Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Lower River, Gambia, showcases a distinct classification under the Köppen-Geiger system, primarily featuring Aw (tropical savanna) and BSh (semi-arid) categories. This region experiences a remarkable temperature range, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F) during the cooler month of January, peaking at an extraordinary 44°C (112°F) in April. Throughout the year, the average temperature hovers around 28°C (83°F), highlighting the consistent warmth characteristic of this part of sub-Saharan Africa. The interplay of tropical and semi-arid conditions shapes the unique environmental and climatic conditions, influencing both the local ecosystem and human activities.
In Lower River, Gambia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The cooler months of January and February see minimum temperatures range from 14°C (58°F) to 16°C (61°F), accompanied by comfortable averages of 25°C (78°F) in January and 27°C (81°F) in February. As the region transitions into March and April, temperatures rise significantly, with maxima reaching 44°C (112°F) and average temperatures climbing to 30°C (86°F), creating a notably hot pre-monsoon period. Although temperatures slightly ease in May, the heat remains intense, with steady averages persisting. The onset of the rainy season in June brings a minor drop in temperature, maintaining averages around 30°C (86°F), but the cooler dry months of July through September see a gentle decline, with averages fluctuating between 27°C (82°F) and 29°C (84°F). The year concludes with a transition back to cooler conditions in November and December, as temperatures dip to a minimum of 15°C (59°F), illustrating a characteristic cycle of warmth tempered by cooler periods in this tropical environment.
In the Lower River region of Gambia, temperatures exhibit notable patterns throughout the year. In Sibito, the temperature ranges from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (110°F) in April monthly temperatures in Sibito. Similarly, Soma experiences a minimum of 15°C (58°F) in January, reaching up to 43°C (110°F) in May monthly temperatures in Soma. Sukuta sees slightly higher extremes, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January and a maximum of 44°C (112°F) in May monthly temperatures in Sukuta.
Lower River, Gambia, experiences a pronounced dry season from January to May, with no recorded precipitation throughout these months. This extended absence of rain characterizes the region's arid conditions, leading to parched landscapes and minimal moisture availability. As the rainy season begins in June, the onset of precipitation is gradual, with only 25 mm (1.0 in) of rainfall over 3 days, marking the transition into a more humid climate.
The heart of the rainy season occurs from July to September, where significant rainfall accumulates, peaking in August with an impressive 307 mm (12.1 in) over 23 days. This period is crucial for the local ecosystem, replenishing water sources and supporting agriculture. However, as October approaches, precipitation begins to wane, dropping to 53 mm (2.1 in), before sharply declining in November and ceasing by December. The seasonal precipitation patterns illustrate the stark contrast between the dry and wet seasons, fundamentally influencing the region's climate and socio-economic activities.
In Lower River, Gambia, sunshine duration demonstrates a notable seasonal trend characterized by a steady increase in hours from the cooler months to the heart of the dry season. Beginning in January with 252 hours of sun, the hours gradually rise, reaching 283 hours in February. This upward trajectory peaks in May with an impressive 348 hours of sunshine, offering some of the sunniest days of the year as temperatures climb and dry conditions prevail. The consistent availability of sunlight during these months not only enhances agricultural activities but also promotes outdoor pursuits, providing a crucial energy boost to both the environment and local communities.
As the rainy season approaches in June, sunshine hours begin to taper off slightly, accounting for 325 hours of sunlight. While July experiences a further decrease to 306 hours, it remains within a generous range compared to other regions. The months of August and September see a dip in sunshine, with 271 hours and 284 hours respectively, aligning with the peak rainfalls. However, October marks a resurgence in sunlight with 311 hours, indicating a transition towards clearer conditions. Notably, November and December maintain similar levels of sunshine as October, each receiving 301 hours and 311 hours. This cyclic pattern underscores the vital role of sunlight in shaping both the climate and lifestyle in Lower River, Gambia.
The UV Index in Lower River, Gambia, exhibits a robust seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's intense sunlight, particularly during the dry months. Starting from January with a UV Index of 9, indicating a "very high" level of exposure, residents are advised to take precautions as skin can burn within 15 minutes. As the region transitions into February, the index increases to 10, similarly categorizing it as "very high." Notably, from March to June, the UV Index escalates to 13, classifying it as "extreme," with the burn time decreasing to only 10 minutes. This concentrated period of extreme UV exposure underscores the need for effective sun protection measures as temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase.
