* Tropical climate, cooler than normal because of the altitude, with a distinct rainy season from April to September.

* Annual rainfall averages more than 1,000 mm / 40 inches.

* Average maximum temperature in Addis Ababa 21 to 25 Celsius / 69 to 77 Fahrenheit.

* Semi desert in the north east and south east lowlands where the rainfall is less than 500 mm / 20 inches a year.

* The country has a history of severe droughts.