Lobito Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Angola

Climate

Lobito enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by two distinct seasons. The rainy season lasts from October to April, bringing abundant rainfall and humidity. During this time, temperatures range from a minimum of 24°C (75°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F). The dry season, from May to September, is hot and dry, with temperatures reaching an average high of 35°C (95°F). The average annual temperature is a pleasant 28°C (82°F).

Average Weather Year Round

January-February: Hot and humid, with average temperatures between 26°C (79°F) and 32°C (90°F). Rainfall is common, with an average of 100mm per month.

March-April: The transition to the dry season brings slightly lower temperatures and less frequent rainfall. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F).

May-September: The dry season is at its peak, with hot and dry weather. Temperatures average from 23°C (73°F) to 35°C (95°F).

October-November: As the rainy season approaches, temperatures gradually rise and humidity increases. Rainfall becomes more frequent, averaging around 50mm per month.

December: The wettest month of the year, with abundant rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures remain high, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F).

Average Monthly Temperatures

Lobito, Angola, experiences warm temperatures year-round. The average monthly temperatures range from 22°C (71°F) in August to 28°C (82°F) in February. The warmest months, from December to April, have average temperatures above 26°C (79°F). The coolest months, from May to August, have average temperatures below 24°C (75°F).

Rainfall and Humidity

Lobito has a relatively dry climate, with an average annual rainfall of around 400 mm (16 inches). Most of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, from November to March. The humidity levels are generally low throughout the year, with an average relative humidity of around 60%. This makes the weather in Lobito feel comfortable even when temperatures are high.

Overall Climate

Lobito’s warm temperatures, low rainfall, and low humidity make it a pleasant place to live and visit year-round. The warm and sunny weather provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, fishing, and hiking. The low rainfall and humidity make it easy to enjoy these activities without the discomfort of excessive heat or humidity.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Lobito, Angola, experiences a variety of cloud cover throughout the year. During the dry season (May to October), the skies are generally clear with little cloud cover. However, during the rainy season (November to April), cloud cover increases significantly. The city often experiences overcast skies and heavy rainfall during this period.

Types of Clouds

The most common types of clouds observed in Lobito are cumulus, stratus, and cirrus clouds. Cumulus clouds are puffy clouds that often appear in fair weather. Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky and can produce drizzle or light rain. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are made of ice crystals. These clouds are often seen high in the atmosphere and do not produce precipitation.

Monthly Precipitation

Lobito experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from October to April, with heavy rainfall during this period. The dry season lasts from May to September, with significantly less precipitation.

During the wet season, Lobito receives an average of over 100 millimeters of rainfall per month. The heaviest rainfall occurs in March, with an average of around 150 millimeters. The city experiences frequent thunderstorms during this time, which can bring torrential downpours and flash floods. In contrast, the dry season is much drier, with average monthly precipitation below 20 millimeters. The driest months are July and August, which typically receive less than 5 millimeters of rainfall.

Annual Precipitation

Lobito’s annual precipitation varies depending on the year and climate patterns. On average, the city receives around 400-600 millimeters of rainfall annually. However, there can be significant variations from year to year. In some years, Lobito may receive less than 300 millimeters of rainfall, while in other years, it may exceed 700 millimeters.

The distribution of rainfall throughout the year is also influenced by climate phenomena, such as El Niño and La Niña. During El Niño years, Lobito tends to experience heavier rainfall, while during La Niña years, the rainfall is generally lighter. These climate patterns can affect the availability of water resources and agricultural productivity in the region.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Lobito, a coastal city in Angola, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically spans from October to May, bringing abundant precipitation to the city. During this period, Lobito receives an average of over 1,000 millimeters (39 inches) of rainfall, with the wettest months being December and January. In contrast, the dry season, lasting from June to September, is characterized by significantly reduced precipitation and a more arid climate.

Variability and Distribution

Annual rainfall in Lobito exhibits considerable variability, both within and between years. The city has experienced periods of both extreme drought and heavy flooding. In recent years, Lobito has faced increasing challenges due to climate change, with more frequent and intense weather events leading to disruptions in daily life. While the general pattern of wet and dry seasons remains, the exact timing and amount of rainfall can vary significantly.

The Absence of Snow

Lobito, a coastal city in Angola, lies within the tropics, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. As a result, snowfall is an extremely rare occurrence in Lobito. The city’s location near the equator and its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean contribute to stable and warm weather patterns. Additionally, the absence of high-altitude mountains in the region prevents the formation of clouds that would produce snow.