The peak UV Index occurs in August and September, reaching 14—the highest on the scale—while maintaining an extreme exposure category. Despite the onset of the rainy season during these months, the potential for harmful UV radiation remains significant, necessitating vigilance among residents and visitors alike. Following this peak, the UV readings lessen slightly in October to 12 before returning to "very high" readings of 9 in both November and December. This pattern reinforces the need for continuous awareness of UV exposure throughout the year, particularly during the sun's strongest months, highlighting the importance of sun safety practices in Lower River.
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Daylight duration in Lower River, Gambia, presents a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that reflect the region's equatorial position. In the months of January and February, each day encompasses approximately 11 hours of sunlight, providing a consistent but shorter light exposure as the year begins. As March approaches, daylight extends slightly to 12 hours, a change that continues through the end of October. This period of increased daylight coincides with the transition from the cool, dry season into the warmer months, offering ample hours for agricultural activities and daily life under the sun.
From November to December, daylight duration reverts to 11 hours, marking a subtle return to shorter days as the year concludes. Throughout the months of March to October, the uniform 12-hour exposure plays a crucial role in the region’s climate, fostering a steady rhythm of day and night. This consistency in daylight duration, characteristic of equatorial climates, contributes to the reliable agricultural cycles and supports the local ecosystem's biodiversity, highlighting the essential interplay between sunlight and life in Lower River, Gambia.
Bajana, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in March and April, with an average around 28°C (82°F). The rainy season occurs primarily from June to September, with August receiving the highest precipitation at 321 mm (12.6 in). The sun shines brightly throughout the year, especially in May, which boasts 347 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Bajana climate.
Baro Kunda, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, temperatures soar, peaking at 44°C (111°F) in April, with minimal rainfall. The rainy season starts in June, bringing heavy precipitation in July and August, where average monthly rainfall reaches 284 mm (11.2 in). Despite the wet conditions during summer, sunshine remains abundant, especially in the dry months, which receive over 300 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Baro Kunda climate.
The climate in Buiba Mandinka, Gambia, is characterized by a distinct dry season from January to May, with temperatures soaring up to 43°C (109°F) in April and May. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with significant rainfall of 309 mm (12.2 in) and milder temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in May at 348 hours. While December and January exhibit cooler temperatures, the overall climate remains warm and relatively dry for most of the year. For more details, visit Buiba Mandinka climate.
Bureng, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to April, temperatures soar, peaking at 44°C (111°F) in April, while minimal precipitation is recorded. The rainy season begins in May, with substantial rainfall peaking in August at 284 mm (11.2 in), and temperatures moderate to around 28°C (82°F). Sunshine is abundant year-round, with the highest hours recorded in May at 347. For more detailed climate information, visit Bureng climate.
The climate in Diganteh, Gambia, is characterized by a hot and dry season followed by a wet season. Temperatures soar from a minimum of 15°C in January to a peak of 44°C in March and April. Rainfall is minimal from January to April, with the wettest months occurring in July (237 mm) and August (335 mm). Despite the heat, Diganteh enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May, which boasts 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Diganteh climate.
Dongoro Ba, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, temperatures peak, with averages reaching up to 31°C (89°F) in April, while precipitation remains minimal. The rainy season occurs from June to September, marked by substantial rainfall, especially in August with 284 mm (11.2 in). Despite this, sunshine hours remain plentiful throughout the year, with the highest in May at 347 hours. For more details, visit Dongoro Ba climate.
The climate in Dumbutu, Gambia, features a hot and dry season from January to May, with average temperatures rising from 26°C (78°F) in January to around 30°C (86°F) by May. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with significant precipitation reaching up to 327 mm (12.9 in). During this time, temperatures remain high but slightly decrease to an average of 27°C (81°F) in August. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the most hours recorded in May at 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Dumbutu climate.
Jali, Gambia, experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures peaking in March and April at highs of up to 43°C (109°F). The rainy season begins in June, bringing significant precipitation, particularly in August with 321 mm (12.6 in) of rain. Despite this, Jali enjoys abundant sunshine, with peak hours in May (347 hours) and a relatively sunny year overall. January to May and November to December are characterized by dry conditions and minimal rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Jali climate.
In January, Janneh Kunda, Gambia experiences warm temperatures with a minimum of 14°C (58°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and a maximum of 38°C (100°F). The month is characterized by dry conditions, receiving no precipitation and enjoying significant sunshine, totaling 251 hours. With clear skies and warm weather, it's an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Janneh Kunda climate.
