Climate Overview
The climate in Sumbawanga is warm and mild. The average annual temperature is 18°C and approximately 1674mm of precipitation falls per year. December is the wettest month, receiving around 327mm of rainfall. Sumbawanga sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Sumbawanga sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 10°C to 26°C. The warmest month is October, when average highs reach 26°C and the mean temperature sits around 21°C. July is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 10°C and an average of 16°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 10°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs.
Precipitation
Sumbawanga is a fairly wet location, receiving approximately 1674mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 140mm per month. The wettest month is December, averaging 327mm of rainfall. January and March also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is July, with just 1mm. That's 326mm less than December, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Sumbawanga is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 7km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is October, averaging 9km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in January, with average winds dropping to 5km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. There is moderate seasonal variation in wind speed, with a 4km/h gap between the calmest and windiest months. Wind tends to be stronger during winter months, driven by seasonal pressure systems. The seasonal averages break down to 9km/h in winter, 8km/h in spring, 5km/h in summer, 7km/h in autumn.
Seasons
9 days until Spring
It is currently winter in Sumbawanga, which began on June 21, 2026. Sumbawanga sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in October at around 26°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in July near 10°C. Spring is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 (9 days from now).
Spring
Temperatures range from 14 to 26°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 244mm for the season, averaging 81mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 8km/h. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is advisable as spring showers are frequent.
Summer
Temperatures range from 15 to 23°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 891mm across the season with a monthly average of 297mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 5km/h. Comfortable clothing with a light layer for cooler evenings is all you need.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 13 to 23°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 534mm across the season with a monthly average of 178mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 7km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 10 to 24°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 4mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 9km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sumbawanga is during May, June, July, August, September and October, when the weather is most comfortable for travellers. During these months, average temperatures hover around 18°C with modest rainfall averaging 16mm per month. With minimal rainfall expected, you can pack light and plan outdoor activities with confidence.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Sumbawanga based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.