Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Cascades, Burkina Faso, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures in this region exhibit a wide range, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) recorded in January, an average temperature of 27°C (82°F), and soaring to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April. This climatic variability significantly influences the local ecosystem and agricultural practices, offering unique opportunities and challenges to its inhabitants.
Temperature patterns in Cascades, Burkina Faso, reveal a distinct seasonal trend marked by rising heat from the cool dry months to the hotter pre-rainy season. January and February begin with moderate temperatures, peaking in the low 30s°C (high 80s°F) before escalating in March and April, where maximums can reach 41°C (106°F). As the region transitions into May, temperatures begin to stabilize, cooling slightly with averages around 29°C (85°F) while still hitting highs of 39°C (102°F). The onset of the rainy season in June brings a dip in the average to around 27°C (81°F), with maximums decreasing gradually through to August. The cooler temperatures are sustained into the remaining months, with averages returning to the mid-20s°C (high 70s°F) as the year draws to a close, illustrating the significant influence of seasonal rainfall on the climate of the area.
In Banfora, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) in January to a peak of 41°C (106°F) in April, while Sindou sees similar minimum temperatures of 15°C (60°F) in January, but slightly lower maximums, reaching 40°C (104°F) in April. For more detailed insights, visit monthly temperatures in Banfora and monthly temperatures in Sindou.
Precipitation patterns in Cascades, Burkina Faso, exhibit a stark contrast between the dry and wet seasons, with negligible rainfall during the first part of the year. January and February record virtually no rain, while March experiences a slight uptick with 11 mm (0.4 in) falling over just two days. As the region approaches the rainy season, April sees a significant increase to 47 mm (1.8 in), signaling the start of a dramatic transition toward wetter conditions. The rising precipitation continues through May, with totals reaching 63 mm (2.5 in), setting the stage for the peak rainfall months.
The monsoon season peaks from June to August, where rainfall becomes abundant, with July experiencing the highest total of 218 mm (8.6 in) over 24 days and August an impressive 282 mm (11.1 in) across 27 days. Following this peak, precipitation begins to taper off, with September still receiving substantial rain at 195 mm (7.7 in). By October, total rainfall drops to 96 mm (3.8 in), culminating in a decline to just 7 mm (0.3 in) in November before returning to dryness in December. This marked seasonality not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences agricultural practices during the crucial growing periods.
In Cascades, Burkina Faso, sunshine duration exhibits a clear pattern of increase from the cooler months of winter to the heat of summer. Starting from January, with 267 hours of sunshine, there is a gradual rise in hours throughout the subsequent months, reaching a peak in May with a notable 340 hours. This steady ascent reflects the increasing intensity of sunlight as the dry season progresses, providing ample solar energy to the region. Following this peak, sunshine hours remain relatively consistent in June and July, with 320 and 308 hours respectively, showcasing the persistent sun that characterizes these warmer months.
As the season shifts into the wet months, sunshine duration begins to decline, most notably in August, which sees a drop to 269 hours due to the increased cloud cover and rain typical of the rainy season. However, the trend picks up again in September and October, with 281 and 319 hours of sunshine respectively, indicating a gradual return to clearer skies. Throughout the remaining months, sunshine hours hover around the mid to high 300s, illustrating a seasonal ebb and flow that highlights the importance of sunlight for both the climatic conditions and agricultural practices in the region.
The UV Index in Cascades, Burkina Faso, reveals a consistent pattern of extreme solar radiation throughout the majority of the year, necessitating caution among residents and visitors alike. Starting from January and February, the UV Index stands at 11, categorized as extreme, and remains at this level through early spring. As the region approaches the peak of the dry season, the index reaches its highest point of 14 in August and September, reinforcing the need for protective measures against skin damage, as sunburn can occur in as little as 10 minutes of unprotected exposure during this period.
As the year transitions into the cooler months of November and December, the UV Index slightly drops to 10, classified as very high, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. Despite this decrease, caution is still warranted due to the significant UV levels. The data reflects that year-round vigilance is essential in Cascades, given the extreme UV Index during much of the year, emphasizing the importance of applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Cascades, Burkina Faso, showcases a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with slight fluctuations that reflect the region's equatorial position. During the early months of January and February, residents experience approximately 11 hours of daylight, providing a consistent amount of sunlight suited for daily activities and agriculture. As the year progresses into March, the daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains constant through the summer months, allowing for extended time to engage in outdoor pursuits.
In the later part of the year, from October to December, daylight duration reverts back to 11 hours. This slight decrease mirrors the transition into the cooler season, but it remains sufficiently long to support both the local fauna and agricultural cycles. Overall, the consistency in daylight hours, with only minor variations, underscores the predictability of the environment in Cascades, aiding in the planning of agricultural and daily life activities throughout the year.
Banfora, Burkina Faso experiences a hot tropical climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall. January marks the coolest month with average temperatures around 26°C (80°F) and virtually no rainfall, while April sees highs reaching up to 41°C (106°F) as the wet season begins. The region receives the most precipitation from July to September, peaking at 274 mm (10.8 in) in August, which contributes to a lush landscape. Despite the rain, Banfora enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May with 339 hours. For more detailed information, visit Banfora climate.
The climate in Sindou, Burkina Faso, is characterized by a distinct dry and wet season, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in April. The hottest months are typically April and May, while the rainy season spans from June to September, peaking in July and August with average precipitation of 251 mm (9.9 in) and 291 mm (11.5 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant, with May receiving the most at 340 hours, providing ample light throughout the year. For more detailed climate information, visit Sindou climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental conditions of Cascades, Burkina Faso, reveal a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that profoundly influence the local lifestyle and ecological balance. The distinct seasonal patterns, characterized by extreme UV levels and significant rainfall during the monsoon months, highlight the need for adaptive strategies in agriculture and sun protection for residents. With relatively stable daylight hours throughout the year and variations in temperature and sunshine, the region offers unique opportunities for agricultural practices while also presenting challenges that require careful management. Understanding these climatic intricacies is essential for fostering sustainable development and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.