Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of East Cameroon primarily falls under the Köppen-Geiger classification of Aw, indicative of a tropical savanna. This region experiences a significant temperature range, with minimum temperatures dipping to 13°C (55°F) in January, and soaring to maximum temperatures of 39°C (102°F) in February. The average temperature throughout the year stabilizes around 24°C (76°F), illustrating the region's warm and often humid conditions that are characteristic of this climate type. These elements combine to create a unique environmental backdrop, influencing both biodiversity and human activities within the region.
In East Cameroon, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal fluctuations throughout the year. January marks the beginning of the year with cooler temperatures, as minimums can drop to 13°C (55°F), gradually rising towards February, which often experiences the hottest temperatures, peaking at 39°C (102°F). As the months progress into the wet season, March maintains relatively high averages of 26°C (80°F) before temperatures begin a slight decline. From June to August, the region experiences its coolest phase, with lows around 18°C (64°F) and highs stabilizing in the low 30s°C (mid-90s°F), coinciding with increased rainfall. September and October continue this trend of mild temperatures, while November brings a resurgence of warmth before transitioning back to the cooler averages in December, highlighting a cycle of warmth and moderate cooling that characterizes the region's tropical savanna climate.
In Batouri, temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in February, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Batouri. Similarly, Dimako experiences a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January and peaks at 38°C (100°F) in February, which can be explored further in the monthly temperatures in Dimako. Meanwhile, Abong Mbang shows a consistent pattern with a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) in January and a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in March, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Abong Mbang.
Precipitation patterns in East Cameroon reveal a marked wet season that spans from March to October, characterized by increasing rainfall and frequency of rainy days. January experiences negligible precipitation at just 6 mm (0.2 in), and February follows with a slight increase to 19 mm (0.8 in), setting the stage for the substantial rise observed in March, when monthly rainfall surges to 72 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days. April and May see this trend continue, with rainfall peaking at 139 mm (5.5 in) and 159 mm (6.3 in) respectively, highlighting the arrival of the rainy season.
As the wet season progresses, East Cameroon experiences its highest precipitation in October, totaling 236 mm (9.3 in) across 26 days, followed closely by September at 199 mm (7.8 in). The consistency of rainfall during these months, averaging around 22-26 rainy days, significantly contrasts with the drier months at the beginning and end of the year. November marks a decline in precipitation to 106 mm (4.2 in), while December sees a steep drop back to 14 mm (0.5 in), concluding the rainy season and reinforcing the region's distinct annual climatic cycle.
In East Cameroon, sunshine duration showcases a noticeable increase during the early months of the year, culminating in vibrant sunshine totals that significantly influence the region's climate. Starting with 270 hours in January, sunshine hours steadily rise, reaching 320 hours in March, reflecting the transition into the wet season. This trend persists into April and May, where despite increased cloud cover, the hours of sunshine remain relatively high at 312 and 316 hours respectively. This prelude to the rainy season highlights a unique climatic phase where the landscape is abundant with sunlight, setting the stage for the onset of rain.
As the year progresses, a subtle decline in sunshine hours is observed during the mid-year months, with July witnessing 287 hours and August further decreasing to 278 hours. However, even these lower totals remain significant, capturing the essence of the wet season's impact on sunlight exposure. Interestingly, a recovery is noted in the latter part of the year, with November yielding 309 hours and December peaking at 330 hours, indicating a restored clarity as the dry season approaches. Overall, the annual pattern illustrates a distinct sine wave of sunlight hours, underscoring seasonal changes that profoundly influence the region's ecological and agricultural rhythms.
The UV Index in East Cameroon consistently highlights a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout the year, with values classified as "extreme." Beginning at 12 in January, the index climbs steadily to its peak in April at 15, indicating that individuals are recommended to take particular precautions, as even short exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. This extreme UV exposure is notably pronounced during the first half of the year, with March and May also displaying similar readings of 14, emphasizing the need for sun safety measures during these months.
As the year transitions into the latter half, the UV Index remains elevated but drops slightly, stabilizing around 11 to 13 during the post-peak months. Notably, November and December linger at 11, signaling a minor reprieve from the most intense UV radiation. However, even in these months, the "extreme" exposure category persists, reminding residents and visitors alike of the importance of sun protection year-round. This consistent pattern not only influences daily activities but also underscores the significance of health advisories in mitigating the risks associated with high UV exposure in tropical climates.
UV Risk Categories
In East Cameroon, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, characterized by a consistent range of 11 to 12 hours of sunlight daily. During the initial months of the year—January and February—daylight is at its shortest, remaining at 11 hours. As the region progresses into March, daylight increases slightly to 12 hours, a trend that continues uninterrupted through June. This period of extended daylight coincides with the peak of the rainy season, providing ample time for plants to photosynthesize and thrive despite the cloud cover.
