Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Western North, Ghana, is characterized by a Köppen-Geiger classification of Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate. Temperatures exhibit a significant range throughout the year, with minimums dropping to 17°C (63°F) in January, while the average temperature hovers around 27°C (80°F). The region experiences its peak heat in March, where maximum temperatures can soar to 38°C (100°F). This climatic profile underscores the region's distinct seasonal variations and the potential impacts on local ecosystems and agricultural practices.
In Western North, Ghana, temperature patterns exhibit notable seasonal trends throughout the year. January marks the onset of cooler temperatures, with minimums around 17°C (63°F) and highs peaking at 36°C (97°F). As the region transitions into February and March, temperatures begin to rise, reaching maximums of 38°C (100°F), while monthly averages stabilize around the upper 20s °C. The onset of April brings a slight cooling trend with maximums decreasing to 36°C (97°F) before gradually declining further into the rainy season from May to August, where cooler average temperatures range from 25°C (78°F) to 27°C (81°F) and peak highs drop to around 33°C (91°F). The transition back to warmer conditions occurs in October through December, with minimums returning to the low 20s °C, culminating in maximums of 35°C (95°F) in December. This cyclical pattern illustrates the region's tropical climate, marked by distinct warm and cooler months influenced by seasonal shifts.
Sefwi Wiawso experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January and peaking at a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in March. For more detailed monthly temperatures, you can refer to the link: monthly temperatures in Sefwi Wiawso.
Precipitation patterns in Western North, Ghana, reveal a distinct seasonal shift, with significant rainfall primarily concentrated from March to October. Monthly rainfall starts relatively low in January at 16 mm (0.6 in), but this amount increases dramatically in February to 41 mm (1.6 in) and further escalates, peaking in September with a notable 202 mm (8.0 in). The months of March through June experience the heaviest rainfall, with May reaching 156 mm (6.2 in), indicating the onset of the main rainy season. This period not only highlights intense precipitation but also an increase in the number of rainy days, particularly evident in June with 26 days of rain.
As the rainy season continues, the region maintains high precipitation levels into October, averaging 195 mm (7.7 in), while November sees a decline to 70 mm (2.7 in), and December follows with only 24 mm (0.9 in). The overall distribution of rainfall demonstrates a clear dry spell in the early months of the year, transitioning to a wet season characterized by frequent downpours and prolonged periods of rainfall. This shift plays a crucial role in the local climate and significantly impacts agriculture, water resources, and ecosystem dynamics throughout the region.
In Western North, Ghana, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal variation, with the months of January through May marking a gradual increase in sunlight. Starting with 236 hours in January, the region experiences a steady uptick, culminating in a peak of 281 hours in May. This period not only signifies the transition from the dry season to the beginning of the rainy season, but it also highlights the best months for solar energy and outdoor activities, therefore enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods. April and May, in particular, are notable for their abundant sunshine, allowing for optimal growing conditions before the onset of heavier rains.
As the region shifts into the rainy months of June through September, sunshine hours noticeably decline, reaching their lowest point in September with 219 hours. This dip reflects the increased cloud cover and precipitation associated with the rainy season. However, October experiences a slight recovery, with 240 hours of sunshine, indicating the gradual return to clearer skies. Notably, December sees a resurgence with 283 hours, welcoming the dry season with bright, sunny days. This cyclical pattern of sunshine underscores the importance of seasonal sunlight in shaping the local climate, agriculture, and overall ecosystem dynamics, highlighting both the benefits and challenges associated with variability in sunlight throughout the year.
In Western North, Ghana, the UV Index exhibits a striking trend throughout the year, consistently indicating a high level of solar radiation. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 10, categorized as very high, the intensity of UV radiation escalates rapidly. By February, the index rises to 11, reaching extreme levels in March and peaking at 14 in April. This period corresponds with the dry season, where prolonged sun exposure necessitates heightened awareness and protective measures against skin damage. With a notably short burn time of just 10 minutes during these months, residents and visitors are advised to minimize direct sunlight exposure during peak hours.
As the rainy season approaches in June, the UV Index remains high, ranging from 12 to 13 but sustains its extreme categorization until October. The burn time remains critically low at 10 minutes, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance against UV exposure even during cloudier months. Interestingly, November sees a slight decrease to 10, and December further declines to 9, transitioning back to the very high category. While these months offer slight relief, they still warrant attention as UV radiation can have lasting effects, particularly for populations engaged in outdoor activities. Overall, the persistent high UV Index across the year highlights the importance of sun safety practices in this tropical region.
UV Risk Categories
In Western North, Ghana, daylight duration presents a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with slight variations primarily influenced by seasonal changes. January and February offer 11 hours of daylight, providing consistent lighting for daily activities in the early months of the year. This consistency continues into March when daylight increases to 12 hours, a duration that remains steady through April, May, and into the heart of the rainy season in June, July, and August. This stable length of daylight supports local agricultural cycles, allowing farmers to maximize their productive hours during the growing season.
As the year progresses into the later months, daylight duration begins to taper off once again, with October, November, and December each offering 11 hours of daylight. This gradual decrease reflects the transition into the drier season, highlighting the dynamic interplay between solar patterns and local climate conditions. Throughout the year, the consistent availability of approximately 11 to 12 hours of daylight aids in maintaining ecological balance, as well as for ensuring that communities can engage in both agricultural and social activities, even amidst variations in weather patterns.
Sefwi Wiawso, Ghana experiences a tropical climate marked by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from March to October. January sees average temperatures around 28°C (82°F), with a peak in February of up to 38°C (100°F). Rainfall is heaviest in May and September, accumulating over 150 mm (5.9 in) each month. Despite the wet season, sunshine remains abundant, peaking in May with 281 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Sefwi Wiawso climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental conditions of Western North, Ghana, reveal a complex yet coherent interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. With temperatures exhibiting distinct seasonal variations and a marked increase in rainfall during the rainy season, the region's climate significantly influences agricultural practices and local livelihoods. High UV indexes and stable daylight durations further underscore the importance of sun safety and optimal planning for outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic factors not only informs effective resource management but also enhances preparedness for the challenges and opportunities presented by seasonal changes, ultimately supporting the sustainability and resilience of the local communities.