Climate in Benguela
(Angola)

The number of hours of sunshine refers to the time when the sun is actually visible. That is, without any obstruction of visibility by clouds, fog or mountains. With 7 hours per day, February is the sunniest month in the region of Benguela. In July, the sun shines the least.

Water temperature depends not only on solar radiation within the same region, but also on ocean currents. For example, depending on the season, cold or warm water masses are moved from other areas. The warmest water temperatures in Benguela are in April, when the water is 26 °C.

Warm air can absorb more moisture than cold air. The relative humidity indicates how much moisture can be physically contained in the air. At high humidity, a person feels uncomfortable and perceives this as oppressive. In general, a relative humidity of 40-60% feels pleasant. With humidity averaging 81%, August is the most uncomfortable. In February, on the other hand, it is easier to endure.

In warm months, there is also a higher absolute humidity almost everywhere. At a temperature of 25°C, air can absorb up to 23 grams of water per cubic meter. At 20°C, it is only 17.3 grams. A relative humidity of 40% at 25°C thus corresponds to an absolute humidity of 9.2 grams of water. From a proportion of approx. 13.5 grams, humans perceive the air as muggy. This limit is exceeded throughout the year in Benguela.

The "Humidex" (humidity index) is an index of well-being in warmer areas, calculated from the air temperature, relative humidity and dew point. The index corresponds approximately to the temperature felt. At high temperatures, the body transports heat away by sweating. At high humidity, the ambient air can only absorb a small amount of sweat and thus one feels uncomfortable. An index of 20-29 is considered comfortable. Up to 39, people perceive the air as slightly uncomfortable, and above 40, as very uncomfortable. Values above 45 are dangerous in the long run and often lead to heat stroke.