Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Centre region in Cameroon is characterized by distinct Koppen-Geiger climate classifications: Aw (tropical savanna) and Am (tropical monsoon). This region experiences a significant temperature range, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) in January and soaring to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March. The average annual temperature hovers around 25°C (77°F), reflecting the region's warm tropical conditions and the variability associated with seasonal transitions.
In the Centre region of Cameroon, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm throughout the year. The coldest month is January, where temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F). As the year progresses into February and March, temperatures peak with maximums reaching 39°C (103°F), while the average remains relatively stable around 26-27°C (79-80°F). With the approach of the wet season, April through July sees a slight cooling trend, with maximums dropping to the low 30s°C (low 90s°F) and averages settling around 24°C (75°F). August through October continues this cooler pattern, yet temperatures gradually regain warmth in November and December, concluding the year with averages around 25-26°C (78-79°F), albeit with maximums still peaking at 34°C (94°F). Overall, the Centre region experiences a warm climate with notable fluctuations and a clear distinction between cooler rainy months and hotter dry periods.
In Yaoundé, the temperatures range significantly throughout the year, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) recorded in January and a peak of 35°C (96°F) in February. This variation highlights the city's warm climate, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare for both cooler and hotter conditions. For a detailed overview of monthly temperatures in Yaoundé, refer to the link: monthly temperatures in Yaounde.
Precipitation in the Centre region of Cameroon showcases a pronounced seasonal pattern, with rainfall increasing significantly from the start of the year. January experiences relatively low rainfall at 22 mm (0.9 in) over 4 days, but this figure doubles by February to 34 mm (1.4 in). The onset of the rainy season becomes evident in March, where precipitation surges to 103 mm (4.0 in), followed by a peak in May, with 166 mm (6.5 in) recorded over 24 days. This period marks the transition from dry to wet conditions, with April and May experiencing substantial rainfall, setting the stage for the heavier downpours of the following months.
As the wet season progresses into the summer months, precipitation remains elevated, with June and July receiving 154 mm (6.1 in) and 133 mm (5.2 in) respectively, alongside numerous rainy days—approximately 24 days each. August maintains similar rainfall patterns with 131 mm (5.2 in), while September reaches the season's peak with 191 mm (7.5 in) over 27 days. The rains persist into October, recording the highest monthly total of 226 mm (8.9 in), before subsiding in November and December. Overall, the Centre region exhibits a wet climate characterized by extended rainy periods, particularly from March through October, reflecting the inherent dynamics of a tropical monsoon environment.
Sunshine duration in the Centre region of Cameroon presents a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from the beginning of the year towards the summer months. Starting with 252 hours of sunshine in January and improving to 276 hours in February, the region experiences a notable rise in March, where the total reaches 299 hours. The peak sunshine month occurs in May, showcasing an impressive 302 hours of bright, sunny days, which signifies the transition into the warmer season. As the year progresses into June and July, sunshine remains abundant, albeit with a slight decrease, recording 294 hours and 283 hours, respectively, indicating that while the wet season begins, sunny intervals still prevail.
As the year approaches its conclusion, sunshine durations begin to fluctuate but largely remain robust. August experiences declining hours at 274, followed by September with 263 hours, hinting at the onset of increased cloud cover and rain typical of the transitioning season. However, October slightly rebounds with 280 hours, while November maintains 286 hours of sunshine, leading into December, which soars back to an impressive 303 hours. This pattern illustrates a dynamic interplay between rainy periods and sunny spells, highlighting the Centre region's unique climate where the dry and wet seasons coexist, ensuring a substantial amount of sun throughout the year despite fluctuations.
The UV Index in the Centre region of Cameroon consistently reveals high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, indicating extreme exposure risk for residents and visitors. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 12, the levels climb steadily, peaking at 15 in April. This month marks the highest risk, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures against sunburn, as the burn time for unprotected skin is just 10 minutes across all months. Following this peak, the UV Index remains notably high, between 12 and 14, during the late spring and summer months, underscoring the need for vigilance regarding sun safety practices during this period.
As the year progresses into the latter months, the UV Index maintains a relatively uniform pattern, with values around 12 to 13 from May through October. Only in December does the Index dip slightly to 11, but the exposure category still remains at extreme. This consistency in UV levels suggests that residents must continuously practice sun protection strategies to mitigate potential health risks. The sustained high UV Index serves as a reminder of the Centre region's intense tropical climate, necessitating awareness of the dangers posed by UV radiation year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in the Centre region of Cameroon showcases a striking consistency throughout the year, averaging around 11 to 12 hours daily. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February. As the months progress into March, the daylight hours extend to 12 hours, a duration that remains stable through the rainy season and into the dry months of June and July. This stability reflects the region's equatorial position, where day length does not fluctuate drastically with the changing seasons, offering residents ample opportunity for outdoor activities and farming.
However, as the year enters its final quarter, daylight duration tapers back to 11 hours in October and remains consistent through November and December. This gradual decline from the peak summer months serves as a reminder of the moderate changes in daylight experienced in tropical regions. Overall, the Centre region benefits from a fairly consistent amount of daylight, allowing for a predictable rhythm of activity throughout the seasons, despite the variations in weather and climatic conditions.
Yaoundé, Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from March to October. The average yearly temperature hovers around 24°C (75°F), with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The city receives its highest precipitation in October, totaling 251 mm (9.9 in), while January is the driest month with 34 mm (1.4 in). Sunshine is plentiful, especially in February, which enjoys up to 266 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Yaounde climate.
In conclusion, the Centre region of Cameroon exemplifies a dynamic yet predictable climate marked by stable temperature patterns, substantial precipitation, and consistent daylight duration throughout the year. The high UV Index underscores the need for sun protection due to extreme exposure levels, particularly during the peak months. The region's unique combination of wet and dry seasons, accompanied by robust sunlight and substantial rainfall, fosters a vibrant tropical environment that supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike, enabling them to adapt and thrive in this dynamic setting while ensuring proper precautions are taken against the elements.