Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Central River, Gambia, is characterized by a Koppen-Geiger classification of Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures show a significant seasonal variation, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) recorded in January, rising to a scorching maximum of 45°C (114°F) in April. The annual average temperature hovers around 29°C (85°F), reflecting the region's warmth and its impact on local ecosystems and human activities. Such climatic patterns influence the agricultural practices and water management strategies vital for the communities residing in this vibrant region.
Temperature patterns in Central River, Gambia, reveal a distinct seasonal cycle characterized by rising heat as the year progresses. Starting in January, the region experiences cooler temperatures with minimal readings around 15°C (59°F) and maximums peaking at 40°C (104°F). As February and March approach, both minimum and maximum temperatures gradually increase, reaching a notable high of 45°C (114°F) in April, marking the peak of the dry season. This extreme heat continues into May, before a slight decline is observed in June as the rains begin, bringing cooler temperatures that average around 31°C (89°F). The wet season from July to September sees a moderate decrease in maximums, dropping to 39°C (102°F) in July and further to 37°C (98°F) in September, while minimums remain relatively stable. The temperatures begin to cool again in October and November, with averages settling around 29°C (85°F), before returning to January's cooler range by December, thus illustrating a clear oscillation between dry heat and more temperate conditions throughout the year.
Janjanbureh experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F) in May, making it one of the hottest spots in the region (monthly temperatures in Janjanbureh). Similarly, Fass also sees a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January and reaches 45°C (112°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Fass). In contrast, Sukuta exhibits slightly lower maximum temperatures, peaking at 44°C (112°F) in April while also starting from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January (monthly temperatures in Sukuta).
Central River, Gambia, experiences a pronounced dry season from January to April, during which the region receives no rainfall, leading to a stark absence of moisture critical for local agriculture. As the season transitions into May, a mere 1 mm (0.0 in) of rain falls, barely marking the onset of the wet season. However, significant precipitation begins in June, accumulating 19 mm (0.8 in) over just three days, signaling the shift towards a more humid climate.
The peak of the rainy season occurs from July to September, where August stands out with a robust 263 mm (10.3 in) of rainfall over an average of 21 days, illustrating the intensity of this period. September follows closely with 189 mm (7.5 in). As the wet season subsides, October sees a reduction in precipitation to 40 mm (1.6 in), while November and December return to dryness with only 1 mm (0.1 in) recorded in November. This seasonal variability in precipitation underscores the importance of the wet season for replenishing soil moisture and supporting ecosystem vitality in the region.
In Central River, Gambia, the sunshine duration exhibits a remarkable seasonal pattern, with a consistent increase in hours as the year progresses toward the summer months. Beginning in January with 252 hours of sunshine, there is a gradual ascent through February and March, culminating in a peak of 347 hours in May. April remains quite sunny as well, at 333 hours, showcasing that this period is not only warm but also bright, making it ideal for outdoor activities. This trend towards longer days continues into June, where sunshine duration remains substantial at 326 hours before beginning to taper off.
As the wet season sets in, July marks a slight decrease in sunlight to 310 hours, followed by a more pronounced decline in August, when hours drop to 273. This decline in sunshine corresponds with increased rainfall, indicating that while the region benefits from moisture, it also experiences a reduction in bright days. The following months, September through December, see a gradual recovery in sunshine duration, stabilizing around 287 to 311 hours. Notably, November returns to 298 hours, suggesting that even as the year draws to a close, Central River remains vibrant with ample sunlight, reinforcing the region's climatic appeal throughout the year.
The UV Index in Central River, Gambia, displays significant variation throughout the year, reflecting both seasonal changes and the intensity of solar radiation. The year begins with a UV Index of 9 in January and 10 in February, classified as "very high," necessitating minimal sun exposure to prevent skin damage, with a recommended burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress into March and April, the UV Index escalates to 13, indicating extreme levels of exposure, and the burn time decreases to just 10 minutes. This high intensity suggests that residents and visitors alike must take precautions to safeguard their skin during this peak season.
June through October continues to showcase an extreme UV Index, peaking at 14 in August, further emphasizing the need for protection, as the burn time remains critically low at 10 minutes throughout this period. Notably, after the summer months, the UV Index drops again in November to 9 and further declines to 8 in December, transitioning back to a "very high" category. This yearly pattern underscores the importance of adopting sun safety measures, particularly during the dry and hot season when UV radiation poses the highest risk, while also providing a reminder of the more manageable UV conditions found at the year's end.