As the year transitions into the latter half, daylight duration reverts back to 11 hours in October and remains consistent through November and December. This symmetrical oscillation of daylight highlights East Cameroon's equatorial positioning, where variation in sunlight is minimal, allowing for relatively similar day lengths year-round. The consistent availability of daylight contributes to the region's rich biodiversity and agricultural productivity, creating a stable environment for both flora and fauna to flourish throughout the seasons.
Abong Mbang, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate with distinct temperature variations throughout the year. January typically sees minimum temperatures around 13°C (55°F) and maxing at 34°C (93°F), while the rainy season peaks from April to October, with October receiving significant rainfall of 207 mm (8.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and April, with over 300 hours of sun per month. This climate encourages lush vegetation and a vibrant ecosystem. For more details, visit Abong Mbang climate.
Batouri, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in February. The wettest months are from April to October, with October receiving the highest precipitation at 241 mm (9.5 in). Despite the rain, sunlight is abundant, particularly in March and May, which boast around 325–326 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Batouri climate.
Belabo, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from March to October. January averages a mild 25°C (77°F), while temperatures peak in February at 26°C (79°F) and can reach up to 38°C (101°F) later in the season. Rainfall is heaviest from May to October, with October receiving about 300 mm (11.8 in). The area enjoys considerable sunshine, with March boasting the most hours at 319, providing a vibrant ecosystem throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Belabo climate.
Bertoua, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by a warm temperature range throughout the year, with average monthly temperatures fluctuating from 24°C (75°F) to 27°C (80°F). The hottest months are February and March, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 38°C (101°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. Rainfall is significant, particularly from April to October, with October receiving the highest precipitation at 234 mm (9.2 in). Despite the rains, Bertoua enjoys ample sunshine, especially in December, with 329 hours of sunshine recorded. For more detailed information, visit Bertoua climate.
Betare Oya, Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. Monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in February, with averages hovering around 25-27°C (77-80°F). Rainfall peaks from April to October, with September and October receiving the highest amounts at 245 mm (9.6 in) and 255 mm (10.1 in), respectively. Despite the rainy season, there is a substantial amount of sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 335 hours in December. For a more detailed overview, visit Betare Oya climate.
The climate in Dimako, Cameroon, is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to 38°C (100°F) in February. Rainfall is significantly higher from March to October, peaking in October with 252 mm (9.9 in) of precipitation, while the driest months are January and December. Dimako enjoys substantial sunshine, with the sunniest month being December, featuring 329 hours of sunlight. This tropical climate supports lush vegetation and a rich biodiversity. For more details, visit Dimako climate.
Doume, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by a range of temperatures and significant rainfall. January sees mild temperatures with averages around 25°C (77°F) and minimal precipitation of 7 mm, while the hottest months, February and March, can reach up to 37°C (99°F) with increasing rainfall peaking in May at 146 mm. The rainy season spans from April to October, with September and October recording the highest rainfall. Despite the wet season, sunshine remains abundant, particularly in December with 329 hours. For more detailed information, visit Doume climate.
Garoua Boulai, Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January and February are typically the hottest months, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 37°C (100°F), while June to August sees cooler averages around 22°C (72°F). The wet season occurs from March to October, peaking in September with 248 mm (9.8 in) of rainfall, whereas January and December are the driest months. Abundant sunshine is prevalent, with over 300 hours of sun in most months, particularly in December with 335 hours. For more detailed information, visit Garoua Boulai climate.
Mbang, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in February and March. The rainy season lasts from March to October, with September recording the highest rainfall at 196 mm (7.7 in), while January is the driest month with only 6 mm (0.3 in). Notably, sunshine hours peak in December with 326 hours, providing ample sunlight throughout the year. For more details, visit Mbang climate.
Ndelele, Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from April to October. January sees the coolest temperatures, with averages around 25°C (77°F), while the hottest months, February and March, can peak at 37°C (99°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with October recording the highest rainfall at 204 mm (8.0 in). Despite the rainy season, Ndelele enjoys ample sunshine, with December featuring the most sunshine hours at 333. For more details, visit Ndelele climate.
Yokadouma, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) to 26°C (79°F), with maximum temperatures peaking at 36°C (97°F) in February and March. Precipitation is heaviest from September to October, with October receiving a significant 242 mm (9.5 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from December to March, boasting up to 330 hours of sunshine in December. For more detailed information, visit Yokadouma climate.
In conclusion, the climate and daylight patterns in East Cameroon present a dynamic and consistent environmental framework that significantly influences both ecological systems and human activities. With a steady temperature range, pronounced seasonal rainfall, and stable daylight duration throughout the year, the region is well-suited for diverse biological productivity and agricultural practices. The extreme UV Index highlights the importance of sun safety, while the consistent exposure to sunlight fosters a vibrant ecosystem. Understanding these climatic and environmental nuances is essential for effectively managing resources, safeguarding health, and promoting sustainable development in this tropical region.