Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of North Bank, Gambia, is characterized by distinct Köppen-Geiger climate classes Aw (tropical savanna) and BSh (semi-arid). The region exhibits a temperature range that highlights its climatic diversity: temperatures dip to a minimum of 14°C (58°F) during January, rise to an average of 27°C (82°F) annually, and peak at a scorching 44°C (112°F) in May. These fluctuations underpin the seasonal changes experienced in North Bank, further emphasizing its unique ecological and agricultural significance.
North Bank, Gambia, displays a distinctive temperature pattern throughout the year, marked by significant seasonal variations. The coolest month is January, with minimum temperatures around 14°C (58°F), gradually rising to 16°C (61°F) in February and stabilizing in the mid-20s°C range for several months. As the year progresses into the dry season, temperatures reach their peak in April and May, where maximums soar to 44°C (111°F) and 44°C (112°F) respectively, reflecting the region's intense heat. Following this, temperatures begin to moderate slightly with the onset of the rainy season in June, where the cooler minimums of 20°C (69°F) and maximums dip to 42°C (108°F) indicate a gradual respite from the heat. By August and September, average temperatures hover around 27-28°C (81-82°F), showcasing a trend of cooling, particularly noticeable in maximums which fall to 35°C (96°F) in August. This seasonal progression underscores the climatic contrasts that define North Bank, with hot, dry months giving way to warmer, humid conditions during the rainy season.
Yallal experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a peak of 43°C (110°F) in April, as detailed in monthly temperatures in Yallal. Similarly, Kumbijae shares a minimum of 15°C (58°F) in January, reaching the same maximum of 43°C (110°F) in May, highlighted in monthly temperatures in Kumbijae. Meanwhile, Daru Rilwan records slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January and a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in April, as noted in monthly temperatures in Daru Rilwan.
North Bank, Gambia, experiences a pronounced precipitation pattern characterized by a stark contrast between dry and wet seasons. From January to May, the region remains virtually devoid of rainfall, with 0 mm recorded for each of these months. This dry spell culminates in a significant shift come June, when the first rains arrive, bringing 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 2 days. The precipitation escalates dramatically in the subsequent months, peaking in August with an impressive 297 mm (11.7 in) accumulated over 22 days, reflecting the height of the rainy season.
As the rainy season wanes, the amount of rainfall begins to decline, with September receiving 218 mm (8.6 in) over 19 days and October tapering off to 52 mm (2.1 in) spread across 7 days. November sees a further decrease, dropping to a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) before transitioning back to a dry state by December. The gradual increase and decrease in moisture levels underscore the region's dependency on the brief yet intense rainy season for agricultural and ecological sustenance, which is paramount to the livelihoods of local communities.
In North Bank, Gambia, sunshine duration reveals a marked seasonal trend, emphasizing the contrast between the dry and wet seasons. The year begins with 251 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing through February to reach 283 hours. As the dry season unfolds, March and April experience a notable rise, with March basking in 335 hours and April slightly trailing at 334 hours. May takes the lead, showcasing an impressive 348 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for optimal weather conditions that are characteristic of this period. June continues to provide ample sunlight with 326 hours, but as the rainy season approaches, the hours begin to decline.
As the rains set in during July and August, the available sunshine decreases, with 310 hours in July diminishing further to 277 hours in August—marking the lowest sunshine duration of the year. However, September sees a rebound to 286 hours, indicating a transitional phase where sunlight begins to resurface. As the year concludes, sunshine duration stabilizes, with October recording 313 hours, November taking a slight dip to 302 hours, and December ending the year with a respectable 311 hours. This seasonal pattern not only highlights the region's climatic variability but also underscores the importance of sunlight for agriculture and local ecosystems throughout the year.
In North Bank, Gambia, the UV Index illustrates a clear seasonal pattern, characterized by very high to extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. January and February start strong with a UV Index of 9 and 10, respectively, indicating very high exposure levels, where skin can begin to burn after just 15 minutes of direct sunlight. As the region transitions into March, the UV Index escalates to 13—a mark of extreme exposure—persisting through the following months of April, May, and June, where the recommended burn time dramatically reduces to just 10 minutes.
The summer months intensify the UV Index further, peaking at 14 in August and September, reinforcing the critical importance of sun protection during this period. As conditions shift towards autumn, the UV Index drops to 12 in October before settling back to 9 in November and December, reverting to very high levels. This sustained exposure throughout the year highlights a significant risk for skin damage, necessitating robust preventive measures against UV radiation to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors in the region.
