Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of North-West Cameroon is characterized by two prominent Köppen-Geiger climate classes: Am (tropical monsoon) and Aw (tropical savannah). This region experiences a temperature range that varies significantly throughout the year, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January, rising to an average of 21°C (70°F). Peak temperatures occur in March, where the mercury can soar to a maximum of 36°C (98°F). The interplay of these climatic elements underscores the unique ecological and agricultural dynamics prevalent in this vibrant part of Cameroon.
In North-West Cameroon, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The year begins with relatively cooler conditions in January, where minimum temperatures drop to 8°C (47°F) and maximums reach 35°C (96°F). As February progresses, temperatures increase slightly, peaking at 36°C (98°F). The warmth persists into March, but by April, there is a subtle cooling trend, with max temperatures declining to 34°C (94°F). The onset of the rainy season in May and June sees a further reduction in maximum temperatures, stabilizing around 31°C (88°F), while minimums remain consistent between 14°C (57°F). July through September features the coolest monthly averages of about 20°C (68°F), reflecting the damp conditions of peak rainfall. As the year transitions into October and November, temperatures gradually rise again, culminating in a return to warmer temperatures by December, where averages hover around 21°C (71°F). Overall, the climate reveals a notable shift from a hot dry season to a cooler, wetter period, with temperatures consistently fluctuating within a relatively moderate range.
Bamenda experiences a temperature range from a chilly minimum of 9°C (48°F) in January to a warm maximum of 34°C (94°F) in March, reflecting the area's diverse climate throughout the early months of the year. For more detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperatures in Bamenda.
Precipitation patterns in North-West Cameroon are characterized by a clear seasonal distribution, marked by a significant increase from the beginning of the year to its peak during the rainy season. January starts off with minimal rainfall of only 16 mm (0.6 in), which escalates to 46 mm (1.8 in) in February. However, March signals the onset of heavier rains, with precipitation skyrocketing to 139 mm (5.5 in), culminating in a dramatic increase in April when the region receives 301 mm (11.9 in), setting the stage for a progressively wetter period.
The peak of the rainy season occurs between June and September, where monthly precipitation averages soar, illustrated by 459 mm (18.1 in) in September alone. This corresponds with a notable increase in rainy days, peaking at 29 days during the three months of July, August, and September. Following the height of the rainy season, October sees a decline in rainfall to 383 mm (15.1 in). By November and December, precipitation diminishes significantly, dropping to 125 mm (4.9 in) and a mere 6 mm (0.2 in), respectively. This pronounced seasonal variability underscores the monsoonal climate typical of North-West Cameroon, critical for both its agriculture and local ecosystems.
In North-West Cameroon, sunshine duration exhibits distinct seasonal trends, characterized by a steady increase during the onset of the year, culminating in peak hours as summer approaches. Beginning in January with 267 hours of sunshine, the region experiences a gradual rise in sunlight as February follows with 293 hours. This upward trajectory continues through March, reaching a high of 305 hours, before slightly tapering off in April to 275 hours. This pattern reflects the gradual transition from the cooler months to the warmer periods of the year, where ample sunlight paves the way for agricultural activities.
As the seasons progress, the summer months of June and July maintain relatively consistent sunshine durations at around 279 hours and 268 hours, respectively. However, a noticeable decline begins in late summer, particularly in September, when sunshine hours drop to 240 hours—the lowest of the year. This reduction aligns with the peak rainy season, limiting direct sunlight exposure. Nevertheless, the year closes on a bright note, with November boasting 301 hours and December further increasing to 331 hours. This variation in sunshine duration reveals the region's unique climate dynamics, enhancing both its ecological function and agricultural productivity.
The UV Index in North-West Cameroon consistently indicates extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, presenting significant implications for sun exposure and health. The index reaches its annual peak in April at 15, while the first quarter of the year is marked by similar high levels, with values of 12 to 14 from January to May. Despite a slight decrease in May, the index remains perilously high, suggesting that individuals should practice rigorous sun protection measures. Importantly, the burn time remains constant at just 10 minutes, warning of the urgent need for precautions even with minimal sun exposure.
As the year progresses into the summer months, the UV Index stabilizes around 13, continuing to reflect the extreme exposure risk. Through September and October, the values remain unchanged, maintaining a severe level of solar radiation that calls for vigilance. Even as the year winds down into November and December, the index only moderately decreases, registering 12 and 11, respectively. Frequent exposure during these months can still lead to harmful skin effects if protective measures are not observed, reinforcing the importance of consistent UV awareness year-round in this region.
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In North-West Cameroon, daylight duration demonstrates a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor variations across the months. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, indicating a consistent period of sunlight during the cooler dry season. As March arrives, daylight increases to 12 hours, and this duration is maintained through the summer months of April to September, allowing for ample time to engage in agricultural and outdoor activities. This consistency in daylight duration aligns with the region's tropical climate, fostering growth and productivity during these months.
As the year transitions into October, daylight begins to taper off once again, returning to 11 hours in the final quarter of the year. This reduction continues into November and December, marking a shift back to shorter daylight durations as the dry season approaches. Despite these fluctuations, the variation remains minimal, with only brief changes in daylight hours experienced throughout the year. This steady pattern provides a reliable rhythm for residents and ecosystems alike, influenced by the region’s latitude and consistent climatic conditions.
Bamenda, Cameroon experiences a tropical highland climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January temperatures range from 9°C to 33°C, while the wettest months, June to September, see maximum rainfall reaching 383 mm in September. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in December with 331 hours. The city’s climate is ideal for lush vegetation, making it a unique destination in the region. For more details, visit the Bamenda climate.
In summary, North-West Cameroon presents a unique climatic profile characterized by extreme UV radiation, consistent daylight duration, and distinct seasonal trends in temperature and precipitation. The region’s marked fluctuations in sunshine hours and UV Index throughout the year underline the importance of sun protection and awareness, especially during the peak months of March through June. Despite a stable daylight duration that supports agricultural practices and daily activities, the extreme weather conditions necessitate adaptive measures for residents. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for promoting public health, optimizing agricultural productivity, and preserving the region's rich biodiversity, ensuring that the population can thrive in a challenging yet vibrant environment.