The Seasons That Make Up Lake Kariba Weather
Lake Kariba weather can be broken up into 3 main seasons during the year.
Lake Kariba is on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia in Southern Africa, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. Most of Zimbabwe is sitting on a plateau at an altitude of between 1 200 meters and 1 600 metres.
Lake Kariba is situated in the north of the country where the altitude drops dramatically to 485 metres above sea level – and the lower the altitude, the hotter the climate.
Due to the northern latitude (and therefore closer to the Equator), the lower height than the rest of Zimbabwe, and the presence of the lake, the climate is sub-tropical, with the temperatures milder at night than in the rest of Zimbabwe.
This weather incorporates a distance of 198 kilometeres from Kariba Town at the top of the lake to Binga Village at the bottom of the lake.
Kariba Weather and Seasons
Summer or Rainy Season
This occurs from mid-November to April. These months may experience storms in the afternoon after the heat of the day or general light rain.
From November through April, the rainy season is in full swing. The rain comes in short, strong thundershowers that can exceed 6 inches (150 millimetres) per hour, with the skies clearing in between.
The upper Zambezi receives virtually all of its annual rainfall during these months, which explains why the Zambezi river’s flow varies so much throughout the year. The upper and middle Zambezi valleys get 22 to 30 inches of rain each year on average.
According to studies, a microclimate in the Lake Kariba area has caused an increase in precipitation, probably as a result of a lake wind being obstructed by the escarpment, which causes thunderstorms.
Winter or Dry Season
April to August is the cooler period of the year with dry and sunny weather. The average temperature is a warm 25 degrees Celcius (77 degrees Fahrenheit).
These moderate temperatures can drop to 15 degrees Celcius and the evenings will also be cooler. It is advisable to bring some warmer clothes for when the sun sets.
This season is characterised by clear skies with on-shore breezes arriving in the late mornings and continuing for the rest of the day.
This is considered to be the best time to visit Kariba as the days are sunny and enjoyable.
Mid Season
During the months of September and November, there is a brief period of intense heat after the cool winter. October can reach record temperatures in the build-up to the rains.
This is typical Lake Kariba weather during these months. However, the welcome rain lowers the temperature somewhat – but increases the humidity levels.
With a lake breeze coming off the water, the days are beautiful and the fishing good.
This is generally a good fishing season and a lovely time of year to spend some time on the water and hopefully catch a good-sized Kariba Bream.
