Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of Burkina Faso is characterized by significant variations in temperature, precipitation, and humidity across its regions. In the Sahel, January sees temperatures dip to a minimum of 10°C (51°F), while May experiences scorching highs of up to 46°C (114°F). Precipitation markedly fluctuates, with December recording no rainfall in the Centre-Est, contrasting sharply with August's deluge of 282 mm (11.1 in) in the Cascades. Humidity levels also vary, reaching an arid 8% in February in the Plateau-Central, and peaking at a humid 89% in September in the Sud-Ouest. These climatic distinctions play a crucial role in shaping the region's ecosystems and agricultural practices.
Burkina Faso's diverse climate zones can be categorized under the Köppen-Geiger classification, showcasing its rich environmental tapestry. The BSh (semi-arid) climate predominates in regions like Centre, Centre-Nord, and Nord, while Aw (tropical savanna) zones are found in areas such as Cascades, Centre-Est, and Hauts-Bassins. The unique Sahel region features both BSh and BWh (arid) climates, emphasizing the varying degrees of aridity across the landscape. Meanwhile, the Centre-Ouest and Centre-Sud exhibit a mix of BSh and Aw climates, illustrating the interplay of dry and wet seasons. For a deeper exploration of specific regions, discover the Boucle du Mouhoun, Est, and Sud-Ouest climates through their respective links, each offering distinct weather patterns that shape the lives and livelihoods of their inhabitants.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Throughout the year, Burkina Faso experiences a striking range of temperatures, showcasing its diverse climate. January kicks off with cool nights at 10°C (51°F) in the Sahel, but by midday, the heat surges to a scorching 40°C (104°F) in the eastern regions. As February approaches, temperatures rise slightly, with nightly lows around 13°C (56°F) in the Nord and daytime highs peaking at 41°C (105°F) in Boucle du Mouhoun. March intensifies the heat, boasting maximum temperatures soaring to 44°C (111°F), while nightly lows in the Sahel reach 15°C (60°F). The heat further escalates in April and May, with maximums hitting a staggering 45°C (113°F) and 46°C (114°F), respectively, highlighting the searing days. In the following months, cooler nights persist, particularly around 20°C (68°F) in June and July, while maximums remain impressively high. The transition to late summer in August and September sees a slight dip in temperatures, though daytime highs hover in the low 40s°C. As the dry season approaches in October and November, temperatures begin to cool down, reaching 17°C (63°F) at night and maximums around 42°C (108°F). By December, the cycle renews with cooler minimums of 13°C (56°F) in the Nord and maximums of 39°C (102°F) in the Est. Overall, the temperature pattern throughout the year showcases the extreme heat and the brief respite of cooler months, underscoring Burkina Faso’s distinct climatic character.
In Burkina Faso, precipitation patterns reveal striking contrasts throughout the year and across regions. Generally, the dry season peaks in December, where places like Centre-Est experience minimal rainfall, with amounts dropping to an arid 0 mm. Conversely, the rainy season brings significant moisture, particularly in August, where the Cascades region enjoys a substantial average of 282 mm over an impressive 27 days of rain. This seasonal variability highlights the shift from dry spells to intense wet periods, emphasizing the crucial role of August as a key month for replenishing water resources in the country. Such fluctuations not only influence agriculture but also shape the overall climate dynamics throughout Burkina Faso.
Burkina Faso experiences significant fluctuations in humidity levels throughout the year, showcasing a climate that shifts dramatically from one season to another. In the dry month of February, the humidity plunges to a low of 8% in the Plateau-Central region, creating arid conditions that accompany the dry season. In stark contrast, the humid monsoon season in September sees humidity levels soaring to a peak of 89% in the Sud-Ouest area. This dramatic swing not only affects daily life for residents but also plays a crucial role in the agricultural practices and water resource management throughout the nation.
In Burkina Faso, the UV Index (UVI) exhibits a notable peak during the month of August, with both the Sahel and Hauts-Bassins regions recording an average daily maximum UVI of 14. This trend indicates a consistent pattern across these areas, highlighting the intense solar exposure that characterizes this period. As the summer months approach, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect themselves from potential UV risks, especially in regions where the sun's rays are particularly strong.