Jassong, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From April to August, temperatures peak, with averages reaching 31°C (88°F) and maximums soaring up to 44°C (112°F), while rainfall significantly increases, particularly in July and August with over 178 mm and 284 mm, respectively. The driest months, from January to March, see no precipitation and average temperatures around 30°C (86°F). Sunshine is abundant year-round, especially in February and March, with up to 335 hours, making it an appealing destination for sun-seekers. For more details, visit Jassong climate.
The climate in Jenoi, Gambia, is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures rise significantly, with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F) in April and May, and little to no precipitation. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with 309 mm (12.2 in) of rain, while temperatures remain moderate between 22°C (71°F) and 30°C (86°F). The region enjoys ample sunshine year-round, with the most hours recorded in May at 348 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jenoi climate.
Jifarong, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. From January to May, temperatures rise, peaking in March and April with highs reaching 44°C (111°F) and 112°F (44°C), respectively, while remaining dry. The rainy season begins in June, with significant precipitation, particularly in August, which sees 327 mm (12.9 in) of rain. Sunshine is plentiful throughout the year, with May boasting the most sun at 347 hours, while the wet months maintain a decent amount of sunlight. For more details on the climate, visit Jifarong climate.
Jiffin, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures soar with averages peaking at 30°C (86°F) and maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F). The rainy season begins in June, bringing significant precipitation, peaking in August with 309 mm (12.2 in) and lower temperatures averaging around 27°C (82°F). Sunshine hours are abundant year-round, with the highest in May at 348 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jiffin climate.
Jiroff, Gambia experiences a distinct climate with high temperatures throughout the year, peaking in April and May, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 43°C (110°F). The dry season spans from January to May, recording no precipitation, while the wet season from June to October experiences significant rainfall, particularly in August with 306 mm (12.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to May, with over 330 hours of sunlight per month. The climate is characterized by warm nights, with minimum temperatures gradually rising during the year. For more detailed information, visit Jiroff climate.
Kaiaf, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by a significant temperature range and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures soar, peaking in April and May, with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F). The rainy season begins in June, leading to substantial precipitation, particularly in August with 309 mm (12.2 in). Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant year-round, with May boasting the highest sunshine hours at 348. For more detailed information, visit Kaiaf climate.
Karantaba, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with significant variations in temperature and rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in April and May, while the average stays between 25°C (78°F) and 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, but dramatically increases during the rainy season from June to September, peaking at 309 mm (12.2 in) in August. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, with the most hours recorded in May (348 hours) and the least in August (273 hours). For more detailed information, visit Karantaba climate.
Keneba, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures are generally high throughout the year, with averages ranging from 25°C (77°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in June and October. The rainy season peaks in July and August, with August recording the highest precipitation at 321 mm (12.6 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from February to May, with March enjoying the most hours at 335. For more detailed information, visit Keneba climate.
Kuli Kunda, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round and a distinct wet season. From January to May, temperatures soar with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F) in March and April, while rainfall is almost nonexistent. The wet season begins in June, peaking in August with over 321 mm (12.6 in) of rain, which coincides with slightly cooler temperatures. Notably, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May boasting the highest hours at 347. For a detailed overview, visit Kuli Kunda climate.
Madina, Gambia experiences a hot and dry tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a peak of 44°C (111°F) in April and May. The rainy season spans from June to September, with August being the wettest month, receiving 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain. Throughout the year, sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours in May at 347, fostering a generally sunny atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Madina climate.
Mansa Konko, Gambia, experiences a hot, tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures soar, peaking in April and May with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F), accompanied by little to no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, with significant precipitation peaking in August at 309 mm (12.2 in), while temperatures moderate during this period. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the dry months, with March averaging 335 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit Mansa Konko climate.
Massembe, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to May, temperatures rise, reaching up to 43°C (110°F) in April, with little to no precipitation. The wet season begins in June, peaking in August with heavy rainfall of up to 306 mm (12.1 in), while temperatures remain warm, averaging 28°C (82°F). Sunshine hours are abundant throughout the year, with May having the highest at 348 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Massembe climate.
Nioro, Gambia, experiences a hot climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to April, temperatures rise significantly, peaking in April at a maximum of 44°C (112°F) with minimal rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, bringing substantial precipitation, particularly in August with 327 mm (12.9 in) and cooler average temperatures around 27°C (81°F). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with May boasting the highest at 347 hours. For more detailed information, visit Nioro climate.
The climate in Sankandi, Gambia, is characterized by a hot and dry season from January to May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 44°C (111°F) in March and April. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with nearly 327 mm (12.9 in) of rainfall. Average temperatures range from 26°C (78°F) in January to around 30°C (86°F) during the warmest months. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, with May recording up to 347 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Sankandi climate.
