Weather overview
Отави lies in northern Namibia, where the climate shifts between wet and dry periods with noticeable seasonal changes. From November to March, the town experiences its rainy season, bringing warm days and occasional downpours. The rest of the year is dominated by dry conditions, with cooler temperatures from May to August and a gradual return to warmth by September.
Travelers visiting Отави will find the most stable weather between April and October, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures remain comfortable. The contrast between the wet and dry seasons shapes the landscape, making each visit to Отави feel distinct depending on the time of year.
Temperature
In Отави, temperatures follow a clear seasonal pattern, with the warmest months falling between October and March. During this period, daytime highs often reach +30 °C or more, while nights stay mild. The coolest time of year is from June to August, when temperatures drop to around +14.6 °C on average, with nighttime lows occasionally dipping below +5 °C.
The transition months, like April and September, offer moderate conditions, with daytime temperatures hovering around +21 °C to +29 °C. By November, the heat returns, and Отави prepares for the rainy season, which brings slightly lower daytime highs but higher humidity.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17.5 | 32.2 |
| February | 17.6 | 30.4 |
| March | 16.3 | 30.4 |
| April | 12.7 | 29.5 |
| May | 8.3 | 27.2 |
| June | 3.8 | 24.6 |
| July | 4.4 | 25.3 |
| August | 7.1 | 29 |
| September | 11.8 | 33.2 |
| October | 15.3 | 34.5 |
| November | 17.3 | 33.4 |
| December | 17.4 | 34.2 |
Precipitation
Отави has a pronounced wet season from January to March, with January being the wettest month, averaging 136.8 mm of rainfall. The rains taper off in April, and by May, the dry season begins, lasting until October. During these months, rainfall is rare, with June and July seeing almost no precipitation at all.
By November, the first rains of the season arrive, signaling the start of another wet period. While the showers can be heavy, they are usually short-lived, leaving plenty of sunshine in between. Travelers to Отави during the rainy season should be prepared for occasional downpours but can still expect warm, sunny days.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 136.8 |
| February | 127.8 |
| March | 84.1 |
| April | 16.6 |
| May | 8.2 |
| June | 0.1 |
| July | 0.1 |
| August | 0.5 |
| September | 0 |
| October | 25.7 |
| November | 39 |
| December | 89 |
What to pack
For a trip to Отави during the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm days, along with a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings, especially from June to August. A hat and sunscreen are essential year-round, as the sun can be intense even during the cooler months.
If visiting Отави in the rainy season, bring a light rain jacket or umbrella, as sudden showers are common. Quick-drying clothing is useful, and sturdy shoes will help navigate any muddy paths. During the wet months, temperatures remain warm, so layers are less necessary, but a light cover-up for the evenings is still a good idea.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 2.5 |
| February | 2.3 |
| March | 2.1 |
| April | 2 |
| May | 2.1 |
| June | 2.1 |
| July | 2.2 |
| August | 2.3 |
| September | 2.4 |
| October | 2.5 |
| November | 2.5 |
| December | 2.4 |