Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Atakora, Benin, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw, indicative of a tropical savanna environment characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Average annual temperatures hover around a warm 27°C (81°F), with notable variations throughout the year. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 14°C (57°F) in January, while March can see soaring maximums reaching 40°C (105°F). This temperature range highlights the area's potential for both lush vegetation during the wet season and challenges presented by high temperatures during the dry months.
In Atakora, Benin, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal trend, with distinct variations from the cooler dry season to the hotter months. January marks the coldest period, with minimum temperatures around 14°C (57°F) and maximums peaking at 38°C (100°F). As the region transitions into February and March, temperatures rise, reaching the warmest points of the year in April, where maxima consistently hit 40°C (104°F). The onset of the rainy season in June brings a slight reprieve, with temperatures dropping modestly, though they remain warm, averaging around 26°C (80°F). The cooler months of July and August feature the lowest averages of approximately 25°C (77°F) but maintain comfortable nighttime minimums. By October and November, temperatures gradually rise again before returning to the cooler conditions of December, reflecting the cyclical character of Atakora's climate.
In the region of Atakora, temperatures vary among the towns of Guilmaro, Natitingou, and Tanguieta. In Guilmaro, January sees a minimum of 14°C (57°F), rising to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in April monthly temperatures in Guilmaro. Similarly, Natitingou records a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January and peaks at 39°C (102°F) in April monthly temperatures in Natitingou. Tanguieta experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January and reaching up to 40°C (105°F) in March monthly temperatures in Tanguieta.
Precipitation in Atakora, Benin, exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern, primarily correlating with the tropical savanna climate. The year begins with the dry months of January and February, registering virtually no rainfall, totaling merely 3 mm (0.1 in) in February. As March approaches, precipitation starts to increase, reaching 13 mm (0.5 in). The onset of the wet season occurs in April, when rainfall significantly escalates to 41 mm (1.6 in), setting the stage for the substantial downpours characteristic of the following months.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from June to August, with August receiving the highest precipitation at 275 mm (10.8 in) over an average of 27 rainy days, illustrating a crucial period for agricultural activities. Following this peak, September experiences a decline in rainfall to 231 mm (9.1 in), while October shows further decreases at 121 mm (4.8 in). November brings a drastic reduction to only 5 mm (0.2 in), transitioning back into a drier climate that extends into December, which sees dry conditions with no recorded rainfall. This seasonal precipitation pattern is vital for maintaining the region’s ecosystems and agriculture.
Sunshine duration in Atakora, Benin, displays a clear seasonal trend, with a noticeable increase in hours of sunlight from the beginning of the year to the late spring months. January starts the year with 270 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 302 hours in February and reaching an impressive peak of 341 hours in May. This pattern highlights a steady accumulation of sunlight as the region transitions into the warmer months, providing ample energy for both the local ecosystems and agricultural activities that thrive in the lush environment.
As the year progresses into the rainy season, sunshine hours remain relatively stable, with June through September showcasing slight fluctuations. June offers 327 hours, while the peak continues with 333 hours in July, before tapering slightly to 306 hours in September. Interestingly, the transition back to the dry season in October sees a resurgence to 325 hours, maintaining a strong presence of sunlight throughout the year, capped off with 323 hours in November. This consistency in sunshine duration not only enriches the local biodiversity, but also supports the agricultural cycles crucial to the livelihoods of Atakora's residents.
In Atakora, Benin, the UV Index reveals a striking pattern of extreme sun exposure throughout most of the year, with values consistently high from January to September. Starting with a UV Index of 11 in January, the readings escalate to a peak of 14 in September, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator and the intensity of sunlight during these months. Each month maintains an "extreme" exposure category, indicating a burn time of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin, emphasizing the need for precautions against potential sun damage.
As the year progresses into the latter months, there is a noticeable decline in the UV Index, dropping to 10 in November and further to 9 in December. Although these months still fall under a "very high" exposure category, the extended burn time of 15 minutes allows for slightly more leeway for outdoor activities. The high UV Index throughout the year underscores the importance of skin protection and public awareness about the risks associated with sun exposure in Atakora, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to adopt sun safety measures.
UV Risk Categories
In Atakora, Benin, daylight duration exhibits a remarkably consistent pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial geography. During the first two months, January and February, daylight lasts for approximately 11 hours, providing a stable amount of sunlight that marks the dry season. As the year progresses into March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains steady through the wet season from April to September. This consistency supports various agricultural activities, allowing farmers to maximize their use of natural light.
As the calendar year's end approaches, daylight begins to taper off again in October, returning to 11 hours in both November and December. This slight reduction signals the transition back into the country's drier months. Overall, the regularity of daylight hours in Atakora not only influences ecological patterns but also plays a significant role in the lifestyles of its residents, shaping daily routines and agricultural practices throughout the changing seasons.
Guilmaro, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March and April. The wettest months are July and August, receiving up to 263 mm (10.3 in) of rainfall, while January and December see virtually no precipitation. Despite the rainfall, sunlight is abundant, with hours peaking at 341 in May. For more details, visit Guilmaro climate.
Natitingou, Benin, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a marked wet season. The average temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in March and April, with the hottest months typically being March, April, and May. Rainfall is scarce in the first half of the year but peaks during the rainy season from June to August, accumulating up to 290 mm (11.4 in) in August alone. Despite the rainfall, the city enjoys ample sunshine, with hours ranging from 270 in January to 341 in May. For more detailed information, visit Natitingou climate.
Tanguieta, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a low of 15°C (59°F) in January to highs of 40°C (104°F) in April and March. Rainfall peaks between June and August, with August receiving the most precipitation at 272 mm (10.7 in), while January and December are notably dry with no rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in May, reaching up to 341 hours. For more detailed information, visit Tanguieta climate.
In conclusion, the climatic conditions of Atakora, Benin, characterized by consistent temperature patterns, significant rainfall, ample sunshine, and extreme UV exposure, play a crucial role in shaping both the environment and the lives of its inhabitants. The marked seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation underscore the importance of understanding local climate dynamics, especially for agricultural practices. Furthermore, the stable daylight duration enhances the region's agricultural productivity, fostering a deep connection between the community and its natural resources. As awareness of climate-related challenges grows, it becomes increasingly vital for residents and policymakers to leverage this knowledge to promote sustainable practices that will support both livelihoods and the environment in Atakora.