UV Risk Categories
Burkina Faso enjoys a remarkable amount of sunshine throughout the year, with notable regional variations. In January, the Sahel region receives 262 hours of sunlight, slightly less than the 267 hours experienced in the Centre-Est. However, as the year progresses, sunshine peaks dramatically in May, reaching a remarkable 335 hours in the Centre-Est. This trend of increasing sunshine continues into the summer, with the Sahel basking in 340 hours of bright sunlight in July. This consistent abundance of sunshine not only underscores the country’s vibrant climate but also highlights the significant role of regional differences in solar exposure across Burkina Faso.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in Burkina Faso, a distinct trend emerges across the seasons. For instance, the Sud-Ouest region experiences a mere 13% probability of sunshine in August, highlighting a much cloudier and wetter period. In contrast, the Est region boasts an impressive 91% chance of sunny days in January, making it the pinnacle of clear skies during the year. This stark contrast not only reflects the diverse climatic conditions across the country but also suggests that travelers seeking sun should plan their visits accordingly, leaning towards the dry months in the east for the best experience.
In Burkina Faso's Sahel region, daylight hours exhibit a notable fluctuation between the seasons. During December, the days shorten to about 11 hours, creating cooler evenings that are characteristic of the dry season. Conversely, when June arrives, the length of daylight increases to approximately 12 hours, providing more time for outdoor activities amidst the warmer, wetter climate. This gradual shift in daylight hours highlights the dynamic interplay between the seasons, influencing both lifestyle and agricultural practices in the region.
Boucle du Mouhoun, Burkina Faso, experiences a hot, predominantly dry climate with the hottest months being April and May, where temperatures can soar up to an overwhelming 45°C (113°F). Humidity begins to rise in May, drastically increasing to around 83% by July and August, coinciding with the region's peak rainfall, often reaching 227 mm. This seasonal shift transforms the landscape, breathing life into the surroundings, but also making the heat feel even more intense. With a minimal rainy season from January to April, visitors should prepare for both the sweltering days and the refreshing downpours typical of mid-year. For detailed insights into the nuances of the weather, explore the Boucle du Mouhoun climate.
The climate in Cascades, Burkina Faso is characterized by a striking range of temperatures and seasonal shifts in precipitation. From January to March, residents enjoy warm days with highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F), though as the rainy season approaches in late April, humidity begins to increase significantly. June through August sees the heaviest rainfall, with August alone recording around 282 mm (11.1 in), resulting in a lush transformation of the landscape. Despite this peak in precipitation, the region experiences cooler temperatures, averaging 25°C (77°F) in August, making it a refreshing change from the scorching heat of the pre-rainy months. For a more detailed look into this unique climate, visit Cascades climate.
The climate in Centre, Burkina Faso, showcases a dramatic shift from dry heat to tropical rains throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures steadily rise, peaking in April with highs reaching 44°C (111°F), while the humidity remains low. As the rains begin in late May and escalate to their peak in August, temperatures drop slightly, accompanied by increased humidity, creating a more tropical atmosphere. The transition back to dry conditions in October marks the end of a vibrant rainy season, leading into the cooler months of December, where you can experience pleasant daytime temperatures around 26°C (80°F). For a deeper dive into this fascinating climate, visit Centre climate.
The climate in Centre-Est, Burkina Faso is characterized by a distinct hot season followed by a brief rainy period. From January to April, temperatures soar, reaching a sweltering 43°C (111°F) in April, while humidity levels remain relatively low. As the rains arrive in May, temperatures moderate slightly, but humidity rises dramatically, peaking in the humid months of July and August. During this time, downpours transform the landscape, with August witnessing the heaviest rainfall at 225 mm (8.8 in). For an in-depth look at the region's weather patterns, visit Centre-Est climate.
The climate in Centre-Nord, Burkina Faso is characterized by extreme temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. From January to May, temperatures soar to a peak in April and May, reaching up to 45°C (113°F), while humidity gradually rises. The rainy season kicks off in June, with July bringing the heaviest rainfall of about 104 mm (4.1 in) and the highest humidity, reaching 75%. As the season progresses into August and September, the heat softens, giving way to a more moderate climate with temperatures averaging around 28°C (83°F). For more detailed insights, visit Centre-Nord climate.
In the Centre-Ouest region of Burkina Faso, temperatures soar in the dry months from January to April, reaching highs of 43°C (109°F). As the rainy season arrives in May, humidity escalates, peaking in the lush months of July and August, when the region receives substantial rainfall—up to 225 mm (8.9 in). The climate shifts again in September, with cooler temperatures and a gradual decline in precipitation, leading to a drier autumn. Despite the blistering heat, the annual cycle of alternating wet and dry periods creates a vibrant ecosystem, underscoring the region's unique climatic charm. For more details, visit Centre-Ouest climate.
