Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of Congo is characterized by a diverse range of temperatures and precipitation patterns that significantly impact the region's ecosystems and livelihoods. Temperatures can vary widely, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) recorded in June in Pool, and soaring to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in January in Likouala. Rainfall levels also fluctuate dramatically, with a low of just 3 mm (0.1 in) in July in Brazzaville contrasting with a peak of 287 mm (11.3 in) in November in Niari. Humidity levels are similarly variable, averaging a minimum of 74% in August in Brazzaville and reaching a maximum of 93% in November in Lékoumou. This dynamic climate shapes the rich biodiversity and agricultural practices found throughout the country.
The climate of the Republic of the Congo is predominantly characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification, featuring a mix of tropical climates that add to its rich ecological tapestry. Regions like Bouenza, Brazzaville, Kouilou, Lékoumou, Niari, and Pointe-Noire fall under the Aw class, indicating a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. In contrast, areas such as Cuvette, Likouala, and Sangha experience a tropical monsoon climate (Am), bringing more consistent rainfall throughout the year. The Cuvette-Ouest and Plateaux regions maintain the Aw classification, while Sangha stands out with both Am and Af climates, showcasing the diversity of rainfall patterns across the country. As you explore each region, you'll appreciate how these varying climate zones shape not only the landscape but also the livelihoods and cultures of the people who call Congo home.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Af | Tropical rainforest climate with no dry season and high temperatures year-round. |
| Am | Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall and high temperatures. |
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
The temperatures in Congo exhibit a warm and inviting tropical climate throughout the year, with monthly variations that reflect both consistency and slight shifts. January begins with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in Sangha and peaks at a sizzling 37°C (99°F) in Likouala, a trend that persists through February as temperatures remain stable. By March, minimums rise to 18°C (65°F) in Plateaux, marking the gradual increase leading into the mid-year. April and May hold steady temperatures with maximums around 36°C (96°F), while June brings a slight dip, especially in the Pool region where the minimum falls to 15°C (60°F). As the months progress, the peak temperatures begin to cool down, dropping to the low 30s by July through September, with July's maximum at 33°C (92°F) in Likouala. October through December remains pleasantly warm, hovering around 35°C (95°F), indicating a gentle transition towards the cooler end of the year. Overall, Congo’s monthly temperatures paint a picture of a lush, warm environment, enticing for adventurous souls year-round.
In the Congo, precipitation patterns reveal distinct seasonal trends, marked by significant variability across regions. July stands out with minimal rainfall, recording as little as 3 mm (0.1 in) in Brazzaville and even boasting days without precipitation in Kouilou. In contrast, November brings a dramatic increase, particularly in the Niari region, where rainfall peaks at 287 mm (11.3 in) across nearly the entire month, with up to 29 days of precipitation. This fluctuation underscores the Congo's diverse climate, transitioning from dry conditions to a lush, rain-soaked landscape, significantly influencing the region's ecology and agricultural practices.
Congo experiences significant humidity variations throughout the year, reflecting its tropical climate. In August, the humidity dips to a minimum of 74% in Brazzaville, marking one of the driest points for the region. However, as the year progresses into November, humidity levels surge dramatically, peaking at a staggering 93% in Lékoumou. This striking shift underscores the wet season's influence, highlighting the region's tendency toward higher humidity as the year draws to a close, creating a lush and vibrant environment that supports its diverse ecosystems.
In March, the UV Index in Congo showcases significant trends, particularly in the Kouilou and Pool regions. With an average daily maximum UVI of 14 in Kouilou and slightly higher at 15 in Pool, these figures highlight the increasing intensity of solar radiation as the region transitions into its warmer months. This upward trajectory in UV exposure underscores the importance of sun safety and awareness, urging residents and visitors alike to take precautions against potential health risks associated with high UV levels. As climate patterns evolve, monitoring these trends becomes essential for public health and well-being.
