Climatic Zonation of Chad: Rainfall and Temperature Distribution
Climatic Overview
Chad, a landlocked country in north-central Africa, presents a pronounced climatic
gradient from north to south. The country spans three major climatic zones:
1.
Arid Desert Zone (North)
2.
Semi-Arid Sahelian Zone (Center)
3.
Tropical Savanna Zone (South)
This climatic division is primarily influenced by latitude, atmospheric circulation, and
monsoon patterns, with rainfall increasing and temperature decreasing toward the south.
Climatic Zones of Chad
Climatic Characteristics by Zone
1. Northern Chad – Hot Desert Climate (BWh)
Extremely high daytime temperatures, exceeding 45°C in summer.
Cold nights due to low atmospheric humidity.
Virtually no rainfall throughout the year.
Landscape dominated by sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and scarce vegetation.
2. Central Chad – Hot Semi-Arid Climate (BSh)
Transition zone between desert and savanna.
Pronounced dry season; rainfall limited to June–September.
Temperatures remain high year-round, though less extreme than the north.
Seasonal grasslands and sparse shrubs.
3. Southern Chad – Tropical Savanna Climate (Aw)
Well-defined wet (May–October) and dry (November–April) seasons.
Substantial annual rainfall supports agriculture and dense vegetation.
Lower average temperatures, with high humidity during rainy months.
Rich biodiversity and riverine landscapes.
Zone
Average
Temperature (°C)
Annual
Rainfall (mm)
Climate
Classification
Major Cities
North
30–45°C
< 100 mm
BWh – Hot Desert
Climate
Faya-Largeau
Central
25–40°C
300–600 mm
BSh – Hot Semi-Arid
Climate
N’Djamena,
Abéché
South
20–35°C
800–1,200 mm
Aw – Tropical
Savanna
Moundou, Sarh