Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of North Cameroon, classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Aw (Savanna Climate), is characterized by a distinct seasonal variation in temperature. With a minimum temperature dropping to 13°C (56°F) in January, the region exhibits a moderate winter period. The average temperature throughout the year hovers around a warm 29°C (84°F), reflecting the tropical essence of the area. Notably, the maximum temperature can soar to an extreme 44°C (112°F) in April, showcasing the intense heat that defines the pre-rainy season. This climatic profile underscores the diverse weather patterns experienced in this part of Cameroon, influenced by both geographical and seasonal factors.
Temperature patterns in North Cameroon reveal a marked seasonal fluctuation throughout the year. The cooler months of January and February present minimums of 13°C (56°F) and 16°C (60°F), respectively, while average temperatures gradually rise from 26°C (79°F) to 28°C (83°F). As the region transitions into the hotter months of March and April, temperatures spike significantly, reaching maximums of 44°C (111°F) and 44°C (112°F); average temperatures peak at 33°C (92°F) in April. Following this extreme heat, May witnesses a slight cooling trend, with averages descending to 31°C (88°F) before stabilizing around the low 30s °C during the wet season from June to August. Here, temperatures remain relatively consistent, with maximums ranging from 35°C (95°F) in August to 40°C (104°F) in June. As the year progresses into October, November, and December, temperatures again decrease, with minimums falling to 15°C (59°F) in November, providing a balanced climatic experience that combines sweltering heat with cooler, more pleasant months.
In Poli, temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in March, while Guider experiences similar January lows of 14°C (58°F) but reaches a higher peak of 44°C (111°F) in April. Garoua shares the same January minimum of 14°C (58°F) and also peaks at 44°C (111°F) in April. For more details, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Poli here, Guider here, and Garoua here.
Precipitation patterns in North Cameroon are characterized by distinct dry and wet seasons. From January to March, the region experiences negligible rainfall, with no precipitation recorded in January and February and only 1 mm (0.0 in) in March. This dry spell sets the stage for the onset of the rainy season, which dramatically intensifies starting in April with 9 mm (0.3 in) of rainfall. May marks a significant increase in precipitation, featuring 61 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 9 rainy days, as the region transitions into the more humid summer months.
As the rainy season progresses into June, July, and August, North Cameroon receives the highest levels of precipitation, with 124 mm (4.9 in), 154 mm (6.1 in), and 227 mm (8.9 in), respectively. August is particularly notable for its heavy rainfall, averaging 24 rainy days, leading to an overall lush environment. The precipitation decreases again in September and October, with 165 mm (6.5 in) and 73 mm (2.9 in) of rainfall occurring on 21 and 10 days of rain, respectively. By November and December, the rainy season retreats, yielding minimal precipitation levels of 2 mm (0.1 in) and returning to dry conditions.
In North Cameroon, sunshine duration exhibits noticeable seasonal patterns that reflect the region's climatic transitions. Beginning in January with 273 hours of sunshine, the hours steadily increase as the months progress, peaking in March at 335 hours. This period indicates a gradual approach toward summer, characterized not only by heightened temperatures but also by significantly more sunlight. Interestingly, May counters the typical pre-summer trend with the highest recorded sunshine for the year at 341 hours, hinting at a potential relationship between increased cloudiness and the impending rainy season that begins shortly thereafter.
As the rainy season unfolds from June through August, sunshine hours remain relatively stable, with 327 hours in June, rising again to 338 hours in July before tapering slightly to 317 hours in August. This slight decline does not drastically shift the overall pattern, suggesting that while rain begins to increase, ample sunshine continues to bathe the region. The subsequent months of September to December show fewer fluctuations, hovering around 325 to 334 hours of sunshine. Altogether, the data illustrates a clear transition from a sunnier, drier environment in early months to a more variable sunshine pattern during the latter part of the year, emphasizing North Cameroon’s dynamic climate.
In North Cameroon, the UV Index consistently reflects extremely high levels of solar radiation throughout the year, consequently posing significant health risks for those exposed to direct sunlight. From January to August, the UV Index remains notably high, fluctuating between 11 and 14, with March, April, and July all recording a peak index of 13. Notably, August sees the highest UV Index of 14, indicating an exceptional level of solar intensity, which necessitates precautions for outdoor activities. With an average burn time of just 10 minutes across these months, it is critical for individuals to implement sun safety measures to mitigate potential skin damage.
