Menongue Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Angola

Climate

Menongue, Angola, experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically lasts from October to April, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. During this period, temperatures are slightly cooler, averaging around 25°C (77°F). The dry season, spanning from May to September, is much drier and sunnier. Temperatures during this time can soar to 35°C (95°F) or higher, with little to no rainfall.

Average Weather Year Round

January: Hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C (66°F) at night to 31°C (88°F) during the day. Heavy rainfall is common.
February: Continuation of the hot and wet season, with temperatures averaging between 20°C (68°F) and 32°C (90°F).
March: The end of the wet season, with decreasing rainfall and slightly lower temperatures. Averages range from 19°C (66°F) to 30°C (86°F).
April: The transition to the dry season, with occasional showers and warmer temperatures. Averages range from 20°C (68°F) to 32°C (90°F).
May: The beginning of the dry season, with very little rainfall and sunny skies. Temperatures rise, averaging between 21°C (70°F) and 34°C (93°F).
June: The driest month of the year, with no recorded rainfall. Temperatures continue to rise, averaging between 22°C (72°F) and 36°C (97°F).
July: Similarly dry and hot, with temperatures averaging between 22°C (72°F) and 35°C (95°F).
August: The hottest month of the year, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 37°C (99°F).
September: The end of the dry season, with slightly cooler temperatures and occasional showers. Averages range from 22°C (72°F) to 35°C (95°F).
October: The beginning of the wet season, with increasing rainfall and lower temperatures. Averages range from 20°C (68°F) to 32°C (90°F).
November: Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are common, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C (66°F) to 30°C (86°F).
December: The continuation of the wet season, with slightly lower temperatures. Averages range from 18°C (64°F) to 29°C (84°F).

Climate Overview

Menongue, the capital of Cuando Cubango Province in southern Angola, experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The city lies on the Cunene River and is influenced by the semi-arid conditions of the Kalahari Desert to the east. The average temperature in Menongue ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) throughout the year.

Seasonality

During the wet season, which typically runs from October to May, Menongue receives an average of 600 to 700 millimeters (24 to 28 inches) of rainfall. The rainy season is characterized by heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms. The average temperature during this period remains around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), but it can fluctuate between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit).

In contrast, the dry season, lasting from June to September, is marked by little to no precipitation. Temperatures during this period can rise significantly, reaching an average of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). However, during the coldest months (June and July), temperatures can drop to around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) at night.

Cloud Cover Types and Patterns

Menongue, located in Angola, experiences varying cloud cover throughout the year. During the dry season (May to September), clear skies prevail with occasional scattered clouds. However, during the rainy season (October to April), cloud cover becomes more persistent. Cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds dominate the sky during this period, resulting in heavy rainfall. Additionally, thin cirrus clouds may appear at higher altitudes, indicating changes in weather conditions.

Seasonal Cloud Patterns

Cloud patterns in Menongue exhibit distinct seasonal variations. In the dry season, clear skies and a low percentage of cloud cover are characteristic. This is due to the dominance of subsidence, which inhibits cloud development. As the rainy season approaches, convective clouds increase in frequency and cover. During the peak of the rainy season, cloud cover is extensive, with thick, towering cumulonimbus clouds generating substantial rainfall. As the rainy season wanes, cloud cover gradually diminishes, transitioning back to the clear skies of the dry season.

Seasonal Distribution of Precipitation

Menongue, Angola, experiences a marked seasonality in precipitation. The wet season spans from November to April, when the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifts southward, bringing frequent and heavy rainfall. During this period, the city receives the bulk of its annual precipitation, with monthly totals often exceeding 200 millimeters. In contrast, the dry season extends from May to October, coinciding with the northward movement of the ITCZ. During these months, rainfall is scarce, with monthly totals typically below 20 millimeters.

Interannual Variability of Precipitation

The amount of precipitation received in Menongue varies considerably from year to year. This interannual variability is primarily influenced by the strength and position of the ITCZ, which can fluctuate due to factors such as El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Southern Annular Mode (SAM). During El Niño years, the ITCZ shifts eastward, leading to reduced rainfall in Menongue. Conversely, during La Niña years, the ITCZ shifts westward, resulting in increased rainfall. The intensity and duration of the wet season can also vary significantly, impacting agricultural productivity and water resources in the region. For instance, during severe droughts, crop failures and water shortages are common, while excessive rainfall can cause flooding and infrastructure damage.

