Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Greater Accra, Ghana, is characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classification of tropical savanna (Aw), resulting in distinct wet and dry seasons. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 21°C (69°F) in December, while the average temperature hovers around 27°C (81°F) year-round. Temperatures can peak at a sweltering 36°C (97°F) in February, illustrating the warm climate that dominates the area. This combination of consistent warmth and seasonal variation plays a crucial role in shaping the local ecology and influences the lifestyle of its inhabitants.
In Greater Accra, Ghana, temperature patterns exhibit notable seasonal trends throughout the year. The region begins the year with warm January temperatures, where minimums are around 21°C (69°F) and maximums reaching 35°C (95°F). February and March follow closely, maintaining high average temperatures of about 28°C (83°F), while peaks climb to 36°C (97°F). As the months progress into the rainy season, temperatures begin to slightly cool, with June and July marking the onset of lower averages around 25°C (78°F) and maximums of 31°C (88°F) in July. This cooler trend persists through August and September, where temperatures average around 25-26°C (77-78°F). However, as the year draws to a close in November and December, temperatures rebound to averages of 28°C (82°F), with maximums reaching 34°C (93°F), illustrating Greater Accra's dynamic and warm climate throughout the seasons.
In Tema, the temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in August and a peak of 35°C (96°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Tema. In contrast, Accra experiences a milder temperature range, also recording a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in August but only reaching a maximum of 31°C (87°F) in April, as shown in the monthly temperatures in Accra.
Precipitation in Greater Accra, Ghana, reveals a distinct seasonal pattern, with rainfall generally increasing as the year progresses. Starting with January, the region experiences relatively low rainfall of 14 mm (0.5 in) over just 3 days, signaling the end of the dry season. As the months change, precipitation begins to rise, peaking in June at 167 mm (6.6 in), occurring across 21 rainy days. This is followed closely by May and July, which also record significant rainfall of 119 mm (4.7 in) and 114 mm (4.5 in) respectively, characteristic of a marked wet season that dominates around mid-year.
As the rainy season shifts into late summer, precipitation begins to decline but remains substantial, with October registering 133 mm (5.2 in) over 22 days. The transition from wet to dry resumes in November, where rainfall drops to 62 mm (2.4 in) with 16 rainy days, while December sees a further decrease to 28 mm (1.1 in). This consistent pattern highlights the seasonal variability of precipitation in Greater Accra, critical for understanding regional agriculture and water resource management throughout the year.
In Greater Accra, Ghana, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, peaking during the months leading into the dry season. Starting from January with 256 hours of sunlight, the region experiences a steady increase through to March, which records an impressive 313 hours. This upward trend continues into April and May, where sunshine hours slightly decline yet remain high at 311 and 308 hours, respectively. The trend highlights how March is often characterized as the sunniest month of the year, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities and agricultural preparation.
As the rainy season approaches, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with June seeing a notable decrease to 271 hours. Despite this dip, there are still significant periods of sunlight through the following months, with July and August reporting 309 and 317 hours, respectively. The sunshine duration remains relatively stable through the rest of the year, with December ending the year on a high note at 319 hours. These patterns indicate that while rainy months may bring clouds, the overall yearly balance allows for considerable sunshine, essential for both residents and local agriculture throughout Greater Accra's climate.
The UV Index in Greater Accra, Ghana, fluctuates significantly throughout the year, indicating varying levels of sun exposure and associated risks. Starting with January, the UV Index is recorded at 10, categorized as very high, which shortens burn time to just 15 minutes. As the year progresses into February and March, the UV Index increases to 11 and 12, respectively, both classified as extreme with a burn time of merely 10 minutes. This trend continues with April reaching a peak UV Index of 14, underscoring the urgent need for sun protection during these months when the risk of skin damage is at its highest.
As the year moves into the later months, the UV Index stabilizes around 12 from June to October, maintaining its extreme exposure category. However, by November, the index drops back to 10 as the exposure category reverts to very high, allowing for a longer burn time of 15 minutes. December shows a further decline to 9, still within the very high range but less intense than the previous months. These trends highlight the importance of sun safety measures in Greater Accra, particularly during the peak summer months, when residents and visitors alike should be particularly vigilant against the harmful effects of prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Greater Accra, Ghana, exhibits a relatively consistent pattern throughout the year, closely mirroring the equatorial climate. From January through February, daylight lasts approximately 11 hours, providing a steady amount of sunlight in the early months. As the seasons progress into March, daylight begins to lengthen slightly, reaching 12 hours and maintaining this duration through April, May, June, and into the late summer months of July and August. This consistency during the mid-year months is indicative of Ghana's geographic location, allowing for ample time to engage in outdoor activities and agricultural tasks.
As the year transitions towards the end, daylight duration begins to decrease once again. In September, daylight remains at 12 hours, but it dips back to 11 hours by October, and continues through November and December. This gradual reduction in daylight indicates a cyclical pattern, reflective of the region's equatorial positioning where daylight remains consistently abundant while slightly fluctuating with the seasons. Overall, the relatively stable daylight hours throughout the year play a vital role in the daily lives of the residents in Greater Accra, facilitating various economic and recreational activities.
Accra, Ghana, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Monthly average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in August to a peak of around 28°C (82°F) during the warmer months. Rainfall primarily occurs from May to July, with June recording the highest precipitation at 190 mm (7.5 in). Despite the wet season, Accra enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 317 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Accra climate.
The climate in Tema, Ghana, is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, with averages ranging from 26°C (79°F) in the cooler months to 29°C (84°F) in the warmer months. The hottest months are generally February to April, where maximum temperatures reach up to 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is most prevalent from May to July, with June recording the highest precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in). Despite the rain, Tema enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in August, with over 318 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Tema climate.
In conclusion, Greater Accra, Ghana, showcases a unique climate characterized by warm temperatures, notable rainfall patterns, and abundant sunlight throughout the year. The region experiences significant variations in weather elements, such as a substantial increase in precipitation during the wet season alongside high UV Index levels that necessitate sun safety precautions. Despite the challenges posed by extreme UV exposure and seasonal rainfall, the duration of daylight remains relatively constant, supporting a thriving lifestyle for its residents. Understanding these climatic dynamics is essential for effective resource management, agricultural planning, and developing strategies for health and wellness in the face of environmental changes. Ultimately, Greater Accra's climate offers both opportunities and challenges that shape the experiences of its community.