Last updated: January 18, 2025
The Centre-Est region of Burkina Faso is characterized by a tropical savanna climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. This area experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations, with January temperatures dropping to a minimum of 15°C (59°F), while average temperatures hover around 29°C (85°F). Notably, the region faces exceptionally high temperatures during the peak of the dry season in April, with maxima reaching up to 43°C (111°F). These climatic conditions influence both the local ecosystem and the livelihoods of its inhabitants, underscoring the need for sustainable adaptation strategies.
In Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by a hot dry season followed by a cooler wet period. January marks the onset of the year with cooler nights, featuring minimum temperatures around 15°C (59°F), gradually warming into the spring months. As the dry season progresses into April, temperatures peak, reaching maximums of 43°C (111°F), accompanied by an average high of 34°C (93°F). May continues this trend, although temperatures slightly dip towards the end of the month. As the region transitions into the rainy season from June to August, average temperatures decline, with July recording the lowest average of 27°C (82°F). This period is characterized by milder maximum temperatures, before rising again in October and November as the dry season returns, culminating in another peak around 39°C (103°F) in November. The annual cycle showcases a significant temperature variation that profoundly influences the local climate and ecosystem.
In the region of Centre-Est Burkina Faso, Koupela experiences a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) in January, while reaching a maximum of 43°C (111°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Koupela. Similarly, both Ouargaye and Tenkodogo have minimum temperatures of 16°C (60°F) in January, with maximum temperatures peaking at 43°C (109°F) in April, as shown in their respective monthly temperatures in Ouargaye and monthly temperatures in Tenkodogo.
The precipitation pattern in Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, is marked by a pronounced dry season followed by a wet season, reflecting the region's tropical savanna climate. From January to March, rainfall is minimal, with January receiving no precipitation and February only recording 2 mm (0.1 in). As the dry season progresses into April, there is a slight increase to 7 mm (0.3 in), but the region still experiences predominantly dry days, with only two days of rainfall that month. The shift towards the wet season becomes evident in May, where precipitation jumps to 36 mm (1.4 in), followed by a more substantial increase in June, which sees 65 mm (2.6 in) over eight rainy days.
July and August are the peak months for rainfall, with August receiving 225 mm (8.8 in) spread across 24 days, making it the wettest month of the year. This period not only replenishes the soil but also supports agricultural activities essential for local livelihoods. The precipitation begins to taper off in September with 138 mm (5.4 in), followed by a significant drop in October to 41 mm (1.6 in). By November and December, the rainfall ceases completely, with no recorded precipitation during these months, thus reinstating the dry conditions until the cycle begins anew.
In Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal trend characterized by an increase through the early months of the year, culminating in peak sunlight during the late spring. Starting at 267 hours in January, the region experiences consistent growth in sunshine hours, reaching 335 hours by May. This upward trajectory indicates the region's approach to the hot, dry season, with March and April witnessing particularly high levels of sunlight, recorded at 323 hours and 319 hours, respectively. This abundance of sunshine sets the stage for vibrant agricultural activities, essential for the local economy.
As the wet season commences in June through August, sunshine hours begin to decline, though June retains a substantial 319 hours. The most significant drop occurs in August, where the hours of sunlight fall to 273 hours, likely influenced by increased cloud cover and precipitation. Interestingly, sunshine duration climbs back up in September, reaching 296 hours, and maintains a relatively high level into the latter months of the year, with November and December recording 319 hours and 329 hours, respectively. This trend suggests that although the rainy season brings less sunlight, the latter part of the year continues to benefit from an ample amount of clear days, contributing to a favorable climate for both crops and communities in Centre-Est.
The UV Index in Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, displays consistently high levels throughout the year, reflecting the region's intense solar radiation exposure. From January to May, the UV Index remains in the extreme category, peaking at 13 in April and maintaining similar values into June. During these months, individuals are advised to limit sun exposure to as little as 10 minutes, which highlights the urgent need for protective measures such as sunscreen and clothing. This period aligns with the dry season and high temperatures, which contribute to the elevated UV readings and necessitate increased awareness of sun safety.
As the rainy season approaches in July and August, the UV Index reaches its zenith, with a record high of 14 in August, requiring the same cautious approach to sun exposure. Despite a slight decrease to 12 in October, the UV levels remain significant. Notably, November and December reflect a reduction to the very high category, with values dropping to 10 and 9, respectively, and slightly extended burn times of 15 minutes. This transition into the cooler months signals a brief respite from the extreme UV levels but still calls for vigilant sun safety practices as the risks remain high even in the latter part of the year.
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In Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that reflect the region's geographic position. During the months of January and February, daylight lasts for 11 hours, providing a steady amount of light as the year begins. March marks the transition to slightly longer days, extending to 12 hours, and this duration is maintained consistently from April through September. The consistent daylight of 12 hours during these months underscores the region's tropical climate, allowing for ample time for agricultural activities and community life.
As the year progresses into October, November, and December, daylight begins to wane again, reverting to 11 hours. This decrease signals the approach of the cooler months, characterized by less intense sunlight. Although there is a dip in total daylight hours, the consistency of the 11 to 12 hours year-round provides a reliable rhythm for farming and natural ecosystems. Overall, the relatively stable daylight duration in Centre-Est enhances the predictability of environmental conditions, making it conducive for both agriculture and daily life throughout the year.
Garango, Burkina Faso, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. The hottest months are typically March and April, with average highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F) in April. Rainfall peaks in July and August, with August recording an average of 231 mm (9.1 in). Despite the wet season, the region enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, averaging over 300 hours per month in several months. For more detailed information, visit Garango climate.
Koupela, Burkina Faso experiences a hot tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round and a distinct wet season. From March to August, temperatures peak, reaching an average maximum of 42°C (109°F) in April, while the rainy season culminates in August with 216 mm (8.5 in) of precipitation. The winter months, particularly from November to February, see lower thermal averages and minimal rainfall, averaging around 0-5 mm. Despite the heat, sunshine is abundant, especially in the drier months, providing up to 337 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Koupela climate.
Ouargaye, Burkina Faso, experiences a hot climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. January marks the coolest month with temperatures ranging from 16°C (60°F) to a high of 39°C (103°F), while April sees the highest temperatures, reaching up to 43°C (109°F). The rainy season spans from June to September, with August being the wettest month, recording 223 mm (8.8 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant year-round, peaking in March with 322 hours. For more detailed information, visit Ouargaye climate.
Tenkodogo, Burkina Faso experiences a predominantly hot climate, with January to March witnessing peak temperatures, where averages reach up to 34°C (93°F) in April. Rainfall is scarce at the beginning of the year, with significant increases from June to September, peaking in August at 229 mm (9.0 in). The dry months of November and December see no precipitation, while sunshine remains abundant year-round, especially in March and May, with over 330 hours. Overall, Tenkodogo's climate is characterized by its high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. For more detailed information, visit Tenkodogo climate.
In conclusion, the climatic conditions in Centre-Est, Burkina Faso, are defined by a distinct seasonal cycle that influences temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region experiences extreme temperatures during the dry season, coupled with significant rainfall during the wet months, creating a dynamic environment for both agriculture and local communities. With high UV indices year-round, sun safety remains a critical concern, particularly during the peak sunshine months. Meanwhile, the consistent daylight duration provides a reliable framework for daily activities and agricultural practices. Collectively, these climatic factors underscore the importance of sustainable management and adaptation strategies to ensure the resilience of both the ecosystem and the livelihoods dependent on it.