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In North Bank, Gambia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate. From January to February, the amount of daylight remains consistent at 11 hours per day, offering residents a steady balance of light and dark. As March approaches, daylight begins to increase slightly, reaching 12 hours and continuing at this duration through to June. This period of extended daylight coincides with the dry season, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
However, as the rainy season commences in July, daylight duration maintains consistency at 12 hours, which continues through August and September. This steady exposure to daylight aids in supporting biological rhythms and local ecosystems. Following this peak, October sees a slight decline back to 11 hours, a pattern that persists through November and December. Overall, the gradual transitions in daylight hours create a reliable framework for both agriculture and daily life in the region, reinforcing the importance of sunlight in sustaining the local environment and community.
Bambali, Gambia experiences a hot and dry tropical climate with significant seasonal temperature variations. From January to April, temperatures soar, peaking at 44°C (111°F) in April, while minimal rainfall characterizes these months. The rainy season arrives in June with July and August receiving the most precipitation, totaling 178 mm (7.0 in) and 284 mm (11.2 in), respectively. Despite the rainfall, Bambali enjoys ample sunshine, with May recording the highest at 347 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Bambali climate.
Bantang Killing, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round and a distinct wet season from June to September. Average temperatures range from 25°C (78°F) in January to 29°C (85°F) during the warmer months, with maximums peaking at 43°C (110°F) in April and May. Precipitation is minimal from January to May, but heavy rainfall occurs in July and August, totaling over 300 mm (12.1 in). The region benefits from significant sunshine, especially in the dry months, averaging up to 348 hours in May. For more details, visit Bantang Killing climate.
Barra, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures fluctuate between 16°C and 39°C, with minimal rainfall recorded until June. The rainy season peaks from July to September, bringing significant precipitation, with August receiving an average of 278 mm (10.9 in). The dry months of October to December see a return to higher temperatures and reduced rainfall, averaging 0 mm in January and December. For more details on the weather patterns, visit Barra climate.
Chilla, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with high temperatures throughout the year, peaking in April at a maximum of 43°C (109°F). The dry season spans from January to May, with no recorded precipitation, while the rainy season peaks in July and August, bringing significant rainfall of 152 mm (6.0 in) and 282 mm (11.1 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in March and May, when it averages over 340 hours. Overall, the climate is characterized by high heat, especially during the summer months, making it essential for visitors to prepare for the warmth. For more details, visit Chilla climate.
The climate in Daru Rilwan, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to May, temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 42°C (108°F), with little to no rainfall. The rainy season peaks from July to September, where precipitation can reach up to 295 mm (11.6 in) in August, while temperatures remain warm, averaging around 28°C (82°F). Sunshine hours are plentiful throughout the year, with the highest recorded in May at 348 hours. For more detailed information, visit Daru Rilwan climate.
Dobo, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures range from 14°C to 42°C (58°F to 108°F) with virtually no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with significant precipitation, reaching up to 295 mm (11.6 in). Despite the rains, Dobo enjoys plentiful sunshine throughout the year, with May having the highest hours at 348. For more detailed information, visit Dobo climate.
Essau, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season. The temperature ranges from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in April, with averages around 24-29°C (75-84°F) throughout the year. Rainfall is minimal from January to May, with significant precipitation occurring from June to September, peaking in August with 278 mm (10.9 in). Despite the rainy season, Essau enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the dry months, with March and April receiving over 330 hours of sun. For more details, visit Essau climate.
Farafenni, Gambia experiences a 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 43°C (109°F). The rainy season begins in June, bringing significant precipitation, especially in August, which records 309 mm (12.2 in). Despite the rains, sunshine remains abundant throughout the year, with May enjoying the most sunshine at 348 hours. For more details on the climate, visit Farafenni climate.
Gunjur, Gambia experiences a hot climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. From January to March, temperatures frequently peak between 38°C (100°F) and 41°C (106°F), while the hottest months, April and May, can reach up to 42°C (108°F). The rainy season starts in June, peaking in August with an average of 295 mm of rainfall. Despite the rain, Gunjur enjoys abundant sunshine, with May boasting the highest at 348 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Gunjur climate.
The climate in India, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures steadily rise, peaking in April and May with maximums reaching up to 43°C (110°F). The rainy season begins in June, bringing substantial precipitation, particularly in August with 306 mm (12.1 in) of rainfall. Despite the increased rainfall during these months, sunshine duration remains significant, with May averaging 348 hours of sun. For more details, visit India climate.
The climate in Jeriko, Gambia is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January to May sees minimal rainfall with average maximum temperatures reaching up to 43°C (110°F) in April, while temperatures dip slightly during the rainy season from June to October, with July experiencing the heaviest rainfall at 171 mm (6.7 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in May with 348 hours. Dry months like November and December bring comfortable temperatures and clear skies. For more detailed information, visit Jeriko climate.
