Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Centre-Sud Burkina Faso is characterized by a Köppen-Geiger classification of BSh (semi-arid) and Aw (tropical savanna), revealing the region's diversity in climatic conditions. Temperatures exhibit significant seasonal variation, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) recorded in January, rising to an average of 29°C (84°F) throughout the year, and peaking at a scorching 43°C (110°F) in April. These temperature extremes, combined with the semi-arid landscape, underscore the challenges faced by the local communities and ecosystems, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies in response to a changing climate.
Temperature patterns in Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, exhibit a distinct seasonal progression throughout the year. January marks the onset of cooler weather with minimum temperatures around 15°C (59°F) and averages of 26°C (80°F), gradually warming into February. As the region transitions into the hotter months, March and April witness significant increases, peaking in April with maximums reaching 43°C (110°F) and averages of 34°C (93°F). The heat begins to recede in May, but remains high. From June to August, a slight relief is noted with average temperatures dipping to the mid-20s °C as the rainy season sets in. However, even during these months, maximum temperatures remain in the mid-30s °C. September through November sees a gradual return to warmer conditions, while December brings cooler temperatures once again, closing the cycle. This fluctuation underscores the region's semi-arid climate, with stark contrasts between the scorching dry season and the relatively milder rainy months.
In Burkina Faso, the towns of Sapone, Gaongo, and Po experience similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures around 15°C (59°F) in January and maximums soaring to approximately 43°C (110°F) in April. For more details, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Sapone here, in Gaongo here, and in Po here.
Precipitation in Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, shows a marked seasonal pattern, utilizing a distinct wet and dry cycle. The year begins with arid conditions, as January to March receive minimal rainfall, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) recorded in both February and March and 0 mm in January. As the region approaches the summer months, rainfall begins to increase, notably in April, which sees a slight uptick to 8 mm (0.3 in). By May, rainfall escalates significantly, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in), effectively marking the transition into the rainy season.
From June to September, precipitation peaks, with August experiencing the highest amount at 234 mm (9.2 in), accompanied by 25 rainy days. This period is crucial for the local agricultural cycle, as nearly 66% of the annual rainfall occurs during these months, providing vital moisture for crops. The rain begins to taper off in October, yielding 54 mm (2.1 in), while November and December return to dry conditions, each recording 0 mm. This climatic rhythm highlights the essential role of seasonal rains in sustaining the region's ecosystems and livelihoods.
In Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, sunshine duration reveals a striking seasonal pattern that aligns closely with the climate's wet and dry cycles. The year begins with January recording 266 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases as the region transitions into spring. A notable peak occurs in May, when sunshine hours reach 336, showcasing the dry and clear skies typical of this pre-rainy season. This upward trend continues into June, with only a slight reduction to 322 hours, underscoring the prevalent sunny days leading into the rainy months.
As the rainy season unfolds, July exhibits a slight decrease to 315 hours, but the lessening of sunshine does not significantly impact the overall luminescence during these months. August experiences the most notable drop with 271 hours, coinciding with the peak rainfall and cloud cover, signaling the region's shift toward total saturation. However, the following months see a recovery as September ushers in 298 hours of sunshine, and by October, the duration climbs back to 321 hours, ultimately remaining steady through November and December. This cyclical pattern emphasizes not only the dominance of sunshine during the drier months but also how seasonal transitions influence light availability throughout the year.
The UV Index in Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, presents a significant health consideration due to its consistently high values throughout the year. Starting from January, the UV Index registers at 11, categorized as extreme, and maintaining this level through February. As the region progresses into the hotter months, the index peaks during August and September at 14, indicating an intense risk for skin damage with an exposure burn time of just 10 minutes. The persistence of extreme UV levels underscores the importance of protective measures, especially for those engaging in outdoor activities during these months.
As the year draws to a close, the UV Index begins to decline gradually, dropping to 12 in October and shifting to 10 and 9 in November and December, respectively, where it falls to a very high classification. The extended periods of extreme UV exposure not only highlight the necessity for effective sun protection strategies but also draw attention to the potential long-term impacts on skin health in the region. With constant vigilance required against sun-related risks, it is crucial for residents and visitors alike to prioritize sun safety year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, showcases a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minimal variation that reflects the region's proximity to the equator. In the first part of the year, January and February both experience 11 hours of daylight, setting a consistent foundation for the months ahead. As the days progress into March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains steady from March through September. This extended daylight period during the mid-year months supports agricultural activities and enhances overall productivity.
As the year transitions into October, daylight duration returns to 11 hours, continuing this length into November and December. This cyclical shift from longer to shorter days underscores the region’s consistent equatorial climate, allowing local populations to plan their daily activities effectively around sunrise and sunset. The stability of daylight hours throughout the year not only facilitates farming schedules but also contributes to the daily rhythms of life in Centre-Sud, ensuring a reliable natural light environment for various endeavors.
The climate in Gaongo, Burkina Faso, is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From March to October, temperatures peak, with April recording averages of 34°C (93°F) and a maximum of 43°C (110°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, followed by a significant increase during the rainy season from June to September, with August
Kayao, Burkina Faso experiences a hot tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January marks the coolest month, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to a high of 39°C (102°F), while April often records the highest temperatures, peaking at 43°C (110°F). The region sees a marked increase in rainfall from May through September, reaching its peak in August with 226 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially from November to March, ensuring plenty of bright days. For more details, visit Kayao climate.
Kombissiri, Burkina Faso, experiences a hot tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a scorching 43°C (110°F) in April, with averages typically between 26°C (79°F) and 34°C (93°F). The rainy season peaks between June and August, with August seeing the highest rainfall at 231 mm (9.1 in). Despite the increased precipitation, the region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with May recording the most hours at 336. For more detailed climate information, visit Kombissiri climate.
Manga, Burkina Faso experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct wet season. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) in January to a high of 43°C (109°F) in April, with the hottest months being March and April. Rainfall is sparse from January to April, followed by a significant increase from May to September, peaking in August with 231 mm (9.1 in). Despite the rainfall, Manga enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with the highest sunshine hours recorded in May at 336 hours. For more details, visit Manga climate.
The climate in Po, Burkina Faso, is characterized by a hot and dry season from October to May, followed by a wet season from June to September. Temperatures can peak at 43°C (109°F) in April, while average monthly temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is minimal in the early months, but it significantly increases during the wet season, especially in August, which receives about 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 337 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Po climate.
The climate in Sapone, Burkina Faso, is characterized by a hot, dry season followed by a rainy season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (110°F) in April, with averages fluctuating between 26°C (79°F) and 33°C (92°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to April, with a significant increase during the summer months, peaking in August at 232 mm (9.1 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from February to May, accumulating over 336 hours in May alone. For more detailed information, visit Sapone climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso, is shaped by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences extreme temperatures during the dry season, followed by a significant rainy period that supports agricultural vitality. Sunshine hours peak in the drier months, while high UV Index readings throughout the year underscore the need for sun safety practices. Additionally, the consistent daylight duration allows for well-planned daily activities and farming cycles. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for local communities to adapt effectively and optimize their living conditions and agricultural productivity, ultimately enhancing resilience in the face of a changing climate.