It�s not winter yet

Maranyane Ngwanaamotho | Wednesday April 9, 2014 15:32

 

Yesterday, Meteorological Services Department director, Thabang Botsoma told Mmegi that fluctuating temperatures were normal in autumn, the season Botswana is in currently, and should not be confused with the onset of winter.

Botsoma said that autumn is characterised by fluctuating temperatures, which do not have any correlation to the time winter will arrive. Popular beliefs suggest that chillier temperatures after the rain season have a bearing on the arrival, duration and harshness of winter.

“In autumn, one week can be cold and the next warmer. It is normal. This is because we are moving from a warmer season to a cold one, and what we are currently experiencing is the transition period. Mornings and evenings are colder where as it is hot during the day,” he said.

Chief meteorologist Radithupa Radithupa also told Mmegi that winter is not yet in, as it only starts in May.

He explained that temperatures are usually cooler in areas that are in the eastern side of water bodies such as dams and valleys.

Radithupa dispelled the belief that receiving heavy rains means winter will be harsh. “It is a localised issue. Temperatures are cooler only in areas that are on the eastern side of water bodies because the wind usually blows from the west to the east,” he said.

Average temperatures across the country remain unchanged, he said.

Meanwhile, temperatures have dropped substantially across the country with the northern areas of the country that usually record maximum temperatures over 40 Degrees Celsius during summer, currently recording a reduced maximum temperature of 28 Degrees Celsius.

Rains have also reduced across the country as the rainy season comes to an end.