Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Atlantique, Benin, is characterized by a tropical savanna (Köppen-Geiger classification Aw), showcasing a distinct temperature range that underscores its seasonal variability. January experiences cooler nights with a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F), transitioning to an average warmth of 27°C (81°F) throughout the year. The region reaches its peak warmth in February, where maximum temperatures can soar up to 37°C (99°F). This unique climatic pattern not only influences the local ecosystem but also shapes the daily lives of its inhabitants, making it a vital aspect of the region's identity.
Temperature patterns in Atlantique, Benin, reveal a distinct seasonal progression throughout the year, beginning with the cooler temperatures of January, where minimums dip to 19°C (66°F). As the year advances into February and March, there is a marked increase in warmth, with maximums reaching 37°C (99°F). The transition into April and May sees a slight cooling yet retains a steady average temperature around 28°C (82°F). The onset of the rainy season in June results in further cooling, with averages dropping to 27°C (80°F), and maximums falling to around 33°C (92°F). During the subsequent months of July and August, temperatures stabilize around 26°C (79°F), reflecting the cooler and more humid conditions typical of the wet season. However, as the year concludes in October through December, a gradual return to warmth occurs, with averages climbing back to 28°C (83°F) and peak temperatures resuming at 35°C (96°F). Overall, the climate is marked by a transition from dry to wet conditions, with temperature fluctuations that effectively delineate the changing seasons.
Ouidah experiences a pleasant range of temperatures with a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in January and a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in February. For more detailed information, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Ouidah here.
Precipitation in Atlantique, Benin, exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern, beginning with relatively low rainfall in January, accumulating just 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days. As the year progresses into February and March, precipitation increases significantly, reaching 46 mm (1.8 in) and 70 mm (2.8 in), respectively, with the number of rainy days also rising. The wet season is firmly established by May, where rainfall peaks at 145 mm (5.7 in) over 22 days, signaling the approach of the heaviest downpours typical of June, which records 212 mm (8.4 in) across an average of 25 rainy days.
Following the peak wet months of June and July, where rainfall measures 156 mm (6.2 in), precipitation begins to taper but remains substantial through September and October, registering 199 mm (7.8 in) and 224 mm (8.8 in), respectively. The frequency of rainy days remains high, particularly in October, with 26 days of rainfall. As the year winds down, November sees a decrease to 89 mm (3.5 in) over 22 days, followed by a further decline in December to 36 mm (1.4 in) with only 9 days of rain. This cyclical trend of wet and dry periods denotes the striking contrast in Atlantique's climate, greatly influencing the region's biodiversity and agricultural practices.
In Atlantique, Benin, sunshine duration follows a captivating annual cycle, with a steady increase in hours from January to May. The year begins with 262 hours of sunshine in January, gradually rising to an impressive 326 hours by May. March stands out as a key month, boasting the highest sunshine duration of the year at 318 hours, closely followed by April. This trend underscores a transition toward the drier and sunnier times, as the region approaches the peak of its dry season, offering optimal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the rainy season approaches in June, the sunlight hours dip slightly to 295 hours, but they remain relatively consistent throughout the summer months, with July and August reporting 310 and 322 hours of sunshine, respectively. Following this, September experiences a slight reduction, however, sunshine remains abundant at 300 hours. The fall months, particularly November and December, see a resurgence in sunshine with 312 and 320 hours, respectively, hinting at a climactic return of dry weather. Overall, the sunshine dynamics in Atlantique not only reflect the region’s climatic shifts but also play a crucial role in supporting its vibrant ecosystems and seasonal agricultural activities.
The UV Index in Atlantique, Benin, remains consistently high throughout the year, dominated by extreme levels that necessitate cautious exposure practices. From January to May, the UV Index persists at 11 to 14, indicating an extreme exposure category that can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. April marks the peak intensity with a UV Index of 14, clearly emphasizing the importance of protective measures during this time, especially as residents and visitors engage in outdoor activities under the blazing sun.
As the year transitions into the latter months, the UV Index hovers around 12 for the summer months of June, July, and August, reflecting that while the intensity slightly lessens, it still maintains an extreme exposure category. By November and December, there is a notable decline to a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, which increases the recommended burn time to 15 minutes. Despite this reduction, caution remains paramount, as even the lower UV ratings pose a significant risk for sunburn and long-term skin damage. The consistent high UV levels throughout the year highlight the necessity for effective sun protection strategies among the inhabitants of Atlantique.
UV Risk Categories
In Atlantique, Benin, the duration of daylight exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with slight variations that delineate seasonal changes. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, creating a foundation for the gradual increase in sunlight. As the months transition into March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains consistent through May, June, July, and August. This sustained period of ample daylight during the middle of the year is vital for agricultural practices and enhances outdoor activities, allowing for a vibrant lifestyle.
As the year progresses into the autumn months, daylight begins to decrease again, returning to 11 hours in October. This gradual decline continues through November and December, marking the end of the longer daylight period. Despite the reduction towards the latter part of the year, the consistent daylight of around 11 to 12 hours provides a rhythmic predictability that influences both nature and the daily routines of those in Atlantique. This stability plays a crucial role in the region’s ecosystems and affirms the connection between the community and their environment revolving around the sun's cycle.
Ouidah, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in the peak of the rainy season, with maximum temperatures consistently hovering around 30-33°C (86-91°F). Rainfall is most abundant from May to October, with June seeing the highest precipitation at 234 mm (9.2 in). The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from November to May, where monthly sunshine hours exceed 300. For more details, visit Ouidah climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Atlantique, Benin, is a tapestry woven from distinct temperature patterns, substantial precipitation, high UV exposure, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The transition from dry to wet seasons markedly influences the local environment, agricultural practices, and daily life. With remarkable sunshine hours during certain months and an extreme UV Index that necessitates protective measures, the region presents both opportunities and challenges for its inhabitants. The predictable variations in daylight further enhance this unique climatic profile, allowing communities to adapt and thrive in harmony with their natural surroundings. Understanding these climatic elements not only enriches our appreciation of Atlantique but also underscores the importance of sustainable practices in preserving its ecological balance.