Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of The Gambia is characterized by a striking contrast between its dry and rainy seasons. Temperatures fluctuate significantly, with January cooling to a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in Western and soaring to a scorching 46°C (114°F) in April in Upper River. Precipitation varies immensely throughout the year, with January seeing virtually no rainfall—0 mm (0.0 in) in North Bank—while August experiences a peak of 321 mm (12.6 in) in Western. Humidity levels further illustrate the region’s seasonal dynamics, dipping to an average minimum of 14% in January in Upper River and climbing to a humid 88% in August. This unique climate not only shapes the natural environment but also influences the livelihoods and activities of the local population.
Gambia's climate is predominantly characterized by the Aw (tropical savanna) category, evident in regions such as Banjul, Central River, Upper River, and Western. This climate type features distinct wet and dry seasons, fostering vibrant ecosystems and agriculture. However, areas like Lower River and North Bank also exhibit the BSh (semi-arid) classification, indicating a slightly drier climate with less rainfall. The interplay of these climate zones creates a diverse landscape, rich in both flora and fauna, making Gambia a unique destination for nature lovers.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Throughout the year, Gambia experiences a dynamic range of temperatures, showcasing an impressive variance from month to month. In the heart of winter, January welcomes cool nights at a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in Western, but afternoons can soar to an intense 41°C (106°F) in Upper River. As February rolls in, the mercury climbs even higher, peaking at 42°C (108°F) in Upper River while nighttime temperatures remain mild. The heat intensifies through March and April, with April recording a sweltering maximum of 46°C (114°F), making it one of the hottest months. By the time May arrives, temperatures slightly cool off, yet still reach a maximum of 45°C (113°F). June marks a shift into the rainy season, bringing cooler nights at 20°C (69°F) and reducing daytime highs to 43°C (110°F). The summer months of July and August see a drop in temperatures, with maximums settling around the mid-30s °C (97°F to 102°F), signaling a welcome respite. As September transitions to October, a gradual cooling trend continues, with maximums dipping to 40°C (104°F). The year winds down in December, where nights again cool to 15°C (59°F) in Lower River, balancing the warm days. This fascinating temperature fluctuation highlights Gambia's distinctive climate, blending extremes with more temperate periods throughout the year.
Precipitation patterns in Gambia exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm, with the dry months of January and February experiencing minimal rainfall, particularly in regions like the North Bank and Lower River, where January sees a complete lack of rainfall. As the year progresses, the wet season emerges, peaking dramatically in August, especially in the Western region, where rainfall can reach up to 321 mm (12.6 in) over the course of the month. This surge in precipitation is mirrored by an increase in rainy days, with Lower River reporting up to 23 days of rain in August. Overall, the Gambian climate underscores a clear transition from arid conditions to a vibrant wet season, shaping the agricultural and ecological landscape of the region.
In Gambia, humidity levels showcase a notable seasonal variation, reflecting the shifts in climate throughout the year. In the dry month of January, Upper River experiences a minimal humidity level of just 14%, creating a refreshing atmosphere. However, this stark contrast transforms dramatically during the wet season, peaking in August with a sweltering 88% humidity. This dynamic range indicates not only the stark differences between the dry and rainy seasons but also underscores the unique climate experience that Gambia offers, where the air can shift from crisp and dry to heavy and humid in the span of a few months.
The UV Index trends in Gambia reveal a striking pattern of high exposure, particularly in the months of August and September. In both the Upper River and Lower River regions, the average daily maximum UV Index reaches a notable peak of 14, suggesting that residents and visitors alike should take precautions during these months. This consistent level of UV intensity highlights the importance of sun safety, as the sun's rays can pose significant health risks. Awareness and protective measures are essential during these times, ensuring that individuals can enjoy the warm Gambian climate while safeguarding their well-being.
UV Risk Categories
The sunshine duration in Gambia exhibits a fascinating seasonal trend, with notable increases as the year progresses. In January, Banjul receives approximately 250 hours of sunlight, while the Upper River region enjoys a slightly higher total of 254 hours. However, by May, both locations experience a remarkable surge in sunshine, with Upper River basking in 344 hours and Banjul slightly edging ahead at 348 hours. This seasonal shift highlights Gambia's transition into the summer months, offering locals and visitors alike an abundance of sunny days perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
In Gambia, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly across the months, showcasing a clear trend from the cooler season to the warmer one. For instance, in April, residents of the Upper River region experience a robust 82% chance of sunny skies, highlighting the peak of the dry season when sunny days are at their highest. In stark contrast, as the year progresses into August, this probability drops to a mere 18%, indicating the onset of the rainy season, which is characterized by increased cloud cover and precipitation. This distinct fluctuation underlines the seasonal shifts that influence daily life and activities in Gambia.