UV Risk Categories
The sunshine duration across various regions in Congo showcases intriguing trends throughout the year. For instance, Bouenza experiences a modest 181 hours of sunshine in August, while Sangha shines brightly in January with 264 hours. The peak sunshine hours are evident in Niari during March, boasting an impressive 291 hours. Not to be outdone, Plateaux captures the most sunlight in July, gathering 321 hours. This variation highlights the diverse climatic influences across the regions, illustrating how each area uniquely embraces the sun's warmth throughout different seasons.
The likelihood of sunny weather in Congo shows notable seasonal variation. In January, for instance, the Niari region experiences a modest 11% chance of sunny conditions, suggesting a predominantly overcast start to the year. In contrast, by July, the Plateaux region enjoys a much brighter 48% likelihood of sunshine, reflecting the shift towards a more favorable climate during mid-year. This trend highlights not only the diverse climatic patterns across Congo but also the potential for vibrant outdoor experiences during specific months.
In the Kouilou region of Congo, daylight hours exhibit a noticeable shift throughout the year. In June, residents experience approximately 11 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to about 12 hours by December. This trend reflects the region's transition into the longer days of the dry season, inviting both locals and visitors to engage in outdoor activities under the sun. The variation in daylight serves as a reminder of the natural rhythms that influence daily life in this vibrant area, making each season uniquely enchanting.
Nestled in the heart of Congo, Bouenza experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. With average highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in the warmer months, visitors will find January to April particularly steamy, seeing significant rainfall, especially in April with 160 mm (6.3 in). As the dry season kicks in from June to August, temperatures remain pleasant, averaging around 24°C (75°F) while precipitation drops dramatically to just a few millimeters. The captivating blend of warmth and moisture creates a lush landscape, making Bouenza a vibrant destination for nature lovers. For more details on the weather patterns, explore the Bouenza climate.
The climate in Brazzaville, Congo is characterized by a warm, tropical atmosphere with temperatures typically ranging from a low of 16°C (61°F) in July to a high of 35°C (95°F) in March and April. January to April marks the rainy season, where humidity levels soar to around 88% and precipitation peaks, notably in February with 127 mm (5.0 in). In contrast, the dry months from June to August bring lower humidity, dropping to as low as 74%, and minimal rainfall, averaging just 3 mm (0.1 in) in July. This unique climate mix not only shapes the local environment but also enchants visitors. For more detailed insights, explore the full guide on Brazzaville climate.
In Cuvette, Congo, the climate is characterized by high temperatures and significant humidity throughout the year. January kicks off the year with warm temperatures averaging 26°C (79°F), escalating to a maximum of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation peaks towards the middle of the year, particularly in April and October, where rainfall can exceed 200 mm (7.9 in), contributing to the region's rich biodiversity. With humidity levels often hovering around 86-91%, the lush landscape thrives amidst the frequent rain. For more detailed insights, check out the full guide on Cuvette climate.
The climate in Cuvette-Ouest, Congo, is characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. From January to March, temperatures can soar to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), while the region experiences significant rainfall, peaking at 152 mm (6.0 in) in April. The cooler months from June to August see averages dip to around 24°C (76°F), with rainfall decreasing to as little as 36 mm (1.4 in) in July. With humidity levels consistently hovering between 85% and 92%, the air remains thick and tropical, perfect for lush vegetation. For a detailed look at climate patterns, visit Cuvette-Ouest climate.
Nestled along the coast, Kouilou, Congo experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. From January to April, the average highs reach a pleasant 30°C (87°F), while humidity hovers around 83%, making the air feel quite tropical. As the rainy season peaks between January and April, precipitation levels soar, with February recording up to 204 mm (8.0 in) of rain. The months from June to August offer a brief respite, featuring cooler temperatures and reduced humidity, but the humidity rises again in the latter part of the year. Discover more about this captivating climate on the Kouilou climate page.
