Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Tombali, Guinea-Bissau, is classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate characterized by a distinct dry season. Throughout the year, temperatures showcase a significant range, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) recorded in January, escalating to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April. The average annual temperature hovers around 27°C (81°F), highlighting the region's warm and dynamic weather patterns that influence its ecological and agricultural landscapes.
Tombali, Guinea-Bissau experiences a distinct temperature pattern throughout the year, with notable seasonal variations. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums drop to 16°C (61°F) and average highs reach 38°C (101°F), setting the stage for a gradual increase in warmth. By March and April, temperatures peak, with maximums consistently reaching 41°C (106°F), while average temperatures remain stable around 28°C (83°F). As the rainy season approaches in May, the heat slightly subdues, yet averages still hover near 29°C (84°F). The subsequent months from June to August see a decline in maximum temperatures, coinciding with increased humidity, as average highs settle around the low 30s°C (low 90s°F). As the year progresses toward December, temperatures begin to cool again, showcasing a cyclical pattern that underscores the tropical savanna climate of the region.
Catio experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January and a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in April, while Quebo sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) in January, soaring to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April. For more detailed temperature insights, visit monthly temperatures in Catio and monthly temperatures in Quebo.
Tombali, Guinea-Bissau exhibits a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, characterized primarily by a distinct dry season followed by an intense rainy season. From January to April, the region experiences virtually no rainfall, maintaining a dry spell with 0 mm (0.0 in) recorded each month. In May, the onset of the rainy season begins with a modest 11 mm (0.4 in), heralding a significant shift as the following months witness substantial increases in precipitation.
The peak of the wet season occurs in July, with an extraordinary 613 mm (24.1 in) of rainfall over 29 days, establishing it as the rainiest month. Following closely are August and September, which also see significant precipitation, with 573 mm (22.6 in) and 412 mm (16.2 in), respectively. This heavy rainfall tapers off in October and November, with 194 mm (7.6 in) and 49 mm (1.9 in), respectively, before returning to a dry state in December. Overall, the climate of Tombali reflects a stark contrast between its parched months and the deluge characteristic of the rainy season.
In Tombali, Guinea-Bissau, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with an observable increase in daylight hours as the year progresses from winter to summer. Starting in January with 259 hours of sunshine, the region enjoys a gradual rise in sunlight, peaking in March at 335 hours, signaling the arrival of warmer and longer days. As temperatures rise leading into the dry season, April and May maintain impressive totals of 330 and 338 hours, respectively, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agriculture.
However, as the rainy season begins in June, the amount of sunshine declines, recording 285 hours. This trend continues through July and August, when sunlight drops to 265 and 233 hours, respectively, reflecting the heavy cloud cover often associated with rainfall. As the year progresses into the months of September and October, sunshine slightly rebounds, yielding 256 and 299 hours of sunlight. By November and December, the sun reasserts its presence with 307 and 322 hours, respectively, signaling a return to brighter conditions as the dry season approaches once again. Overall, the climate in Tombali showcases an evident relationship between sunshine duration and seasonal changes, integral to both the natural environment and local livelihoods.
Tombali, Guinea-Bissau experiences a notably high UV Index, which has significant implications for sun exposure and health throughout the year. The UV Index starts at 10 in January and February, categorized as very high, meaning that unprotected skin can begin to burn in as little as 15 minutes. As the months progress into March, the UV Index escalates to a peak of 12, classified as extreme, indicating a heightened risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This extreme category persists through June, emphasizing the need for caution and protective measures during this period.
The intensity of UV radiation reaches its zenith in July and August, with the UV Index climbing to 13 and 14, both falling under the extreme exposure category, also allowing only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. Following this period, the UV Index remains elevated into the fall, with 12 noted in October before creeping down to 10 in November and 9 in December, although still classified as very high. This pattern underscores the importance of sun safety measures in Tombali, making protective actions essential during both the dry and wet seasons to mitigate the potential risks associated with high levels of UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Tombali, Guinea-Bissau, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that reflect seasonal changes. January and February each offer around 11 hours of daylight, providing ample light for daily activities. As the transition into spring occurs, daylight increases slightly to 12 hours in March and remains consistent through April, May, June, July, August, and September. This steady span of longer days not only enhances outdoor living and agricultural productivity but also promotes a vibrant ecosystem during the warmer months.
As the year progresses into the fall, daylight begins to shorten again, returning to 11 hours in October, continuing through November and December. This reduction in daylight may coincide with the onset of the dry season, bringing changes to both environmental conditions and human activities in the region. Overall, the moderate variation in daylight duration throughout the year reflects the tropical climate of Tombali, influencing the rhythm of life and the natural environment in this vibrant part of Guinea-Bissau.
Catio, Guinea-Bissau experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimal 18°C (65°F) in January to a peak of 38°C (101°F) in March and April. Rainfall is sparse from January to April, followed by a significant increase during the rainy season from June to September, with July recording over 590 mm (23.2 in). The annual sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in March with 335 hours, making Catio a bright and warm location. For more detailed information, visit Catio climate.
Quebo, Guinea-Bissau experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year and significant seasonal rainfall. The hottest months are March and April, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 41°C (106°F). The wet season peaks in July and August, where rainfall can exceed 600 mm (23.6 in), while January to April sees little to no precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in March (335 hours) and May (338 hours). For more details, visit Quebo climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Tombali, Guinea-Bissau is marked by distinct seasonal patterns that significantly affect temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a pronounced dry season characterized by high temperatures and ample sunlight, transitioning into a rainy season that brings substantial precipitation and shorter daylight hours. The high UV index during certain months underscores the need for proactive sun protection measures. As these climatic factors interact, they shape not only the natural landscape of Tombali but also the livelihoods and activities of its inhabitants, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to these climatic characteristics for sustainable living in the region.