The climate in Centre-Sud, Burkina Faso showcases a striking contrast between scorching heat and seasonal rains. Temperatures soar from a balmy 26°C (80°F) in January to a sweltering 43°C (110°F) in April, while the humid months from June to September see averages dip to a cooler 27°C (81°F), accompanied by increased rain. Humidity peaks at an uncomfortable 87% during the wettest months of August and September, transforming the landscape and supporting lush vegetation. While the dry season stretches from November to February, offering minimal precipitation, the rains awaken the region’s vibrancy come May. For more insights, visit Centre-Sud climate.
The climate in Est, Burkina Faso, is characterized by a distinct dry season and a lively wet season, making it an intriguing destination. From January to April, temperatures soar, peaking at a sweltering 44°C (112°F) in April, while humidity remains low, creating a stark contrast with the following months. As the rainy season commences in June, the landscape transforms, bringing invigorating rain and higher humidity levels, peaking in August with 83% humidity and over 200 mm of rainfall. This seasonal shift not only cools the air but also breathes life into the region's vibrant flora. For a deeper dive into the nuances of this climate, explore Est climate.
The climate in Hauts-Bassins, Burkina Faso is characterized by a striking contrast between sweltering heat and the distinct wet season. From the scorching highs of 44°C (111°F) in April to the more moderate temperatures of 27°C (80°F) in the rainy months, the region experiences significant fluctuations throughout the year. Precipitation begins modestly in March, escalating dramatically to 250 mm (9.8 in) in August, accompanied by soaring humidity levels, peaking at 88% during this time. As the dry season approaches in December, temperatures remain warm, while moisture levels drop back to a comfortable 12%. For a more detailed overview, explore the Hauts-Bassins climate.
In Nord, Burkina Faso, the climate is characterized by a distinctly hot and dry pattern, particularly in the months leading up to the rainy season. January and February are marked by cooler temperatures, with averages hovering around 24°C (75°F) and 27°C (81°F), while March to May sees a dramatic rise, with peaks reaching up to 45°C (113°F) in May. The wet season, spanning from June to September, brings a drastic shift, culminating in the highest rainfall in August, where the region receives approximately 188 mm (7.4 in) of precipitation. This period also sees humidity levels soaring, reaching up to 82% in August, contributing to the sultry atmosphere. To learn more about the unique climate conditions in this fascinating region, visit Nord climate.
The climate of Plateau-Central, Burkina Faso is characterized by a distinct dry season followed by a wet season, showcasing extreme temperature variations. From January to April, the mercury soars, peaking at an impressive 44°C (111°F) in April, while humidity remains low, at around 9-27%. The shift begins in May with the onset of rains, leading to a dramatic increase in precipitation during the summer months—August alone receives nearly 215mm (8.4 in). This wet season brings relief from the sweltering heat, as temperatures drop to a more temperate range, averaging around 27-30°C (81-87°F) in July and August. To explore more about this intriguing climate, visit Plateau-Central climate.
The Sahel region of Burkina Faso experiences a stark climate characterized by extreme temperatures and limited rainfall. From January to March, temperatures rise significantly, hitting a scorching 45°C (113°F) by April, while the humidity remains quite low, often around 11-20%. The rainy season begins in June, with precipitation peaking in August at 141 mm (5.6 in), leading to an increase in humidity levels to a muggy 77%. As the dry season returns by November, temperatures remain high, but humidity drops significantly, creating a unique contrast in this vibrant landscape. For a deeper understanding of this dynamic climate, explore more at Sahel climate.
Located in Sud-Ouest, Burkina Faso, the climate is characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The year begins with mild temperatures in January, where lows of 16°C (60°F) gradually rise to a scorching 43°C (110°F) by April. As the rainy season sets in from June to September, the region experiences a significant increase in humidity and precipitation, with August receiving the highest rainfall of 228 mm (9.0 in). Despite the heat and moisture during the summer months, the cooler and drier conditions from November to January provide a refreshing contrast for locals and visitors alike. To explore more about the region's climate, check out Sud-Ouest climate.
The climate of Burkina Faso reveals striking contrasts, marked by extreme temperatures and variable precipitation patterns throughout the year. In the Sahel, temperatures can soar to a sweltering 46°C (114°F) in May, while dipping to a cool 10°C (51°F) in January. This temperature variability is mirrored in the country's rainfall, with August in the Cascades region witnessing an impressive 282 mm (11.1 in) of precipitation, compared to a stark 0 mm (0.0 in) in December in the Centre-Est. Humidity levels also fluctuate dramatically, with an arid 8% in February in the Plateau-Central contrasting sharply with the tropical peak of 89% in September in the Sud-Ouest. These trends highlight the diverse climatic challenges faced by the population, shaping agricultural practices and daily life across the nation.