The climate in Likouala, Congo, is characterized by generally warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Throughout the year, average temperatures hover around 27°C (81°F), with January and February experiencing the hottest peaks near 37°C (99°F). Humidity remains high, often exceeding 85%, which can amplify the warmth and create a tropical feel. Rainfall is substantial, especially from March to September, with August being the wettest month at 135 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation. For more detailed insights, visit Likouala climate.
Lékoumou, Congo, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. From January to April, temperatures peak at a steamy 34°C (93°F), often accompanied by high humidity levels of up to 91%. The region experiences its heaviest rainfall between November and December, with precipitation soaring to 284 mm (11.2 in) in November, creating a lush, vibrant landscape. As the dry season approaches in mid-year, temperatures cool slightly, with July averaging a comfortable 23°C (73°F). To explore more about this unique climate, visit Lékoumou climate.
The climate in Niari, Congo is characterized by a warm and humid tropical atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a mild 16°C (62°F) in July to sweltering highs of 35°C (95°F) in May and March. Rainfall peaks during the wet months of November and February, contributing to lush greenery, while humidity levels hover exceptionally high, reaching up to 92% later in the year. Despite the heavy precipitation, drier periods in June and July provide a brief respite, as temperatures dip slightly and outdoor explorations become more enjoyable. For those looking to understand the nuances of this vibrant climate, further details can be found at Niari climate.
In the Plateaux region of Congo, temperatures maintain a warm climate throughout the year, with January averaging around 25°C (77°F) and peaking in March at 37°C (98°F). The rainy season predominantly spans from January to April, showcasing heavy precipitation, particularly in April with 172 mm (6.8 in) of rain. Humidity levels are notably high, often reaching up to 92% in November, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem. As the dry season approaches in June and July, rainfall diminishes significantly, allowing for a brief respite before the rains return in October. For a deeper look into the region's weather patterns, explore Plateaux climate.
The climate in Pointe-Noire, Congo is characterized by warm temperatures and significant humidity throughout the year. With average highs reaching up to 31°C (87°F) in March, the region experiences its warmest weather during this month, while July and August bring cooler temperatures down to 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is most prevalent during the early months, peaking in February with 204 mm (8.0 in), before tapering off to drier conditions in June and July. The humidity remains relatively high, fluctuating between 79% to 85%, creating a tropical atmosphere. For more detailed information, check out the Pointe-Noire climate.
The climate in Pool, Congo, offers a warm and humid tropical experience, with temperatures ranging from a mild 15°C (60°F) in June to a steamy 34°C (93°F) during the peak months. As the year progresses, the region sees significant rainfall, particularly from April to November, where monthly precipitation can exceed 200 mm (8 inches). Humidity levels are generally high, ranging from 81% to 92%, adding to the tropical feel, especially during the wetter months. Overall, Pool’s climate is a blend of lush greenery months and vibrant sunshine, making it a captivating destination. For more details, explore the full Pool climate.
Sangha, Congo, experiences a tropical climate marked by high temperatures and significant humidity year-round. With average temperatures hovering around 26°C (79°F), the region sees its warmest months from February to April, where maximums can reach up to 37°C (99°F). The wet season peaks between September and November, bringing heavy rainfall, particularly in October with 185 mm (7.3 in) of precipitation. Humidity levels are consistently high, often exceeding 90% in the late months of the year, creating a lush, vibrant environment that supports diverse ecosystems. For more detailed information, explore the Sangha climate.
The climate of the Congo exhibits significant variability, with temperatures ranging from a cool 15°C (60°F) in June in Pool to a sweltering 37°C (99°F) in January in Likouala. This temperature fluctuation is mirrored by a dramatic variation in precipitation, where July brings a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) in Brazzaville, while November can unleash up to 287 mm (11.3 in) in Niari. Humidity levels further contribute to the region's climate complexity, soaring from an average of 74% in August in Brazzaville to a staggering 93% in November in Lékoumou. These trends highlight the Congo's rich climatic diversity, emphasizing the need for adaptation strategies that address its unique challenges and opportunities throughout the year.