Climate

Despite its location within the tropics, much of Zambia has a pleasant climate due to its high altitude, which affects and moderates both rainfall and temperature. Temperatures are highest by the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Bangweulu and Mweru, and in the valleys of the Zambezi, Kafue and Luangwa rivers.

There are wide seasonal variations in rainfall and temperatures, with the highest temperatures coming before the rains. October is the hottest month, with moist air from the east causing humidity, cloudiness and thunderstorms. The main rainy season starts in mid-November, with heavy tropical storms that last well into April. The cool, dry season runs from May to middle of August, after which temperatures rise rapidly. September is usually very dry.

Livingstone has a hot climate, with extreme temperatures ranging from-3°C (27°F) in June/July to 40.6°C (105°F) in October and an annual rainfall of almost 75 cm. Lusaka, at 4,100 ft, has temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 39°C (100°F) and an average annual rainfall of 115 cm.