Impact on the Environment and Society

The absence of snowfall in Lobito has a significant impact on the local environment and society. Without the insulating layer provided by snow, the region experiences relatively rapid soil erosion, leading to a reduction in soil fertility and loss of vegetation. Furthermore, the lack of snowmelt runoff limits the availability of water resources, particularly during the dry season. This can put a strain on local agriculture and water supplies. Snowfall would also have a transformative effect on the local landscape, providing recreational opportunities such as skiing and snowshoeing. However, due to Lobito’s geographical location and climate, these activities remain impossible.

Current Weather Conditions

The current weather conditions in Lobito, Angola indicate sunshine with a temperature of 28°C (82°F). The humidity is 78%, and the wind speed is 10 km/h (6 mph) from the southeast. The visibility is good at 10 km (6 mi).

Forecast

The forecast for the next few days in Lobito predicts continued sunshine with temperatures ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 30°C (86°F). The humidity will remain high, ranging from 75% to 85%. The wind speed will vary from 10 km/h (6 mph) to 15 km/h (9 mph) from the southeast. The visibility is expected to remain good. There is a low chance of precipitation, with a probability of only 10%.

Moonrise in Lobito, Angola

In the quaint coastal city of Lobito, nestled along Angola’s Atlantic coastline, the moon’s majestic ascent marks a celestial spectacle. As darkness envelops the city, the sky transforms into a canvas painted with a celestial glow. Moments before the moon’s debut, the horizon blushes with hues of gold and crimson, a prelude to the ethereal experience that awaits. As the moon gradually rises above the horizon, its soft, silvery light casts an enchanting shimmer upon the tranquil waters of the Lobito Bay. The gentle lapping of the waves against the sandy shores creates a rhythmic melody that complements the serenity of the moment.

Moonlit Night in Lobito

Bathing the city in an ethereal glow, the moon’s serene radiance illuminates Lobito’s vibrant streets and historic landmarks. The towering Esplanade Hotel, a relic of Angola’s colonial past, stands as a majestic silhouette against the moonlit sky. The intricate facades of the colonial-era buildings lining the streets cast long, dramatic shadows, creating a captivating interplay of light and darkness. The vibrant atmosphere of the local markets transforms under the moon’s spell, as vendors display their colorful wares under the celestial spotlight. The air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine, mingling with the sound of lively conversations and laughter. As the night deepens, the moonlight transforms the city into a realm of magic and enchantment.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Lobito, located on the coast of Angola, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. During the dry season, which typically runs from May to October, humidity levels are generally low, averaging around 60-70%. This is due to the influence of the cold Benguela current, which brings dry air from the south. As a result, the air in Lobito feels relatively dry and comfortable during this time of year.

In contrast, the wet season, from November to April, brings much higher humidity levels. The warm and moist air from the Atlantic Ocean causes humidity to rise to an average of 80-90%. This can make the air feel thick and muggy, leading to discomfort and increased sweating. The high humidity during the wet season is attributed to the convergence of moisture-laden air from the ocean and the warm temperatures that promote evaporation.

Impact on Health and Comfort

The humidity in Lobito has a noticeable impact on health and comfort. During the dry season, the low humidity can cause dryness of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It can also exacerbate conditions such as eczema and asthma. Regular use of humidifiers and moisturizers is recommended to mitigate these effects.

In the wet season, the high humidity can make it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature, leading to heat stress and discomfort. The increased moisture content in the air can also promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. To combat the effects of high humidity, it is essential to stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, and use air conditioning or fans to circulate the air.

Wind Patterns and Seasonal Variations

Lobito, a coastal city in Angola, experiences a distinct pattern of wind conditions throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction during the dry season (May to October) is predominantly southerly, bringing cool air from the Benguela Current. These winds are characterized by their consistency and moderate strength, ranging from 10 to 15 knots. During the rainy season (November to April), the wind direction shifts to a more northerly or northeasterly direction, carrying warm and humid air from the Congo Basin. These winds tend to be more variable in strength, with occasional gusts reaching 20 knots or higher.

Wind Speed and Impacts

The average wind speed in Lobito varies seasonally, with the highest speeds typically recorded during the rainy season. During this period, the strong winds can cause occasional disruption to coastal activities, such as boat excursions and fishing. However, the winds also provide a cooling effect and help to alleviate the high humidity levels. During the dry season, the wind speeds tend to be more consistent and less intrusive, making it a favorable time for outdoor activities and recreation along the coast.

