Last updated: January 18, 2025
Basse-Kotto, located in the Central African Republic, experiences a distinctive Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Aw, characterized by a tropical savanna climate. Temperatures in the region exhibit a notable range, with minimum averages around 17°C (63°F) in February, rising to a stinging maximum of 41°C (106°F) in March. The overall average temperature hovers around 27°C (80°F), illustrating the warmth that predominates throughout the year and contributing to the region's vibrant biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, exhibits a distinct seasonal temperature pattern characterized by a warm tropical climate. The year begins with relatively high temperatures in January, with daily maximums peaking at 39°C (102°F), followed by an upward shift in February, where temperatures reach a stark 41°C (105°F). March sustains this peak, but temperatures begin to decline in April as the region transitions to slightly cooler conditions, averaging around 27°C (81°F). The summer months of May through August bring milder temperatures, with averages around 25°C (77°F) and maximums stabilizing in the low 30s°C. This cooler trend continues into September and October, maintaining similar averages before the year closes with a gradual rise again in November and December, ensuring warm temperatures prevail throughout the year. Overall, Basse-Kotto reflects a climate that is predominantly warm, with subtle fluctuations indicating shifts between the hotter and comparatively cooler periods.
In Mobaye, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in March, while Alindao experiences slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in January and a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in March. Kembe shows a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) in February, reaching up to 40°C (105°F) in March. For more details on the climate, visit monthly temperatures in Mobaye, monthly temperatures in Alindao, and monthly temperatures in Kembe.
In Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, precipitation is characterized by a marked seasonal shift, with the majority of rainfall occurring from March to October. January begins the year with minimal rainfall, recording only 5 mm (0.2 in) over 0 days, while February sees a slight increase to 28 mm (1.1 in), signaling the onset of the rainy season. March marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with 83 mm (3.3 in) falling over 12 days. This trend continues into April and May, where rainfall escalates to 98 mm (3.9 in) and 129 mm (5.1 in) respectively, establishing late spring as a notably wet period.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from June to October, with August witnessing the highest monthly total of 155 mm (6.1 in) across 24 days. Following August, September and October maintain considerable rainfall levels, measuring 146 mm (5.7 in) and 175 mm (6.9 in) respectively. After this peak, precipitation sharply declines in November to 60 mm (2.4 in) and further decreases in December, culminating in 12 mm (0.5 in) as the year concludes. This pattern emphasizes the dramatic contrast between the dry and wet months, showcasing Basse-Kotto's reliance on seasonal rains for its ecological sustainability.
Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, showcases a significant seasonal variation in sunshine duration, reflecting its tropical climate. The year commences with a solid 271 hours of sunshine in January, which gradually increases through February as days become longer. Notably, March and April shine brighter, with sunshine hours peaking at 320 and 321 hours, respectively. This upward trend continues into May, where 328 hours of sunshine can be enjoyed, marking the region’s most luminous period. The late spring and early summer months reveal a promising transition towards increased sun exposure, vital for both agriculture and community activities.
As the rainy season approaches, sunshine hours begin to decline slightly, with June reporting 310 hours. However, the summer months still retain commendable sunlight, with July and August boasting 299 and 306 hours respectively. Interestingly, the sunshine remains consistent through the autumn months, with both September and October also reporting above-average hours of sunlight, around 305 and 314 hours. By November, the region experiences 317 hours, and December follows closely with 327 hours, indicating that even as rainy conditions set in, Basse-Kotto remains illuminated. Overall, the sunshine pattern not only highlights the region's climatic rhythm but also underscores the essential role of sunlight in supporting the ecosystem and local lifestyle.
In Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, the UV Index consistently indicates extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation, primarily throughout the year. Beginning with UV Index values of 12 in January and February, residents face a burn time of just 10 minutes, necessitating adequate sun protection. As the year progresses, March escalates to a peak UV Index of 13, while April reaches an exceptional 14, reinforcing the urgent need for vigilance against sun exposure. This high intensity continues, with May recording a UV Index of 13 before settling back to 12 in June and the following months, including July, August, and September.
Even as conditions shift into the autumn, the UV Index remains predominantly high, staying at 12 in October and November, with only a slight decrease to 11 by month's end. December sees a further reduction to 10, categorized as very high, which increases the recommended burn time to 15 minutes. Overall, the data emphasizes the importance of protective measures against UV exposure in Basse-Kotto, particularly during the peak months of the year when the risk of skin damage is substantially elevated.
UV Risk Categories
Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, experiences a relatively stable pattern of daylight duration throughout the year, typical of its equatorial climate. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a consistent but limited light period at the start of the year. As March progresses into April and May, daylight duration slightly increases to 12 hours, facilitating longer evenings and greater opportunities for outdoor activities as the region transitions into its warmer months. This extended sunlight contributes to various ecological processes and enhances agricultural practices.
As the year continues, daylight duration stabilizes at 12 hours from June through September, indicating a period of ample light conducive to both human and ecological activities. In October, daylight dips back to 11 hours, followed by a consistent continuation of this duration in November and December. Despite the decrease, the overall daylight patterns underscore Basse-Kotto’s tropical characteristics, where light availability remains relatively uniform, allowing for year-round cultivation and supporting local livelihoods.
The climate in Alindao, Central African Republic, is characterized by a tropical pattern with high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in January to maximums of about 41°C (106°F) in February and March. Rainfall peaks between May and October, with August receiving the highest precipitation at 152 mm (6.0 in). Despite the rains, Alindao benefits from abundant sunshine, especially in March and April, which see over 320 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Alindao climate.
Kembe, Central African Republic experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84°F) throughout the year, with the hottest months being February and March, reaching highs of up to 40°C (105°F). Precipitation peaks from April to October, with August recording the highest rainfall at 155 mm (6.1 in). Despite the rains, Kembe enjoys significant sunshine, with May offering the most hours at 325. For more details, visit Kembe climate.
Mobaye, located in the Central African Republic, experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round. The average temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of around 40°C (104°F) in February and March. Precipitation is significant, particularly from April to October, with August being the wettest month at 159 mm (6.2 in). Regardless of the rain, sunshine is abundant, with monthly hours ranging from 270 in January to 329 in May. For more detailed information, visit Mobaye climate.
In conclusion, Basse-Kotto, Central African Republic, showcases a unique climatic profile marked by high temperatures, distinctive precipitation patterns, and consistent sunlight duration throughout the year. The extreme UV Index, particularly during the peak months, emphasizes the need for adequate sun protection to safeguard residents against potential health risks. With stable daylight hours facilitating agricultural productivity and ecological balance, the region thrives under an environment that supports both livelihoods and biodiversity. Understanding these climatic nuances is vital for local communities, policymakers, and environmental stakeholders as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the region's weather and climate dynamics.