have become more frequent and intense, largely attributed to climate change. Prolonged droughts have led to crop failures and water scarcity, while floods have caused property damage and infrastructure destruction. These extreme weather events pose significant challenges to the local economy and livelihoods of the population.

Snowfall in Kadoma, Zimbabwe

In a surprising turn of events, the town of Kadoma, Zimbabwe, experienced snowfall on August 22, 2022. This rare phenomenon was captured by locals who shared videos and images of the unusual weather occurrence. The snowfall, which lasted for several hours, blanketed the town in a white sheet and brought temperatures down to freezing levels. While snow is uncommon in Zimbabwe, it has been reported in the eastern highlands near the border with Mozambique. However, this is the first recorded snowfall in Kadoma, making it a truly extraordinary event.

Possible Causes

The snowfall in Kadoma has been attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, a cold front from the south brought frigid temperatures to the region. Secondly, moisture-laden clouds from the Indian Ocean collided with the cold air, leading to the formation of snow. It is believed that the topography of Kadoma, located at an altitude of approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, also contributed to the snowfall by creating favorable conditions for snow accumulation. The last time snowfall was recorded in Zimbabwe was in July 2017, when the eastern highlands received a dusting of snow. The snowfall in Kadoma serves as a reminder that even in tropical regions, unexpected weather events can occur.

Climate Overview

Kadoma, Zimbabwe, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically extends from October to March, characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. During this time, temperatures are generally warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F) in December and January, the warmest months. The dry season, from April to September, is less humid with negligible rainfall. Temperatures during this period are cooler, with July being the coldest month, averaging around 15°C (59°F).

Sunshine Duration and Solar Radiation

Kadoma enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day. The sun is most intense during the dry season, particularly from August to October. During these months, the city receives substantial solar radiation, making it an ideal location for solar energy harnessing. Kadoma’s high levels of sunlight and relatively low humidity create favorable conditions for photovoltaic systems, which can efficiently generate electricity from sunlight. The city has the potential to tap into solar energy as a sustainable and reliable source of power.

Moon and Kadoma

Kadoma, located in central Zimbabwe, offers a unique stargazing experience due to its minimal light pollution. The city’s remote location provides an unobstructed view of the celestial sphere, including the moon. During the new moon, the night sky is dark, allowing for clear observation of stars and constellations. As the moon waxes, it rises in the eastern sky, illuminating the landscape and casting a soft glow on the surrounding area.

When the moon is full, Kadoma becomes a prime destination for moonlit walks or stargazing. The bright moonlight creates a surreal atmosphere, casting long shadows and highlighting the details of the surrounding landscape. The absence of artificial light allows for optimal viewing of the lunar surface, revealing its craters and mountains in exquisite detail. Visitors can enjoy the full splendor of the moon’s beauty, whether they choose to observe it from a rooftop, a park, or even the open countryside.

Overview

Kadoma, located in central Zimbabwe, experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The humidity levels in Kadoma exhibit significant seasonal variations, impacting the overall climate and living conditions.

During the wet season, which typically spans from November to March, humidity levels in Kadoma rise substantially. The influx of moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean leads to high humidity levels, often exceeding 80%. The atmosphere becomes thick and humid, contributing to a feeling of discomfort and increased sweating. The combination of high humidity and warm temperatures creates a sultry environment, which can be particularly challenging for outdoor activities and physical exertion.

In contrast, during the dry season from April to October, humidity levels in Kadoma drop significantly. The lack of rainfall and the absence of moisture-carrying winds result in lower humidity levels, typically ranging between 30% and 50%. The drier conditions create a more comfortable atmosphere, with reduced sweating and increased evaporation. The lower humidity levels also allow for better air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergic reactions.

Wind Patterns and Variability

Kadoma, Zimbabwe, experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, which lasts from November to March, the prevailing winds are from the northeast. These winds bring moisture from the Indian Ocean and contribute to the city’s abundant rainfall. In contrast, during the dry season, from April to October, the dominant wind direction shifts to the southeast. These winds are drier and carry less moisture, contributing to the city’s arid conditions.

Impacts of Wind on Weather and Climate

The wind patterns in Kadoma have a significant impact on the city’s weather and climate. The moist northeasterly winds during the wet season result in frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding and erosion. Conversely, the dry southeasterly winds during the dry season bring clear skies and limited precipitation, exacerbating drought conditions. Additionally, the wind speeds in Kadoma are generally moderate, with an average of around 12 kilometers per hour (7.5 miles per hour) throughout the year. However, occasional strong winds can occur during thunderstorms or during the transition between seasons, posing risks of dust storms, wind damage, and wildfires.

