Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Bas-Congo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is classified as Aw according to the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by a distinct wet and dry seasonal cycle. Temperatures exhibit remarkable warmth, with minimum values reaching 15°C (60°F) in June, an average of 25°C (77°F), and peak highs of 36°C (97°F) in August. This tropical climate supports a diverse ecosystem, yet it also poses challenges related to agriculture and human health during the hotter months.
In Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, temperature patterns exhibit a warm tropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. The hottest months are typically from January to May, where average temperatures hover around 26°C (79°F), reaching maximums of 34°C (94°F) to 36°C (96°F). As the region transitions into the cooler months of June and July, temperatures dip slightly, with averages falling to around 23°C (73°F), while minimums can drop to 15°C (60°F) in June. By August, temperatures begin to rise again, with highs peaking at 36°C (97°F) despite a maintained average of 23°C (73°F). The gradual warming resumes in September and October, leading back to the climatic warmth typical of the year's first half, with November and December averaging 26°C (78°F) and displaying minimal fluctuation in daily maximums. These trends highlight the dynamics of a climate that is consistently warm yet experiences notable shifts as it transitions between its wet and dry seasons.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the climate varies by location, with Matadi experiencing a minimum temperature of 16°C (61°F) in July and a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in February, as detailed monthly temperatures in Matadi. Moanda has a milder climate, with minimums of 20°C (69°F) in August and a February maximum of 29°C (85°F) according to monthly temperatures in Moanda. Similarly, Mbanza-Ngungu sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) in July to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in February, as noted in monthly temperatures in Mbanza-Ngungu.
Precipitation patterns in Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, reveal a clear seasonal distinction influenced by the tropical climate. The region experiences its peak rainfall between January and April, with February recording the highest level of precipitation at 154 mm (6.1 in). Rainfall during this period is frequent, spanning 18 to 20 days each month, contributing to a lush environment. In April, precipitation reaches 184 mm (7.2 in), just before a notable decrease in May, where rainfall drops to 90 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 15 days.
A stark contrast is observed in the mid-year months of June and July, where rainfall significantly declines to just 10 mm (0.4 in) and 7 mm (0.3 in), respectively, often experiencing little to no rainy days. August sees a slight rebound with 12 mm (0.5 in) over a couple of days, leading into the rejuvenated wet season starting in September. Transitioning into the final months of the year, October, November, and December witness substantial increases in precipitation, with November and December both reaching 191 mm (7.5 in) over an average of 24 and 23 days respectively. This distinct precipitation cycle underscores the region's dependence on seasonal rains for sustaining its diverse ecosystems and agriculture.
In Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend that directly correlates with the region's climatic cycle. Beginning in January, the area enjoys a healthy 232 hours of sunshine, which steadily increases throughout the first half of the year, peaking in March at an impressive 297 hours. This peak signals a vibrant transition into the warmer months, with April and May still maintaining high sunshine levels at 270 and 285 hours, respectively. Such conditions not only foster agricultural productivity but also enhance the overall ecosystem, allowing vegetation to thrive under generous sunlight.
However, as the region approaches the wet season, sunshine duration begins to fluctuate slightly. June and July receive an ample 273 and 274 hours of sunlight, reflecting a balanced period of warmth before the onset of more significant rainfall. As the year progresses into the latter months, sunshine hours begin to taper off; August records a decrease to 238 hours, followed by mild variations in September and October, ultimately settling at 254 hours in November. Despite these reductions, the overall sunshine throughout the year promotes biodiversity and supports the local agricultural landscape, reflecting the essential role of solar radiation in this vibrant tropical climate.
The UV Index in Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, indicates a consistent and high level of ultraviolet radiation, particularly evident in the first half of the year. From January through May, the UV Index remains exceptionally high, with values ranging from 13 to 15, classified under the extreme exposure category. This intensity signifies that unprotected skin can incur severe burns in as little as 10 minutes of sun exposure, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures during these months. March stands out as the month with the highest UV Index at 15, reflecting the peak solar intensity as the region transitions towards its hotter season.