Katchang, 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 43°C (110°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, but from June to September, substantial precipitation occurs, peaking in August with 306 mm (12.1 in). Despite the heat, Katchang enjoys significant sunshine year-round, with the sunniest month being May, totaling 348 hours. For more information on weather patterns, visit Katchang climate.
Kerewan, Gambia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The temperature ranges from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in April and May, with average temperatures generally around 28°C (82°F) during the hottest months. Rainfall is minimal from January to May, with significant precipitation occurring from June to September, particularly in August, which receives up to 295 mm (11.6 in) of rain. Despite the rainy season, Kerewan enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 348 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Kerewan climate.
Kinteh Kunda, Gambia experiences a tropical climate with a significant temperature range throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in January to a peak of 29°C (84°F) in the warmer months, with maximums reaching 42°C (108°F) in April and May. Rainfall is scarce from January to May, followed by a wet season from June to September, with August being the wettest month at 295 mm (11.6 in) of precipitation. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the dry months, with up to 348 hours in May. For more details, visit Kinteh Kunda climate.
Kumbijae, Gambia experiences a hot tropical climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January to May sees high temperatures ranging from 25°C to 43°C (78°F to 109°F) and little to no rainfall, while the rainy season from June to September brings a sharp increase in precipitation, peaking in August with 309 mm (12.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from March to May, averaging over 300 hours of sunshine per month. By November, temperatures remain warm, averaging 28°C (83°F), but rainfall diminishes. For more details, visit Kumbijae climate.
Lamin, Gambia experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January to May sees minimal rainfall and high average temperatures ranging from 25°C (76°F) to 26°C (79°F), peaking in April at 39°C (103°F). The rainy season begins in June, with August being the wettest month, receiving 312 mm (12.3 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in May at 347 hours. For a more detailed overview, visit Lamin climate.
The climate in Medina Kanuma, Gambia, is characterized by a hot and dry season from January to May, with temperatures reaching up to 39°C (102°F). The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with substantial precipitation of up to 278 mm (10.9 in), leading to cooler temperatures averaging 27–29°C (81–84°F). Throughout the year, Medina Kanuma enjoys significant sunshine, with March and May offering the most hours at 336 and 348, respectively. The dry months feature little to no rainfall, while the wet season provides relief from the heat. For more information, visit Medina Kanuma climate.
No Kunda, Gambia experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures peaking in April and May, reaching highs of up to 43°C (110°F). The wet season occurs from June to September, with August receiving the most rainfall at 306 mm (12.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from February to May, with March seeing up to 335 hours of sun. The cooler months of December and January bring mild temperatures with minimal precipitation. For more details on the climate, please visit No Kunda climate.
The climate in Saba, Gambia, is characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 42°C (108°F), with little to no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with 295 mm (11.6 in) of precipitation, and cooler temperatures around 22°C (72°F). Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in May at 348 hours. For more details, visit Saba climate.
The climate in Sara Kunda, Gambia, is characterized by a distinct dry season from January to May, followed by a wet season from June to October. Temperatures are high throughout the year, peaking in April and May with maximums reaching 43°C (109°F) and 43°C (110°F) respectively, while cooling slightly during the rainy months. Precipitation is negligible during the dry season, increasing significantly from June to August, with August recording the highest rainfall of 309 mm (12.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in March and May, with up to 348 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Sara Kunda climate.
The climate in Tambana, Gambia, is characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in April, with average temperatures hovering around 27-29°C (81-84°F) from May to October. The dry season, marked by no rainfall from January to May, gives way to a rainy season from June to September, with August being the wettest month, recording 282 mm (11.1 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in March with 336 hours, and generally remains high throughout the year. For more details, visit Tambana climate.
Yallal, Gambia experiences a tropical climate with distinct temperature variations throughout the year. January to May sees temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to a peak of 43°C (110°F) in April, with virtually no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with 306 mm (12.1 in) of precipitation, and cooler temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F). Despite the summer rains, sunshine remains abundant, particularly from February to May, where monthly sunshine hours exceed 300. For more detailed information, visit Yallal climate.
In conclusion, the climatic dynamics of North Bank, Gambia, with its diverse temperature patterns, significant precipitation variability, pronounced UV Index levels, and consistent daylight duration, paint a comprehensive picture of the region's unique environment. The stark contrast between the dry and wet seasons not only shapes the local ecosystem but also defines agricultural practices and the daily lives of its inhabitants. By understanding these climatic trends, residents and policymakers can better navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the tropical climate, ensuring sustainable development and effective resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.