Pleasant Months (May-September)

The most favorable time to visit Kadoma is during the winter months of May to September. Temperatures are at their most pleasant, ranging from a comfortable 15°C to a warm 25°C. The skies are generally clear, offering ample sunshine for outdoor activities. This is also the dry season, so you won’t have to worry about heavy rainfall disrupting your plans. The pleasant weather makes it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions, such as Kadoma Safari Park and the Mukushi National Monument.

Rainy Season (November-March)

Kadoma experiences its rainy season from November to March. During these months, temperatures remain relatively high, ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, the humidity levels can be high, making it feel more uncomfortable. The rainy season brings frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms. While this can be a disadvantage for outdoor activities, it can also provide a lush and picturesque landscape. The rain often brings vibrant greenery and blooming flowers, creating a beautiful backdrop for nature lovers.

Potential and Challenges

Kadoma, Zimbabwe, possesses significant solar energy potential due to its high levels of solar radiation. The city receives an average of 5.5 kWh/m2/day, making it an ideal location for solar energy development. However, the lack of a reliable electricity grid and the high initial investment costs associated with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have hindered widespread adoption.

Government Incentives and Future Outlook

To promote solar energy usage, the Zimbabwean government has implemented various incentives, including tax breaks on imported solar panels and equipment, as well as feed-in tariffs that compensate solar power producers for the electricity generated. These incentives have stimulated interest in solar energy, leading to a gradual increase in installations. With the anticipated expansion of the electricity grid and the declining costs of solar PV technology, the future of solar energy in Kadoma looks promising.

Relief and Drainage

Kadoma, Zimbabwe lies in the Zambezi River Basin, situated at an average elevation of around 3,600 feet (1,100 meters) above sea level. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, plateaus, and valleys. The city is drained by the Manyame River and its tributaries, which flow into Lake Kariba further north. The hilltops and plateaus provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while the valleys offer a rich tapestry of vegetation and wildlife.

Geological Formations

Kadoma’s topography has been shaped by geological processes over millions of years. The area is underlain by ancient granite and gneiss rocks that formed during the Precambrian era. These rocks have undergone extensive erosion and faulting, creating the characteristic rolling hills and valleys. The presence of gold deposits in the area has also influenced the topography, as the search for gold led to the formation of numerous mining sites and associated infrastructure. The geological formations and the mineral wealth have played a significant role in shaping the economy and development of Kadoma.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (previously known as Harare International Airport) is the primary airport serving Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, and the country’s main hub for international air travel. It is located approximately 11 kilometers northeast of the city center and handles both domestic and international flights. The airport serves as a major gateway to Zimbabwe and provides connections to destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. It is also the hub for Air Zimbabwe, the national carrier of Zimbabwe.

Other Airports in Kadoma

In addition to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, there are no other airports located in Kadoma. However, there are several smaller airstrips and private landing fields in the surrounding area that may be used for private aviation or charter flights. These include the Kadoma Airfield, located approximately 9 kilometers west of the city center, and the Eiffel Flats Airstrip, located approximately 16 kilometers southwest of the city center.

History of Kadoma

Kadoma, formerly known as Gatooma, is a city in central Zimbabwe. It was founded in 1890 by Colonel Edward Pennefather as a fort to quell resistance during the First Matabele War. The town was named after Cecil Rhodes’ private secretary, Cecil John Kadoma. After the war, the fort was abandoned, and the town was established as a mining settlement in 1894. Kadoma quickly developed as a gold mining center, and by 1902, it was one of the largest gold producers in Rhodesia. The town continued to grow throughout the colonial period, and after Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, it became a major industrial and commercial center.

Economy and Infrastructure

Kadoma has a diverse economy based on mining, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city is home to several gold mines, and it also produces copper, nickel, and chrome. Kadoma is also a major manufacturing center, with industries such as steel, textiles, and food processing. The city has a well-developed infrastructure, with good roads, railways, and utilities. Kadoma is also home to several educational institutions, including the Kadoma State University and the Kadoma Polytechnic College. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with several theaters, museums, and galleries. Kadoma is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the Kadoma Dam and the Kadoma National Park.