Monthly Rainfall Patterns

Menongue, Angola experiences a distinct wet and dry season throughout the year. The wet season typically spans from October to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between December and March. During these months, the city can expect an average of 200-300 mm of precipitation per month. In contrast, the dry season lasts from June to September, during which rainfall is minimal and often occurs in brief, sporadic downpours. During this time, the average monthly precipitation drops to around 20 mm or less.

Annual Rainfall Totals and Variability

Menongue’s annual rainfall totals exhibit significant variation from year to year. On average, the city receives approximately 1000-1200 mm of precipitation annually. However, in certain years, rainfall amounts can exceed 1500 mm, while in others they may fall below 800 mm. This variability is primarily attributed to the influence of regional weather patterns, such as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The ITCZ governs the movement of the rain belt, while ENSO can affect rainfall intensities and patterns.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Menongue, a city nestled in the heart of Angola’s Cuando Cubango Province, experiences a tropical savanna climate. The city’s climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with the former typically occurring from October to April. During this period, heavy rainfall is common, while temperatures remain relatively high, averaging between 25°C and 30°C. In contrast, the dry season from May to September is marked by lower temperatures and sporadic rainfall. Despite these distinct climatic patterns, the occurrence of snowfall in Menongue is an extremely rare and unusual event.

Historical Records and Causes

There have been no recorded instances of snowfall in Menongue. The city’s location near the equator and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean make snowfall a highly unlikely phenomenon. The combination of high temperatures, lack of significant mountain ranges, and the absence of low-pressure systems that could create the necessary atmospheric conditions for snow formation renders snowfall in Menongue practically impossible. Additionally, the Angolan coast experiences minimal precipitation during the months when temperatures are lowest, further reducing the chances of snowfall. As a result, snowfall remains a theoretical possibility in Menongue but is highly unlikely to occur under the prevailing climatic conditions.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Menongue, Angola

Menongue, the capital city of the Cuando Cubango province in Angola, experiences consistent sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. Due to its location near the equator, the sun rises and sets at approximately the same time each day, with only minor variations. On average, sunrise occurs between 5:40 AM and 6:00 AM, while sunset takes place between 6:15 PM and 6:30 PM. The length of daylight in Menongue is relatively constant, with the sun shining for approximately 12 hours each day.

Sun Path and Intensity in Menongue, Angola

The sun’s path in Menongue, Angola, follows a predictable pattern throughout the year. As the city is located in the Southern Hemisphere, the sun appears to move from east to west across the sky, reaching its highest point at noon. During the summer months (December to February), the sun’s path is higher in the sky, resulting in longer daylight hours and more intense sunlight. Conversely, during the winter months (June to August), the sun’s path is lower in the sky, leading to shorter daylight hours and less intense sunlight. The intensity of sunlight in Menongue is generally high throughout the year, with an average UV index of 7-8 on a scale of 1 to 10.

Current Moon Phase in Menongue, Angola

As of today, the current moon phase in Menongue, Angola is a New Moon. This phase occurs when the Moon is directly between the Sun and Earth, and its sunlit side is not visible from Earth. During this phase, the Moon is not visible in the night sky.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Menongue, Angola

The moonrise time in Menongue, Angola today is 6:03 AM, and the moonset time is 6:06 PM. The Moon will be below the horizon for the entire day, as it is in the New Moon phase. During this phase, the Moon is not visible in the night sky, and its next visible phase will be the Waxing Crescent phase, which will begin on March 8, 2023.

Average Humidity Levels

Menongue, Angola, experiences relatively high humidity throughout the year, with an average annual humidity level of around 70%. The humidity levels fluctuate slightly throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring during the rainy season from October to April. During this time, the average humidity can reach up to 80% or higher, creating a humid and uncomfortable atmosphere.

Seasonal Variations

The humidity levels in Menongue vary significantly depending on the season. During the dry season from May to September, the humidity levels are lower, with an average of around 50-60%. However, as the rainy season approaches, the humidity levels start to rise and reach their peak during the wettest months. This seasonal variation in humidity is primarily due to the changes in atmospheric conditions and rainfall patterns throughout the year.

Wind Patterns

Menongue, Angola experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. During the wet season (October-April), the prevailing winds are northwesterly, bringing in moist air from the Atlantic Ocean. These winds contribute to heavy rainfall, often accompanied by thunderstorms. In the dry season (May-September), the winds shift to southeasterly, bringing in cooler, drier air from the interior of southern Africa. These winds are typically weaker and less frequent, resulting in a decrease in rainfall.

Wind Speed and Direction

Wind speeds in Menongue vary throughout the year. During the wet season, average wind speeds range from 10-15 knots (20-30 km/h), with occasional gusts reaching 25 knots (50 km/h) or higher. In the dry season, wind speeds decrease significantly, averaging 5-10 knots (10-20 km/h), with rare gusts exceeding 15 knots (30 km/h). The direction of the wind also exhibits a seasonal pattern, as discussed in the previous section.

Best time to visit in Menongue, Angola

The best time to visit Menongue is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, with average temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. The days are mostly sunny, with little rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming.

The rainy season runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is hot and humid, with average temperatures in the high 20s Celsius. Rainfall is common, especially during the afternoon and evening. The roads can become muddy and impassable, making it difficult to travel. However, the rainy season is also a time of lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls.

Solar Energy Potential in Menongue

Menongue, the capital of Cuando Cubango province in Angola, possesses significant solar energy potential. The region experiences high levels of solar radiation throughout the year, with an average of over 5 kWh/m2/day. This abundant sunlight presents an opportunity to harness clean and renewable energy for the province’s growing population. The development of solar power plants in Menongue could contribute to grid stability, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and support sustainable economic growth.

Current Solar Energy Development

Despite the favorable conditions for solar energy in Menongue, its development in the province remains limited. Currently, there are only a few small-scale solar projects operating in the region, providing electricity to isolated communities. However, the Angolan government has recognized the potential of solar energy and has set ambitious targets for renewable energy development. Plans are underway to construct a 30 MW solar power plant in Menongue, which is expected to significantly increase the province’s solar energy capacity and contribute to its transition towards a clean and sustainable energy future.

General Topography

Menongue, the capital of Cuando Cubango Province in Angola, is situated within the African Great Lakes region. The city lies on the Cuchi Plateau, an elevated region with an average elevation of 1,050 meters (3,445 feet) above sea level. Menongue’s topography is dominated by rolling hills, plateaus, and valleys. The Cuito River, a major tributary of the Zambezi River, meanders through the landscape, creating scenic riverine corridors and floodplains.

Ecological Significance

The topography of Menongue plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s ecology. The Cuchi Plateau forms a watershed boundary, with rivers flowing eastward towards the Zambezi basin and westward towards the Atlantic Ocean. The varied topography creates diverse habitats for a wide range of flora and fauna. The region is home to dense miombo woodlands, which are characterized by a mosaic of tree species and a diverse understory. Miombo woodlands provide essential ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and water regulation. The floodplains of the Cuito River support a rich wetland ecosystem, with abundant aquatic vegetation and a variety of fish species.

Cucumbi Airport (MEQ)

Menongue is served by Cucumbi Airport (MEQ), which is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. The airport has a single paved runway with a length of 1,800 meters and a width of 30 meters. MEQ has limited scheduled passenger services, with only a few flights per week connecting the city to Luanda. The airport primarily serves as a hub for military and cargo operations. It is occasionally used by small, regional airlines to provide connections to other cities in Angola. However, there are plans underway to expand and modernize the airport to accommodate increased passenger traffic in the future.

Other Nearby Airports

While Cucumbi Airport is the nearest airport to Menongue, there are several other airports in the region that may be accessible to travelers. One of the closest is Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (LAD) in Luanda, the capital of Angola. LAD is approximately 600 kilometers northwest of Menongue and offers a wider range of domestic and international flight options. Another option is M’banza Congo Airport (SSY), which is located approximately 500 kilometers northwest of Menongue. SSY provides limited regional flights to Luanda and other cities in Angola. The choice of which airport to use will depend on factors such as flight availability, schedules, and cost.

Geography and Climate

Menongue is the capital city of the Cuando Cubango Province in Angola. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, approximately 1,000 kilometers from the capital city of Luanda. Menongue sits at an elevation of about 1,200 meters above sea level, on the banks of the Cuebe River. Due to its high altitude, Menongue enjoys a temperate climate with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The rainy season typically lasts from October to April, while the dry season extends from May to September.

History and Culture

Menongue has a rich and diverse history. It was originally a settlement founded by the Chokwe people in the 16th century. In the 17th century, the Portuguese established a trading post in the area, which gradually grew into a major town. In 1920, Menongue became the capital of the Cuando Cubango Province. During the Angolan War of Independence (1961-1975), Menongue was a major battleground and suffered significant damage. After the war, the city was rebuilt and has since become one of the most important transportation and economic hubs in southeastern Angola. Menongue is also known for its cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts and crafts scene and traditional festivals.