Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is expected to experience a mix of cloudy skies, scattered thunderstorms and bright sunny intervals over the next 24 hours, as shifting seasonal weather patterns continue to influence conditions across the country.
According to the latest national weather outlook issued on December 18, 2025, the forecast period begins at 9:00 p.m. and reflects the ongoing interaction between moist air systems and regional geographical features. Meteorologists say the outlook is consistent with the current short rains season, which often brings variable conditions across different parts of the country.
Southern coastal areas, including Lindi and Mtwara, are likely to see mostly cloudy skies accompanied by thunderstorms in a few locations, though breaks of sunshine are also expected. Similar conditions are anticipated in parts of western and central Tanzania such as Kigoma, Tabora, Katavi and Singida, where residents may experience brief rain showers followed by clearer spells.
In regions surrounding Lake Victoria, including Kagera, Geita, Mwanza and Shinyanga, the weather is forecast to remain partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms. Sunshine is expected to appear intermittently, offering relatively stable daytime conditions despite occasional rainfall. The southern highlands, covering areas such as Mbeya, Iringa, Njombe, Rukwa and Songwe, are also expected to experience partly cloudy skies with light rain showers in a few areas before conditions improve later in the day.
Island communities are not left out of the changing weather patterns. Unguja and Pemba islands, along with coastal areas including Mafia Island, are forecast to experience partly cloudy conditions with occasional thunderstorms and sunny intervals. Meanwhile, the eastern corridor encompassing Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Morogoro is expected to follow a similar trend, with short-lived rainfall in some locations and warm conditions prevailing overall.
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In the northern highlands, including Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Manyara, partly cloudy skies with occasional showers are forecast, followed by clearer periods. Weather experts note that these fluctuations are common in high-altitude regions during this time of year, as moisture-laden winds interact with mountainous terrain.
Temperatures across major urban centres are expected to remain moderate to warm. Daytime highs are forecast to range from around 20 degrees Celsius in cooler highland areas to approximately 32 degrees Celsius in low-lying regions and major cities. Night-time temperatures are expected to drop to between 12 and 25 degrees Celsius, with cooler conditions in elevated areas and warmer nights along the coast and on the islands.
Sunrise is expected to occur between 6:02 a.m. and 6:44 a.m., while sunset will range from 6:29 p.m. to just after 7:00 p.m., depending on location. Along the coastline, easterly winds are forecast to blow at an average speed of 20 kilometres per hour, while sea conditions are expected to remain generally slight, allowing for most marine activities to continue, though caution is advised.
Weather analysts say no extreme conditions are anticipated during this period, though slight changes may occur in the coming days. A broader understanding of seasonal patterns can be found through information on Tanzania’s climate, the influence of the Indian Ocean on coastal weather systems, and the science behind weather forecasting.
Residents are encouraged to stay alert to local updates, particularly in areas prone to thunderstorms, as Tanzania continues to transition through its seasonal weather cycle.