As the year progresses into the latter half, the UV Index remains significant but slightly decreases in intensity. June and July register a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, allowing for increased safe exposure times of around 15 minutes. The index rises slightly to 11 in September before stabilizing again at 13 in October, and then returning to the extreme category during November and December. Despite these fluctuations, the sustained levels of UV radiation throughout the year underscore the importance of protective measures against skin damage and other related health risks in this tropical environment.
UV Risk Categories
In Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, daylight duration exhibits remarkable consistency throughout the year, predominantly hovering around the 12-hour mark. From January to March, residents enjoy an ample 12 hours of daylight daily, facilitating outdoor activities and agricultural practices that thrive under sunny skies. This steady duration reflects the region's tropical climate and proximity to the equator, where dramatic fluctuations in daylight hours are rare.
As the year progresses, daylight duration shifts slightly, with a decrease to 11 hours during the months of April through August. This reduction in daylight aligns with the wet season, though still provides a favorable environment for growth and development. Interestingly, daylight duration returns to 12 hours from September to December, reinforcing the annual cycle of consistent sunlight essential for both the ecosystems and livelihoods in the region. Overall, the stable daylight patterns in Bas-Congo underscore the region's unique climatic characteristics that support biodiversity and community well-being.
Boma, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in July to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in March. Precipitation is heavy, especially from April (211 mm) to November (200 mm), with a notable dry spell in June and July (10 mm each). Sunshine is abundant, peaking in March with 302 hours. For more detailed information, visit Boma climate.
The climate in Kasangulu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is characterized by tropical warmth and a significant wet season, particularly from October to April with peak rainfall in April (151 mm) and November (199 mm). Temperatures remain consistently high throughout the year, averaging between 24°C (76°F) in July to 27°C (81°F) in March, with maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in August. The dry season, spanning from June to August, sees minimal rainfall, often dropping to just a few millimeters. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in the drier months, with July receiving up to 311 hours. For a detailed overview, visit Kasangulu climate.
Matadi, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in July to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in February, with averages consistently around 26°C (79°F). Rainfall is heaviest in April, with 235 mm (9.3 in), while the months of June and July are relatively dry, receiving only 7 mm (0.3 in) each. Sunshine hours vary, peaking in March with 294 hours, contributing to the region's lush vegetation. For more detailed information, visit Matadi climate.
Mbanza-Ngungu, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) in July to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in February. The rainy season peaks from April to November, with November receiving the highest precipitation at 243 mm (9.6 in), while the dry season sees significantly lower rainfall, particularly in July. Despite the rainfall, Mbanza-Ngungu enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in March with 291 hours. For further details, visit Mbanza-Ngungu climate.
Moanda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences a tropical climate characterized by consistent temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 22°C (73°F) in July and August to 27°C (81°F) in the warmer months. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from January to April, with February being the wettest month at 134 mm (5.3 in). Despite the rainy season, sunshine is plentiful, peaking in May with 314 hours. The climate displays a notable dry spell from June to August, where monthly precipitation drops to as low as 8 mm (0.3 in). For more details, visit Moanda climate.
The climate in Tshela, Democratic Republic of the Congo is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average monthly highs ranging from 22°C (72°F) in July to 34°C (93°F) in February and March. Precipitation is highest from November to January, peaking at 239 mm (9.4 in) in December, while the dry season occurs from June to August, with minimal rainfall around 15-20 mm (0.6-0.8 in). Sunshine hours vary, with the sunniest months being March (289 hours) and February (259 hours). Overall, Tshela experiences a tropical climate that supports lush vegetation. For more detailed information, visit Tshela climate.
In summary, Bas-Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, presents a distinctive climate characterized by consistent warmth, significant precipitation, and stable daylight durations throughout the year. The region's tropical climate, defined by its high UV Index, especially in the first half of the year, necessitates awareness and protective measures against sun exposure. Meanwhile, the reliable sunshine hours foster a vibrant ecosystem, bolstering agricultural outputs and sustaining diverse wildlife. Overall, understanding these climatic aspects is crucial for maximizing the region's natural resources while addressing the challenges posed by seasonal variations and environmental changes.