Best time to visit in Lobito, Angola

The best time to visit Lobito, Angola, is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The humidity is also lower during this time, making it more comfortable to be outdoors.

There are a number of things to see and do in Lobito during the dry season. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go for a swim in the ocean, or take a boat trip to see the local marine life. There are also a number of historical and cultural attractions in Lobito, including the Lobito Museum, the Fort of Sao Pedro da Barra, and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

Solar Potential

Lobito, Angola, boasts exceptional solar potential due to its tropical climate and abundance of sunshine throughout the year. The average solar insolation in Lobito ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 kWh/m²/day, making it one of the highest solar radiation regions in Africa. This vast solar energy resource presents significant opportunities for harnessing clean and sustainable power.

Development and Challenges

In recent years, Angola has recognized the potential of solar energy and initiated several projects to promote its development. Several solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants have been constructed, including the 5 MW Baía Farta Solar PV Plant and the 10 MW Soyo Solar PV Plant. These projects contribute to diversifying Angola’s energy mix and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. However, the development of solar energy in Lobito faces challenges such as the high upfront investment costs and the need for efficient energy storage solutions to ensure uninterrupted power supply during cloudy periods or at night.

Topography of Lobito, Angola

Lobito, Angola, lies on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in west-central Angola. The city is situated on a narrow strip of land between the ocean and the Serra da Chela mountains. The mountains rise to a height of over 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) and form a dramatic backdrop to the city. The coastline is characterized by long, sandy beaches and rocky headlands. The topography of the area has shaped the development of Lobito, with the city’s port and industrial areas located on the flat coastal plain, while its residential areas are situated on the hillsides of the Serra da Chela.

Climate of Lobito, Angola

Lobito has a tropical savanna climate, with two distinct seasons: a dry season from May to October and a wet season from November to April. During the dry season, temperatures are relatively cool, with average highs in the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). Rainfall is scarce during this time, with occasional showers. During the wet season, temperatures are warmer, with average highs in the low 30s Celsius (80s Fahrenheit). Rainfall is frequent and heavy during this time, with thunderstorms common. The annual rainfall in Lobito is approximately 600 millimeters (24 inches). The climate of Lobito is influenced by its location on the coast, which helps to moderate temperatures and humidity.

Lobito Airport (LLT)

Lobito Airport (LLT) is a coastal airport located just 6 kilometers southeast of the city center of Lobito, in the Benguela Province of western Angola. It is primarily utilized for domestic flights within Angola and neighboring countries in the region. The airport features a single runway designated 15/33, measuring approximately 1,600 meters in length and 30 meters in width. LLT is equipped to handle the operation of medium-sized aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and the Airbus A320 family. Despite its relatively small size, Lobito Airport plays a significant role in supporting the economic activities and transportation needs of the region.

Alternative Airports

While Lobito Airport remains the nearest airport to the city, there are several alternative options available within a reasonable distance. Approximately 110 kilometers to the northwest lies the Catumbela Airport (CBT), located in the city of Catumbela. CBT is a regional airport with a longer runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft, including wide-body jets. Another option is the Luanda Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport (LAD), situated approximately 420 kilometers to the northwest in the capital city of Angola, Luanda. LAD is the primary international gateway into the country and offers a comprehensive range of domestic and international connections. The choice of airport may depend on factors such as flight availability, airline preferences, and specific travel requirements.

Lobito: History and Economy

Lobito, a port city in Angola, has a rich history dating back to the Portuguese colonial era. In 1899, the Portuguese established Lobito as a deep-water port to serve the hinterland and export agricultural commodities. The city’s strategic location on the Atlantic coast made it a vital economic hub, and it quickly grew into one of Angola’s largest cities. Today, Lobito remains a major port and industrial center. It is home to several oil refineries, shipyards, and fishing operations. The city’s economy also benefits from tourism, thanks to its picturesque beaches and historical landmarks.

Culture and Demographics

Lobito is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting Angola’s diverse population. The city’s inhabitants include people from various ethnic groups, including the Ovimbundu, Kimbundu, and Bakongo. The official language is Portuguese, but local languages such as Umbundu and Kimbundu are also widely spoken. Lobito has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The city is particularly known for its music, and it has produced several renowned musicians and singers. Lobito is also home to a large expat community, particularly from neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo.