Polski
In previous issues of our newspaper, we have written about Europe struggling in the last months of this year with summer heat, droughts or fires. Meanwhile, southern Africa has been unusually cold in recent months, with July 11, 2023. snow has fallen in South Africa (South Africa). The southern edge of Africa also experienced weather anomalies – it was colder than usual.
Weather anomalies – snow where there usually is none
This July, unusually cold air from over Antarctica has reached Africa’s southern border. The South African weather service SAWS warned of the possibility of low temperatures and snowfall. The forecasts came true, as a lot of snow fell in higher-lying areas, including Johannesburg, South Africa. The heaviest precipitation was recorded in the highlands, mountains and mountain passes, particularly in the Western, Northern and Eastern Cape Provinces. The feeling of cold was compounded by gusty winds. Residents of Johannesburg, South Africa, had the opportunity to see snow outside their windows in 1996, 2007 and 2012, so as you can see, such weather anomalies don’t happen very often.
Climate of the southern part of Africa
In the south of the continent, the climate is warm or hot all year round, with short periods of winter. Due to their location, the regions of southern Africa have a wide range of average temperatures. On average, it ranges from 15 to 20°C, depending on the region and season. The average temperature in summer is higher – 20.1 to 25.3°C, while in winter it drops to 7.7 to 13.8°C. The wettest regions are the eastern slopes of the Drakensberg and the subtropical coast of the Indian Ocean. Precipitation on the Atlantic coast is only about 100 mm, while on the inland plateau it reaches 750 to 800 mm.
In South Africa, the sun shines for more than seven months of the year. In the south and west, daytime temperatures are high. The annual average for the region is 21°C. About 395 mm of rain falls annually. It is dry for 233 days of the year with a humidity level of 72%. The UV index is 5 and is at a moderate level.
In the eastern part of southern Africa, the average annual temperature is higher at 24°C. About 521 mm of rain falls annually, and it is dry for 159 days a year with a humidity level of 76%. The UV index is 5 and is at a moderate level. The average annual temperature for the northern part of southern Africa is quite high – 29°C. About 422 mm of rain falls there annually. It is dry for 203 days of the year with a humidity of 62%. The UV index is 6 in the UV index and is at a high level. All in all, it’s warm and sunny there, and precipitation varies quite a bit from region to region.
Seasons of the southern part of Africa
Spring runs from September to November. During this period, the temperature is usually between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, but can vary from region to region. Thunderstorms, precipitation, winds are then more frequent and intense throughout the country. Summer lasts from December to February. During this time, the temperature is between 20 and 30°C. January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 25°C. Nevertheless, in the north and inland areas, the values can be much higher. In summer, humidity levels rise, which increases the sensation of heat.
Autumn lasts from March to May. During this period, the temperature is, as in spring, between 15 and 20°C. In autumn, the amount of precipitation, frequency and intensity of storms and other extreme weather events increase. Winter lasts from June to August and is the period when temperatures are at their lowest, ranging from 10 to 15°C, and even less in some regions, especially at higher altitudes. July is the coldest month, and average temperatures can drop as low as 5°C! This is when sub-zero temperatures and snowfall can occur. Their reason is the influx of cold fronts from over the South Atlantic.
Such weather anomalies are something that is absolutely not associated with Africa and its hot climate. One is left to wonder whether this is something natural or another disturbing effect of climate change, which will worsen in the future and affect the lives of South Africans and the economy. For more information on the current weather and whether further weather anomalies are possible, visit the SAWS website.
Photo author: David Chaterera