Daylight hours in Gambia vary significantly throughout the year, reflecting the country’s tropical climate. In December, residents in the Lower River region enjoy around 11 hours of daylight, offering longer evenings perfect for winding down and socializing. In contrast, by June, this increases to approximately 12 hours of daylight in the Central River region, illuminating the vibrant landscape and enhancing outdoor activities. This gradual shift illustrates the seasonal dynamics, where daylight not only marks the passing of time but also influences daily life and culture in Gambia.
Banjul, Gambia, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. From January to May, the mercury consistently hits highs around 35°C (95°F) to 39°C (102°F), while the humidity remains relatively low, helping to balance the heat. The rainy season arrives between June and September, bringing significant downpours, particularly in August, when over 289 mm (11.4 inches) of rain falls. Despite this, temperatures remain pleasantly warm, with averages hovering around 27-29°C (81-84°F). For a deeper dive into the weather patterns, check out Banjul climate.
Central River, Gambia, experiences a strikingly warm and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures soaring as high as 45°C (114°F) in April and May. As the rainy season approaches in June, humidity levels rise significantly, reaching up to 86% in August, accompanied by heavy downpours that can accumulate over 263 mm (10.3 in). The cooler months of January and February offer a refreshing contrast, with temperatures dipping to a pleasant 15°C (59°F) and minimal rainfall. This unique climate creates a diverse environment that thrives on both the intense heat and the subsequent rain. For a more detailed overview, check out the Central River climate.
The climate of Lower River, Gambia is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, creating a vibrant yet extreme environment. From January to May, temperatures soar, with highs reaching up to 44°C (112°F) in April and May, while humidity starts to creep up from a dry 34% in January to a more oppressive 58% by May. The rainy season kicks off in June, bringing significant precipitation, peaking in August with 307 mm (12.1 in), accompanied by humidity levels that rise to 85%. As months transition to October and beyond, the weather becomes milder yet remains warm, making it an intriguing destination for both relaxation and exploration. For more details about the weather patterns and conditions, visit the Lower River climate.
The climate in North Bank, Gambia is characterized by a striking contrast between its dry and wet seasons. From January to April, temperatures soar, often reaching a maximum of 44°C (111°F) in April, with humidity levels gradually increasing from 34% to 49%. As the rainy season sets in from June to September, the region experiences a dramatic rise in precipitation, peaking in August with 297 mm (11.7 in), while humidity climbs to an oppressive 85%. By October, the rains begin to taper off, leading to more temperate conditions once again. For a detailed overview, explore the full North Bank climate.
The climate in Upper River, Gambia, is characterized by a stark contrast between the scorching dry season from January to April, where temperatures can peak at an intense 46°C (114°F), and the humid, rainy season from June to September, marked by heavy downpours and temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). As humidity levels soar, especially during the heart of the rainy season, the air becomes thick with moisture, reaching up to 88% in August. Although rainfall is minimal before June, the region receives substantial precipitation, with August alone recording up to 258 mm (10.2 in). For a more detailed look at the seasonal variations and climatic nuances, explore the full report on Upper River climate.
In Western Gambia, the climate is characterized by a stark contrast between a scorching dry season and a sultry rainy season. From January to May, temperatures soar, peaking at a sweltering 44°C (111°F) in March and April, while humidity levels remain relatively low. The onset of the rains in June transforms the landscape, bringing with it heavy downpours, particularly in August, when an impressive 321 mm (12.6 in) of rain falls. As the season transitions into October, temperatures moderate and humidity eases, creating a slightly more comfortable environment. For more detailed insights into the climate of this vibrant region, explore Western climate.
The climate of Gambia reveals a striking contrast between its dry and wet seasons, characterized by significant temperature fluctuations and variations in precipitation. In the cooler months of January, temperatures can drop to a refreshing 14°C (57°F) in Western, while April witnesses scorching highs of up to 46°C (114°F) in Upper River. Rainfall patterns are equally dramatic, with January experiencing virtually no precipitation in North Bank, escalating to a peak of 321 mm (12.6 in) in August in Western. Humidity also varies widely, from a dry 14% in January to a muggy 88% in August in Upper River, highlighting the dynamic interplay of seasonal transitions. This diverse climatic backdrop not only shapes Gambia's landscapes but also influences its rich biodiversity and cultural practices, making the nation a fascinating subject for exploration.