Last updated: January 18, 2025
Bono, Ghana, is characterized by a tropical savanna climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 16°C (62°F) in January, rising to an average of 27°C (81°F) throughout the year. Notably, March sees maximum temperatures soar to 40°C (104°F), underlining the area's warmth and highlighting the pronounced seasonal variation typical of its climate. This climatic profile presents both challenges and opportunities for local agriculture and livelihoods, shaping the day-to-day experiences of its residents.
In Bono, Ghana, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal trend, characterized by relatively warm conditions throughout the year. The year begins with January's cooler minimum temperatures of 16°C (62°F), gradually rising until March, which features peak temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F). February and March experience the highest maxima while maintaining warm averages of 30°C (85°F) and 29°C (84°F), respectively. As the region transitions into the rainy season in June through August, temperatures start to moderate, with averages dipping to around 25°C (78°F), and maximums decreasing to the low-mid 30s°C (low-mid 90s°F). As the year progresses into the final months, October through December, temperatures remain relatively stable, with averages around 26°C (79°F) to 27°C (81°F) and maximums slightly declining to 35°C (94°F). This consistent warmth, interspersed with brief periods of relief during the rainy season, shapes both the local climate and the livelihoods of its inhabitants.
In the Bono Region of Ghana, Sunyani experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) in December, peaking at 39°C (103°F) in March, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Sunyani. Similarly, Japekrom records a minimum of 17°C (64°F) in December, reaching a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in February, according to the monthly temperatures in Japekrom. Berekum also shows a minimum of 18°C (64°F) in December but has a slightly higher maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Berekum.
Precipitation in Bono, Ghana, displays a pronounced seasonal pattern, primarily concentrated in the months leading up to and during the rainy season. Starting off the year, January sees remarkably low rainfall with just 5 mm (0.2 in) and no precipitation days, while February experiences a slight uptick to 37 mm (1.5 in) over five days. The onset of the rainy season becomes evident in March, where rainfall escalates dramatically to 103 mm (4.1 in) across 16 days, subsequently peaking in the months of April and May with 106 mm (4.2 in) and 107 mm (4.2 in), respectively. This pattern signifies a gradual buildup to the wettest months.
As the rainy season progresses, June through September emerges as the pinnacle of precipitation, with September recording a substantial 207 mm (8.1 in) over 26 days, marking the wettest month. Following this peak, sustained rainfall continues into October (153 mm (6.0 in)) before tapering off in November and December, which see lesser amounts of 67 mm (2.7 in) and 14 mm (0.6 in), respectively. Throughout this period, daily rainfall frequency peaks in July and September, highlighting the region’s reliance on seasonal rains for agriculture and water resources.
In Bono, Ghana, sunshine duration clearly follows a seasonal rhythm, with peak hours observed from late winter to early summer. The year commences with January basking in 254 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing throughout the subsequent months. Notably, March sees a remarkable surge, achieving 293 hours, while April and May deliver even more sunshine, with maxing out at 294 hours and 297 hours, respectively. This consistent rise in sunshine not only highlights the region's transition toward the warmer months but also establishes May as a hallmark period of abundant solar energy, setting the stage for robust agricultural activity.
However, the arrival of the rainy season in June marks a slight decrease in sunshine duration, dropping to 262 hours. The trend continues through July and August, where hours fall to 253 and 243, indicating the cloudier conditions typical of this wet season. As the year advances, sunshine hours begin to rebound in September, reaching 233 hours, and significantly recover in November and December, with 292 hours and a peak of 304 hours, respectively. This seasonal ebb and flow emphasize the importance of sunlight for the local climate and agricultural cycles, influencing both crop yields and the daily lives of residents.
In Bono, Ghana, the Ultraviolet (UV) Index presents a significant concern for residents and visitors alike, with values remaining predominantly in the extreme category throughout the year. From January to March, the UV Index consistently registers at 11, indicating an extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. March witnesses a marginal increase to 12, while April reaches its peak at 14, marking it as the month with the highest potential for skin damage. Despite the high UV levels, the recommended burn time remains notably short at 10 minutes, underscoring the urgency for adequate sun protection during these months.
As the year progresses, the UV Index slightly recedes, maintaining values of 12 in July and 10 in November, categorized as very high. Notably, December sees a decline to 9, still within a concerning range, but allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. Throughout the summer months, particularly from June to September, the UV Index remains stable at 13, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance against sun exposure. This consistent intensity of UV radiation in Bono highlights the importance of protective measures, particularly during peak sunlight hours, to mitigate health risks associated with prolonged exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Bono, Ghana, daylight duration remains relatively consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's tropical climate. The year opens with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable foundation as residents transition into the year. As March arrives, daylight increases to 12 hours, a pattern that continues from March through August. During these months, the consistent twelve hours of daylight presents ample opportunity for agricultural activities, social interactions, and outdoor ventures, which are essential to the community's way of life.
As the year approaches its end, daylight begins to wane slightly, reverting back to 11 hours in October. This reduction continues through November and December, creating a subtle but noticeable shift in daily routines. Despite this variance, the consistent 12-hour daylight span during the mid-year months enables a balanced lifestyle for the residents of Bono, allowing them to adapt comfortably to both daylight and nighttime activities throughout the year.
Berekum, Ghana experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in August to a high of 30°C (86°F) in February. Rainfall peaks from March to September, with September recording the highest precipitation at 189 mm (7.5 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly in December, which boasts 307 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Berekum climate.
The climate in Japekrom, Ghana, is characterized by a tropical pattern with a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C in December to a maximum of 39°C in February and March, with average temperatures typically around 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is highest from May to September, peaking at 198 mm in September, while the dry season experiences minimal rainfall, particularly in January. Sunshine hours are abundant, with December boasting the most at 304 hours. For more detailed information, visit Japekrom climate.
Sunyani, Ghana experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. January witnesses the coolest temperatures with averages around 28°C (83°F) but can peak at 38°C (100°F), while rainfall is minimal at 5 mm. The wet season begins in March, with precipitation peaking in September at 181 mm (7.1 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from December to May, with hours exceeding 280 in several months. For more detailed information, visit Sunyani climate.
Wankyi, Ghana, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from March to September. Temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in February and March. The wettest months are typically May and September, with rainfall peaking at 258 mm (10.2 in) in September. Despite the heavy rains, Wankyi enjoys considerable sunshine, reaching up to 313 hours in December. For more detailed climate information, visit Wankyi climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Bono, Ghana, is characterized by its tropical savanna conditions, marked by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. With warm temperatures persisting year-round, the region experiences a pronounced rainy season that significantly impacts local agriculture and water supply. The high UV index underscores the importance of sun protection, while the stable hours of daylight throughout the year support diverse outdoor activities. Collectively, these climatic elements not only shape the environmental landscape but also influence the daily lives of Bono's residents, highlighting the need for sustainable practices that adapt to the changing climate and promote the well-being of the community.