As the year transitions into the latter months of November and December, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10, categorized as very high. Despite the reduction, the burn time extends to 15 minutes during this period, still emphasizing a heightened risk associated with sun exposure. The persistence of high UV Index values throughout the year underscores the importance of sun protection strategies in North Cameroon, as even during the wetter months with lower sunshine, harmful UV radiation remains a concern for residents and visitors alike.
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In North Cameroon, daylight duration exhibits a steady pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. From January to February, the daylight remains constant at 11 hours, providing a relatively balanced day-night cycle. As the region transitions into spring from March to May, daylight increases slightly, reaching up to 12 hours during these months. This stability in daylight hours emphasizes a comparable experience regardless of the season, creating predictability in daily activities and agricultural practices.
As the year progresses into the second half, daylight duration returns to 11 hours during the months of October, November, and December. Interestingly, the consistency of 12 hours of daylight from June to September illustrates the region's minimal variation in light exposure, promoting an environment conducive to a range of outdoor activities. Overall, North Cameroon’s daylight patterns signify an overall equilibrium that fosters a unique lifestyle for its inhabitants, characterized by prolonged periods of sunlight, regardless of seasonal fluctuations.
Garoua, Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. January to March sees average temperatures rise from 26°C (79°F) to a peak of 34°C (93°F) in April, with maximums reaching 44°C (111°F). The rainy season runs from May to September, with rainfall peaking in August at 187 mm (7.4 in) and marking a significant decrease in sunshine hours compared to the dry months. Despite this, the region receives abundant sunlight throughout the year, with over 300 hours in most months. For more detailed information, visit Garoua climate.
Guider, Cameroon has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January to March experiences soaring temperatures, peaking in April with maximums reaching 44°C (111°F). The rainy season is marked by significant precipitation from May to August, with August being the wettest month at 207 mm (8.2 in). Despite the rains, Guider enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with May recording the highest sunshine hours at 343. For more detailed information, visit Guider climate.
Lagdo, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in March and April, with an average around 30°C (86°F) throughout the year. The region receives most of its rainfall from May to August, peaking in August at 228 mm (9.0 in), while the dry months of January and February see no precipitation. Despite the heavy rains, Lagdo enjoys ample sunshine, averaging over 300 hours per month, especially from February to May. For more detailed information, visit Lagdo climate.
Pitoa, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. January sees minimum temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and can peak at 41°C (105°F), while March and April often reach maximums of 44°C (111°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to February, with a marked increase starting in May, especially in July and August, which are the wettest months, receiving 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation. The area enjoys substantial sunshine, averaging over 300 hours monthly; May typically boasts the highest with 342 hours. For more details on the area's climate, visit Pitoa climate.
Poli, Cameroon experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from May to September. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in March and April. Rainfall is minimal in the early months, but it peaks during the rainy season, with June and August seeing over 280 mm (11 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the highest recorded in May at 336 hours. For more details, visit Poli climate.
The climate in Rey Bouba, Cameroon, is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with average highs reaching up to 44°C (111°F) in March and generally remaining above 30°C (86°F) from February to April. The region experiences a significant amount of rainfall from May to August, with August being the wettest month at 255 mm (10.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March, May, and July, with over 330 hours recorded. The overall weather conditions highlight a distinct dry and wet season, impacting local agriculture and daily life. More information can be found at Rey Bouba climate.
The climate in Tchollire, Cameroon, is characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. January marks the start of the year with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 40°C (56°F to 104°F) and no rainfall. As the months progress, temperatures peak in March at an average of 32°C (89°F) and escalate to maximums of 43°C (109°F). The wettest months are June to August, with precipitation reaching up to 273 mm (10.8 in) in August, while sunshine hours remain abundant throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Tchollire climate.
In conclusion, North Cameroon’s climate and environmental conditions showcase a remarkable interplay between temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences distinctly defined seasons marked by intense heat and minimal rainfall leading into a pronounced wet season, which facilitates rich biodiversity and agricultural productivity. High UV Index values throughout much of the year further highlight the importance of sun safety measures for residents and visitors. Meanwhile, the consistent daylight duration contributes to a stable rhythm of life, supporting both cultural practices and economic activities. Collectively, these climatic characteristics not only define the region's natural landscape but also shape the daily lives of its people, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies in response to the challenges posed by climate variability.