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In Central River, Gambia, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's proximity to the equator. From January through February, the length of the day is maintained at 11 hours, providing a stable amount of sunlight amid cooler conditions. As the seasons transition into March, daylight begins to increase slightly, reaching 12 hours and remaining steady for the next six months. This consistent daylight during the months from March to August allows for ample time for agricultural activities and outdoor life, ideal for harnessing the region's warm climate.
As the year progresses toward October, daylight again shortens to 11 hours and continues in this manner through November and December. This seasonal fluctuation illustrates a subtle yet discernible pattern in sunlight availability, with the longest days occurring during the late spring and summer months. The relatively minor variations in daylight hours signify the region's climate stability, allowing residents to plan their activities around this predictable daylight duration, while also highlighting the connection between sunlight and daily life in Central River.
Bani, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with significant temperature variation throughout the year. From January to May, temperatures soar, peaking at 45°C (113°F) in April and May, while the rainy season from June to September brings cooling but also heavy rainfall, particularly in August which receives 261 mm (10.3 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from February to May, with March boasting 334 hours of sunshine. The drier months, notably from November to April, see no precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Bani climate.
Bansang, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The hottest months are April and May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 45°C (113°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, followed by significant precipitation during the wet season from June to September, peaking in August with 261 mm (10.3 in). Despite the rainfall, Bansang enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, particularly in March and May with over 340 hours each month. For more detailed information, visit Bansang climate.
Bati Ndar, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to March, temperatures soar, peaking at 44°C (112°F) in April and May, while the rainy season from June to September sees heavy precipitation, particularly in August with 269 mm (10.6 in). Despite the heat, the area enjoys substantial sunshine, averaging over 300 hours per month from December to May. The cooler months of November and December provide some respite with lower temperatures and minimal rainfall. For more details, visit Bati Ndar climate.
Brikama Nding, Gambia, experiences a hot tropical climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 44°C (112°F) in April and May. The dry season typically runs from January to May, while the rainy season peaks from June to September, with August receiving the highest precipitation at 266 mm (10.5 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with March seeing the most at 335 hours. For more detailed information, visit Brikama Nding climate.
Buniadu, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 31°C (89°F) with very little precipitation. The rainy season, peaking in July and August, brings significant rainfall with averages of 178 mm (7.0 in) and 284 mm (11.2 in) respectively while temperatures slightly drop to around 28°C (82°F). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in March and May, with up to 347 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Buniadu climate.
The climate in Cha Kunda, Gambia, features high temperatures throughout the year, with peak average temperatures reaching up to 33°C (92°F) in April and May. The hottest month, April, can see maximums of 45°C (114°F). Rainfall is minimal until June, with July and August experiencing the wettest conditions, receiving 137 mm and 249 mm of rain respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in May, which boasts 345 hours of sunshine, contributing to a generally dry and sunny climate. For more details, visit Cha Kunda climate.
Dankunku, Gambia experiences a hot semi-arid climate with extreme temperatures, peaking from April to May where maximums reach up to 44°C (111°F). The region sees minimal precipitation until June, when the rainy season begins, peaking in August with up to 284 mm (11.2 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in May at 347 hours. The cooler months, from November to February, feature lower temperatures and virtually no rain, providing a stark contrast to the sweltering summer. For more detailed information, visit Dankunku climate.
Denton, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to April, temperatures soar, with averages reaching up to 32°C (90°F) and maximums exceeding 44°C (112°F) in April and May, while rainfall is minimal during these months. The wet season begins in June, peaking in August with over 266 mm (10.5 in) of rainfall, while temperatures remain relatively high. Sunshine is abundant all year, especially in April and May with about 347 and 333 hours, respectively. Overall, Denton offers a hot and sunny climate, transitioning sharply into the rainy season. For more details, visit Denton climate.
Dingirie, Gambia experiences a hot, tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 26°C (79°F) in January to 32°C (89°F) in April. The hottest months are April and May, where maximum temperatures can soar to 44°C (112°F) and 45°C (112°F) respectively. Precipitation is minimal from January to April, increasing significantly in the summer months, particularly in August, which receives 248 mm (9.8 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in May at 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Dingirie climate.
The climate in Dobbo, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures year-round, with maximums reaching up to 45°C (113°F) in April and May. The rainy season occurs from June to September, with August experiencing the heaviest rainfall at 261 mm (10.3 in). Despite the wet season, sunshine remains abundant, peaking in May with 346 hours. The dry months from November to April see little to no precipitation, with January to March offering the most sunshine. For more details, visit Dobbo climate.
