Climate
Current Climate:
Nestled within a semi-arid landscape, Mokala National Park experiences frequent thunderstorms. Since its proclamation in 2007, we’ve diligently recorded temperature and rainfall data at Doornlaagte. Embraced by a predominantly summer rainfall pattern, our region experiences the capricious nature of precipitation, ranging from 233 mm to 558 mm annually.
The heart of our rainy season occurs from November to March, with February claiming its peak. Over the span of 2007 to 2016, we recorded an average annual rainfall of 355 mm. While rainfall may be unpredictable, the temperatures paint a more stable picture. Winter temperatures plummet to lows of -6.61 °C in July 2011, while summers may soar to highs of 43.2 °C (seen in January 2016). Frost blankets the mornings, with the earliest frost event noted on April 27, and lingering as late as September 23.
Projected Future Climate:
Peering into the future, we anticipate a shift in the climate. By 2050, temperatures are projected to rise by 1.6 °C to 2.8 °C, ushering in more days of extreme heat. While rainfall patterns may see minimal change or slight increases, the driest scenarios predict half our current rainfall. As our climate evolves, the landscape may transform, resembling arid savanna more closely. With rising CO2 levels favoring woody plants, bush encroachment poses a challenge, prompting us to explore ecologically friendly solutions.