Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Mono, Benin, is characterized by a tropical savanna (Aw) classification according to the Köppen-Geiger climate system. Throughout the year, the region experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, showcasing the cooler end of its climatic spectrum. The average temperature hovers around 27°C (82°F), indicating a warm climate that is conducive to various forms of life and agriculture. Peaks in temperature occur in February, where maximums reach 37°C (98°F), intensifying the heat and establishing the dry season's notable impact on local ecosystems. This climate profile sets the stage for both ecological diversity and agricultural potential in the area.
In Mono, Benin, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. January heralds the coolest temperatures with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), gradually warming in February as minimums rise to 21°C (69°F) and maximums peak at 37°C (98°F). The weather remains warm in March and April, with consistent average temperatures around 29°C (84°F), while the onset of the wet season in May brings a slight decrease in temperature, averaging 28°C (83°F). As the rains continue, June through August sees a drop in both average and maximum temperatures, hovering around 26°C (79°F) to 27°C (81°F). In the subsequent months of September and October, temperatures gradually rebound, returning to averages of 27°C (81°F) and 28°C (83°F), before stabilizing in November and December with slightly varying minimums around 21-22°C (69-72°F). Thus, the climate of Mono transitions smoothly from warm to cooler and back to warm, distinctly influenced by the dry and wet seasons.
In Lokossa, the temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (98°F) in February, highlighting a significant rise in heat during the transition from winter to early spring monthly temperatures in Lokossa. In comparison, Grand-Popo experiences milder conditions, with January temperatures starting at a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and peaking at 34°C (94°F) in February monthly temperatures in Grand-Popo.
Precipitation patterns in Mono, Benin, reveal a clear seasonal rhythm characterized by a marked increase in rainfall from January through October. The year begins with minimal rainfall in January, recording only 16 mm (0.6 in) over 5 days. As February emerges, precipitation rises sharply to 47 mm (1.9 in), followed by a gradual escalation through the following months. March and April bring 74 mm (2.9 in) and 94 mm (3.7 in) respectively, paving the way for May's substantial uptick, with 153 mm (6.0 in) across 23 days, indicating the onset of the rainy season.
This wet season peaks in June with a substantial 202 mm (7.9 in) over 24 days, followed closely by July and August, which receive 136 mm (5.4 in) and 130 mm (5.1 in) respectively. As the season continues, September experiences a significant 177 mm (6.9 in), concluding with October, the wettest month, accumulating 212 mm (8.4 in) across 26 days. The transition to the drier months arrives in November and December with reductions to 90 mm (3.6 in) and 41 mm (1.6 in), respectively, marking the end of the rainy season. Overall, the annual precipitation cycle in Mono underscores the region's dependence on distinct wet and dry periods for its ecological health and agricultural cycles.
In Mono, Benin, sunshine duration exhibits seasonal fluctuations that reflect the region's tropical climate. The year commences with a solid foundation of 263 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing through February and March to reach a notable 323 hours by the latter month. This upward trend continues into April and May, when sunshine hours peak at 331 hours, making it one of the sunniest periods of the year. The consistent rise in daylight hours during these months supports outdoor activities and agricultural productivity, which are vital for the local economy.
As the year progresses, sunshine hours remain significant through the rainy season, with June experiencing 303 hours, followed by July with 314 hours and August with 323 hours. This period maintains a good balance of sunshine despite increased cloud cover from the rains. From September to November, slightly reduced hours—averaging around 304 to 316 hours—indicate a transition towards the end of the rainy season while still providing ample sunlight. December concludes the year with 323 hours, suggesting a return to more favorable conditions, promoting both ecological resilience and agricultural cycles. Overall, the late dry season months from February to May stand out as the sunniest, presenting ideal conditions for various forms of life and growth.
The UV Index in Mono, Benin, indicates a consistently extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout most of the year. Beginning in January and continuing through February, the UV Index remains at a high level of 11, categorized as extreme, with a brief burn time of merely 10 minutes. As the months progress into March and April, the UV Index peaks at 12 and 14, respectively, signifying the most intense solar radiation and underscoring the necessity for adequate sun protection. This extreme rating persists into May, before tapering slightly in June through August, maintaining a steady 12.
As the year moves towards its conclusion, the UV levels demonstrate a gradual decline. Notably, November and December see the UV Index drop to 9, categorized as very high, with a longer burn time of 15 minutes. This shift reflects the seasonal changes in solar intensity, emphasizing the need for continued caution even during these cooler months. Overall, the prevalent extreme UV Index throughout the majority of the year highlights the importance of sun safety practices in Mono, particularly during the peak months from March to May, when UV radiation reaches its highest levels.
UV Risk Categories
In Mono, Benin, daylight duration exhibits a stable pattern throughout the year, characterized by approximately 11 to 12 hours of daylight daily. The year starts off with an even distribution of 11 hours in both January and February, providing consistent lighting for various activities. As March unfolds, the duration increases to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April, May, and into the mid-year months of June, July, and August, where daylight levels remain steady at 12 hours. This consistent sunlight allows for ample time for agricultural practices and community life, reinforcing the region's tropical character.
As the year approaches its end, daylight duration begins to taper off once again, returning to 11 hours in both October and November, before concluding the cycle in December. This gradual decrease highlights the moderate seasonal changes experienced in Mono, reflecting a typical pattern observed in tropical regions. Overall, the relatively stable daylight hours throughout the year enable a productive environment, supporting both the local biodiversity and human activities alike, while also making sun safety practices essential due to prolonged exposure.
Grand-Popo, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in February, with average monthly temperatures consistently around 28°C (83°F). The rainy season peaks between May and October, with June receiving significant rainfall of 233 mm (9.2 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful, with May boasting the highest at 332 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Grand-Popo climate.
Lokossa, Benin experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to 23°C (74°F) in March, with maximums reaching up to 37°C (98°F) in February. The wettest months are May through October, with September recording the highest rainfall of 191 mm (7.5 in). Despite the rainfall, sunshine remains abundant, with May boasting approximately 330 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Lokossa climate.
In conclusion, Mono, Benin, presents a dynamic climate characterized by its distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences consistently warm temperatures and significant rainfall during the wet season, while generous sunshine and high UV levels necessitate effective sun protection measures. The stable daylight duration throughout the year supports agricultural productivity and community activities, contributing to the area's ecological resilience. Understanding these climatic dynamics is crucial for local stakeholders, including farmers, health practitioners, and policymakers, ensuring that they can adapt to seasonal variations and optimize resource management for sustainable development in Mono.