Fass, Gambia experiences a hot and dry climate, with peak temperatures occurring from March to May, where averages reach up to 32°C (89°F) and maximums can soar to 45°C (112°F). The rainy season spans from June to September, bringing significant precipitation, particularly in August with 248 mm (9.8 in) of rainfall. Sunshine is abundant, especially from January to May, with the highest hours recorded in May at 347 hours. Visitors can expect little to no rain from January to April, making it ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Fass climate.
The climate in Galleh Manda, Gambia, is characterized by hot temperatures year-round, with maximum averages peaking at 45°C (113°F) in April and May. The dry season lasts from January to May, followed by a wet season that peaks in July and August with substantial rainfall, especially in August at 261 mm (10.3 in). Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in May at 346 hours. Temperatures remain relatively consistent, with minimal fluctuations in precipitation during the dry months. For more details, visit Galleh Manda climate.
Jakaba, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. Temperatures range from a mild 15°C (59°F) in January to a scorching 45°C (113°F) in May. The rainy season spans from June to September, with August seeing the highest rainfall of 248 mm (9.8 in). Despite the intense heat, sunshine is abundant year-round, peaking in May with 347 hours. For more details, visit Jakaba climate.
Jakhaly, Gambia experiences a hot climate with notable temperature variations throughout the year. Minimum temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in January to 23°C (74°F) in July, while maximums soar to 44°C (112°F) in April and May. Rainfall is scarce from January to April and increases significantly during the summer months, peaking in August with 266 mm (10.5 in). Sunny days are abundant, with May offering the most sunshine at 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jakhaly climate.
In January, Janjanbureh, Gambia experiences warm temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F), peaking at 40°C (104°F). The month is characterized by bright sunny days, boasting 252 hours of sunshine and no recorded precipitation. This dry and sunny weather makes January an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more details on the climate, visit Janjanbureh climate.
Jarreng, Gambia experiences a hot semi-arid climate, characterized by consistently high temperatures throughout the year. January through April sees maximum temperatures ranging from 39°C (102°F) to 44°C (111°F), while the wet season from June to September brings significant rainfall, peaking in August with 284 mm (11.2 in). The dry months exhibit minimal precipitation, with January to April receiving none. Despite the heat, sunshine is abundant, peaking in May with 347 hours. For more details, visit Jarreng climate.
The climate in Karantaba, Gambia, is characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct rainy season. From January to April, temperatures soar, peaking at around 44°C (112°F) in April, while rainfall is negligible. The wet season begins in June, with significant precipitation in July and August, accumulating to 248 mm (9.8 in) in August, resulting in cooler nights. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in May (347 hours). For more details, visit Karantaba climate.
Kass Wollof, Gambia experiences a distinct climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to April, temperatures peak, with averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, while May marks the onset of the rainy season, bringing increased humidity and temperatures averaging 31°C (88°F). The highest rainfall occurs in August, with around 248 mm (9.8 in), while January through April sees virtually no precipitation. Throughout the year, sunny days are common, particularly from February to May, which collectively boast over 300 hours of sunshine each month. For more details, visit Kass Wollof climate.
Katamina, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round. From January to April, temperatures rise steadily, peaking in April at a maximum of 44°C (111°F), alongside minimal rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, with July and August seeing the highest precipitation, totaling 178 mm (7.0 in) and 284 mm (11.2 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in March and May, reaching up to 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Katamina climate.
Kuntaur, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures peak from March to May, reaching highs of up to 45°C (113°F) in April, while the rainy season lasts from June to September, with August recording the highest precipitation at 248 mm (9.8 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the dry months, with May averaging 347 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Kuntaur climate.
Kunting, Gambia experiences a hot climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. The hottest months are April and May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 45°C (113°F), while the coolest months, January and December, range between 15°C (59°F) and 27°C (80°F). Rainfall is sparse until June, when the rainy season begins, peaking in August with 261 mm (10.3 in) of precipitation. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from March to May, with March recording up to 334 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit Kunting climate.
Madina, Gambia experiences a hot climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, peaking in April and May, where maximums can reach up to 45°C (112°F). The rainy season occurs from June to September, with August being the wettest month, receiving up to 248 mm (9.8 in) of rain. Despite the heat and humidity, sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and May, boasting over 335 hours of sunlight. The dry months from November to April see little to no rainfall, maintaining high average temperatures. For more detailed information, visit Madina climate.
