Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kouffo, Benin, exhibits an Aw climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized by a distinct tropical savanna climate. Temperatures in this region show a minimum of around 18°C (65°F) in January, rising to a comfortable average of 27°C (82°F) annually. The heat peaks dramatically with a maximum of 38°C (101°F) recorded in February, highlighting the region's warm and humid conditions. This climate profile underscores the significant seasonal variation and presents unique challenges and opportunities for local ecosystems and agriculture.
In Kouffo, Benin, temperature patterns exhibit a clear seasonal trend influenced by the tropical climate. The year begins with January experiencing a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching 37°C (99°F), signaling the onset of warmer months. As February and March progress, minimum temperatures gradually rise, ultimately peaking in February at 20°C (68°F), while maximums consistently hover around 38°C (101°F). During April and May, temperatures begin to stabilize, with averages settling at 29°C (84°F) or lower, indicating the onset of a slower cooling phase. The cooler months of June to August see a decrease in both average temperatures and maximums, with July and August experiencing the lowest figures, around 26°C (79°F) average. This cooling effect persists into September and October, where mild temperatures continue, before December brings a slight bounce back to averages near 28°C (83°F). Overall, Kouffo's climate fluctuates between warm peaks and pleasant lows, showcasing the region's dynamic yet predictable temperature trends throughout the year.
Aplahoue experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in February, while Dogbo also has a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January, with slightly cooler maximum temperatures at 37°C (98°F) in February. For more details, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Aplahoue here and in Dogbo here.
Kouffo, Benin, experiences a distinct seasonal pattern in precipitation, with marked variation from the beginning to the end of the year. January, typically the driest month, sees only 9 mm (0.4 in) of rainfall over about 2 days. However, as the months progress into February and March, precipitation increases significantly, culminating in 61 mm (2.4 in) by March. The rainy season officially kicks off in April, where rainfall surges to 85 mm (3.4 in). This upward trend reaches its zenith in June and July, with 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation recorded each month, marking the height of the wet season.
Following the July peak, precipitation begins to taper off slightly but remains substantial, with 179 mm (7.0 in) in September and 183 mm (7.2 in) in October, creating a robust second half of the rainy season. The transition into November and December signals a return to drier conditions, dropping to 58 mm (2.3 in) and 20 mm (0.8 in) respectively. The number of rainy days also reflects this shift, peaking in September with 25 days of rain, before gradually decreasing. Overall, precipitation in Kouffo reveals a clear pattern of seasonal fluctuation, highlighting the region's reliance on its wet months for agriculture and water resources.
In Kouffo, Benin, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal pattern, characterized by a steady increase from the beginning of the year into the summer months. January starts with 264 hours of sunshine, gradually rising through February with 291 hours and peaking in March at 319 hours. This increase reflects the transition from the cooler, drier season to the warmer, more sunlit period that culminates in May, which records the highest sunshine total of 328 hours. The consistency of bright days during this time not only enhances comfort levels but also supports agricultural activities crucial for the local economy.
As the year progresses, sunshine duration begins to stabilize, with June to August maintaining a balance between 303 and 310 hours. Despite the onset of the rainy season, these months benefit from substantial sunlight, crucial for plant growth and maintaining agricultural productivity. Interestingly, sunlight hours remain robust even as rainfall amounts increase, indicating clear skies can occur alongside tropical showers. As the year closes, sunshine hours remain significant, ranging from 310 to 323 hours from October to December. This consistent exposure to sunlight, especially in the latter months, underscores Kouffo's unique climatic rhythm, reinforcing its dependence on both sun and rain for seasonal cycles.
In Kouffo, Benin, the UV Index reaches consistently high levels throughout the year, indicating a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. The index starts strong in January and February at 11, classified as extreme, with a burn time of only 10 minutes. This pattern continues into March, where the index increases to 12 before peaking in April at 14, the highest level recorded. This consistent exposure to extreme UV radiation underscores the necessity for residents and visitors to take protective measures, especially during the peak months before the onset of the rainy season.
As the weather transitions into the summer months, the UV Index fluctuates slightly but remains within the 12 to 13 range from May through September. During these months, the exposure category remains extreme, still indicating a burn time of 10 minutes. Notably, this reflects a sustained risk for skin damage, necessitating diligent sun protection practices. By November and December, the UV Index decreases slightly to 10, falling into the very high category with an extended burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, the consistently high UV levels throughout the year highlight the importance of sun safety in Kouffo, where residents must remain vigilant against sun overexposure.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Kouffo, Benin, showcases a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. January and February each receive about 11 hours of daylight, providing a consistent amount of sunlight to kick off the year. As March arrives, daylight duration increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through the following months. This steady twelve-hour daylight span during April through September allows for ample time to engage in outdoor activities and agricultural tasks, vital for sustaining the local economy.
As the year progresses into October, daylight once again reduces to 11 hours, maintaining this shorter duration through November and December. This slight decrease marks the end of the equatorial sun's peak, yet the overall variation remains minimal compared to regions further from the equator. The uniformity of daylight hours in Kouffo not only influences daily life but also ensures a reliable rhythm for ecological cycles throughout the seasons, contributing to the region's unique climate and agricultural practices.
Aplahoue, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. January marks the coolest month with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 37°C (65°F to 99°F), while the warmest months are typically February and March, with highs reaching 38°C (101°F). Rainfall increases significantly from May through September, peaking at 167 mm in September, contributing to the region's lush environment. The area enjoys ample sunshine, with May having the highest at 326 hours. For more detailed information, visit Aplahoue climate.
Dogbo, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to March, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 37°C (98°F), with January having the lowest rainfall at 12 mm. The wettest months are May through October, peaking in September with 191 mm of precipitation. Despite the rainfall, Dogbo enjoys substantial sunshine, with May boasting up to 330 hours. For more details, visit Dogbo climate.
In conclusion, Kouffo, Benin, presents a rich tapestry of climatic characteristics that significantly influence the region's ecosystem and cultural practices. With its tropical savanna climate marked by distinct temperature variations and robust seasonal precipitation, Kouffo supports vital agricultural activities that are essential for local livelihoods. The consistently high UV Index further emphasizes the need for sun protection, while the stable daylight duration provides a dependable rhythm for daily life throughout the year. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for effective environmental stewardship and planning, ensuring that the community can adapt to both the challenges and opportunities presented by their unique climate.