Is it always hot in Africa?
Africa is a hot continent as the heat of the sun is always strong there. Thus, warm and hot climates prevail all over Africa but the northern part is the most marked part by aridity and high temperatures.
Winter in Africa is generally warm, but here are more interesting facts on the continent's winter season, which occurs over June, July and August. Southern Africa experiences about 4 climates, including subtropical, cold semi-arid, warm and cold desert climates.
Africa is often stereotyped by the relentless humidity and heat of it's western nations, but temperatures in many parts of the continent can dip surprisingly low. Yes, there are actual 'winter' seasons in many African countries.
For many countries in Africa, the seasons do not follow the same pattern they do in New Zealand or Australia. Instead of Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring, most countries in East Africa and Southern Africa have a wet season(s) and a dry season.
Temperatures in the Sahara can plummet once the sun sets, from an average high of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during the day to an average low of 25 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 4 degrees Celsius) during the night, according to NASA.
Mali is the hottest country in the world, with an average yearly temperature of 83.89°F (28.83°C). Located in West Africa, Mali actually shares borders with both Burkina Faso and Senegal, which follow it on the list.
| Record Value | 55.0°C (131°F) |
|---|---|
| Date of Record | 7/7/1931 |
| Length of Record | unknown |
| Instrumentation | Presumably Maximum/Minimum Thermometer in Standard Stevenson Screen |
| Geospatial Location | Kebili, Tunisia [33°42'N, 8°58'E, elevation: 38.1m (125ft)] |
Indeed, it does snow in Africa, but rarely. Africa is a massive continent, hosting a wide range of climate zones and snow can be found all in different regions of the continent. There are certain countries in Africa that are more prone to some amount of snowfall than others.
Sun hats and umbrellas are also absolute essentials that can provide much relief during an afternoon walk in Africa. I generally don't leave the house without my umbrella during Namibia's summer season. Shielding yourself will make walks under the African sun so much more bearable.
Lesotho (0°F to 82°F)
It is the coldest country in Africa with an average temperature range between 0°F to 82°F. In winter, the temperature reaches an average of 19°F in the lowlands and 0°F in the highlands. In the highlands, snow is commonly experienced, especially from May to September.