The climate in Sankwia, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. From January to May, temperatures soar with maximums reaching up to 43°C (109°F) in April and May, while precipitation is non-existent. The rainy season follows from June to September, with rainfall peaking in August at 309 mm (12.2 in), causing a drop in average temperatures. Sunshine hours remain plentiful, especially from March to May, providing over 330 hours of sunlight per month. For more detailed information, visit Sankwia climate.
Si Kunda, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. From January to May, temperatures peak, reaching a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in April and May, while June marks the onset of the rainy season, bringing increased precipitation, particularly in July and August, with totals of 187 mm (7.3 in) and 309 mm (12.2 in), respectively. The dry months, including December to April, see little to no rainfall and abundant sunshine, averaging up to 348 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Si Kunda climate.
Sibito, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round, with average highs reaching up to 43°C (110°F) in April and May. The cooler months of January to March see temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 28°C (83°F), while the wet season from June to September brings significant rainfall, peaking in August with 306 mm (12.1 in). Sunshine is plentiful, with January and February receiving over 250 hours of sun, but cloud cover increases during the rainy months. Overall, the climate is hot and dry for most of the year, with a distinct wet season affecting the later months. For more detailed information, visit Sibito climate.
Soma, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C to a maximum of 43°C, with little to no precipitation during these months. The rainy season runs from June to September, peaking in August with 309 mm of rainfall, while average temperatures drop slightly. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, peaking in May with 348 hours. For more details, visit Soma climate.
Sukuta, Gambia experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures peaking in April and May, often reaching up to 44°C (111°F). The rainy season occurs from June to September, with August receiving the highest precipitation of approximately 284 mm (11.2 in). Despite the heat, daylight is abundant, especially from March to May, where monthly sunshine hours range from 333 to 347 hours. Dry months like January to April see little to no rainfall, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Sukuta climate.
Sutukung, Gambia experiences a typically hot and dry climate, with temperatures peaking during the months of March through May, where daily maximums can reach up to 44°C (111°F). The region sees minimal rainfall from January to April, but precipitation dramatically increases from June to August, particularly in July when it receives an average of 178 mm (7.0 in). During the dry season, Sutukung enjoys ample sunshine, with February offering the highest at 283 hours. As the rainy season approaches, cloud cover increases, yet the area still benefits from significant sun exposure year-round. For more information, visit Sutukung climate.
Tankular, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to May, temperatures can soar to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) with little to no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August, where precipitation reaches up to 295 mm (11.6 in), leading to cooler temperatures around 27–29°C (82–84°F). Sunshine is plentiful, with the sunniest month being May, boasting 348 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Tankular climate.
The climate in Toniataba, Gambia, is characterized by a distinct dry season from January to May, featuring high temperatures that can reach up to 43°C (109°F) in April and May. The rainy season begins in June, with significant precipitation peaking in August at 309 mm (12.2 in). Overall, temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from a minimum of 15°C (58°F) in January to an average of 30°C (86°F) during the summer months. Notably, sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in May with 348 hours. For more details, visit Toniataba climate.
The climate in Wellingara Ba, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 25°C (78°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in April and May. The region experiences distinct wet and dry seasons; nearly all rainfall occurs between June and September, with August being the wettest month at 309 mm (12.2 in). Sunshine levels are high, reaching up to 348 hours in May, while the dry months of January through May see little to no precipitation. For more detailed climate information, visit Wellingara Ba climate.
The climate in Wurokang, Gambia, is characterized by a hot and dry period from January to May, with temperatures reaching up to 43°C (110°F) in April and May. Rainfall begins in June, peaking in August with 306 mm (12.1 in) of precipitation. Temperature averages stabilize around 29°C (84°F) during the wet months, while July and August see milder highs around 35-38°C (95-101°F). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from March to May, with up to 348 hours of sunshine in May. For more details, visit Wurokang climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Lower River, Gambia, is marked by distinct patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight, all contributing to the region's unique environmental dynamics. The noticeable seasonal shifts—from the dry months with high UV exposure and extended daylight to the wet season characterized by significant rainfall—illustrate the intricate balance between climate factors. This harmony influences agricultural practices, local ecosystems, and the daily lives of residents, underscoring the importance of understanding climate trends for sustainable living in this vibrant part of sub-Saharan Africa. Continuous awareness and adaptation to these climatic conditions will be essential for the communities in Lower River as they navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by their environment.