Madina Tunjang, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a cool 15°C (59°F) in January to a scorching 45°C (113°F) in April and May. Rainfall is minimal from January to May, with substantial precipitation occurring during the rainy season from June to September, peaking in August with 261 mm (10.3 in). Sunshine is abundant, with over 300 hours of sunlight in most months, contributing to the region’s warm and sunny conditions throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Madina Tunjang climate.
The climate in Mara Magai, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from a low of 15°C (59°F) in January to a peak of 32°C (90°F) in April and May, with maximums reaching up to 44°C (112°F) during the hottest months. Precipitation is minimal from January to April, with significant rainfall occurring in the summer months of July and August, totaling up to 266 mm (10.5 in). Despite the rains, Mara Magai enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with the sunniest month being May, averaging 347 hours. For more details, visit Mara Magai climate.
The climate in Pateh Sam, Gambia, is characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. Peak temperatures occur between March and May, with maximums reaching up to 44°C (112°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to April, with heavy rains starting in June, peaking in August with 266 mm (10.5 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in March and May, with over 300 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Pateh Sam climate.
Sambang, Gambia, experiences a hot climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, particularly from March to May, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 44°C (111°F). The rainy season occurs mainly from June to September, with August being the wettest month, receiving approximately 284 mm (11.2 in) of rainfall. Meanwhile, the area enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 347 hours in May. Despite the heat, the climate is relatively dry from January to April, with little to no precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Sambang climate.
The climate in Sami, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to March, temperatures soar, reaching a maximum of 44°C (111°F) in April and May, with minimal precipitation. The rainy season runs from June to September, peaking in August with 284 mm (11.2 in) of rainfall, which significantly lowers temperatures to a maximum of 36°C (98°F). Despite the heat, Sami enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with May offering the most at 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sami climate.
The climate in Saruja, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January to April sees minimal rainfall and soaring temperatures, peaking in March and April with maximums reaching up to 44°C (112°F). The rainy season begins in June, with heavy precipitation peaking in August at 266 mm (10.5 in), leading to cooler average temperatures. Despite the rains, sunshine remains abundant throughout the year, with May showing the highest hours at 347. For more details, visit Saruja climate.
Sukuta, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with temperatures frequently reaching above 40°C (104°F) from March to May. The average yearly temperature varies between 26°C (79°F) and 32°C (90°F), with minimal rainfall occurring from January to April. The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, sees significant precipitation, especially in August, when over 266 mm (10.5 in) of rain can fall. Sunshine hours are abundant throughout the year, peaking in May with 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sukuta climate.
Sulolor, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to April, temperatures soar, with April peaking at an average of 33°C (91°F) and maximums reaching up to 45°C (113°F). The rainy season begins in June, culminating in August with substantial rainfall of 261 mm (10.3 in) and cooler average temperatures of around 28°C (82°F). Despite the wet season, Sulolor enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, particularly in May, which boasts 346 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Sulolor climate.
Tuba, Gambia experiences a hot climate with significant temperature variation throughout the year. January to May features high temperatures, peaking in April and May at an average of 33°C (91°F) to 45°C (113°F), while the rainy season from June to September brings cooler averages of 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F) alongside heavy rainfall, particularly in August. Sunshine is abundant, with the lengthiest daylight hours occurring from February to May, offering over 300 hours per month. The dry months see minimal precipitation, while the wet months can yield over 260 mm (10.3 in) of rain. For more information, visit Tuba climate.
Tuba Koto, Gambia experiences a hot climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 45°C (112°F) in May. The dry season spans from January to April, with negligible rainfall, while the wet season from June to September sees heavy precipitation, peaking in August at 248 mm (9.8 in). Despite the heat, sunshine is abundant, providing over 300 hours per month from February to June. For more details, visit Tuba Koto climate.
Wassu, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. January to April sees peak daytime temperatures reaching up to 44°C (112°F) with little to no precipitation, while the rainy season from June to September brings substantial rainfall, peaking in August with 248 mm (9.8 in). Sunshine hours are abundant throughout the year, with May enjoying the most at 347 hours. Despite the heat, cooler temperatures in December and January provide some relief. For more details, visit Wassu climate.
In conclusion, Central River, Gambia, exhibits a unique climate characterized by its pronounced seasonal variation in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a distinct dry season, followed by a dynamic wet season, which is critical for agricultural productivity and local ecosystems. Additionally, the high UV index during the summer months necessitates sun safety measures, making awareness of solar exposure essential. The consistent daylight duration throughout the year, along with ample sunshine particularly during the wet season, facilitates a vibrant lifestyle for the community. Collectively, these climatic elements underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to the environmental conditions of Central River for sustainable living and resource management.