Last updated: January 18, 2025
Bong, Liberia, exemplifies a tropical monsoon climate classified under the Koppen-Geiger system as Am. Characterized by distinct temperature variances, the region experiences a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January, rising to an average of 26°C (79°F) annually, and peaking at a sweltering 38°C (101°F) in March. These climatic conditions not only shape the ecological landscape but also influence the socio-economic activities of the local population, underscoring the intricate relationship between weather patterns and daily life in Bong.
In Bong, Liberia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The year begins with January's cooler temperatures, marked by a minimum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 26°C (80°F), before gradually warming up as the months progress. By March, temperatures reach their peak, with highs soaring to 38°C (101°F), indicating the onset of the hot season. As the rainy season approaches, from April through July, temperatures remain relatively stable, fluctuating between 21°C (71°F) and 27°C (81°F) during the day, with maximums between 31°C (89°F) and 35°C (96°F). However, a slight drop in temperatures occurs in July and August as the rains intensify, leading to cooler averages of 24°C (76°F). The latter part of the year, particularly from September to December, witnesses a gradual return to warmer conditions, with temperatures stabilizing around 25-26°C (77-79°F) on average, and maximums ranging from 33°C (91°F) to 34°C (94°F), rounding out a dynamic annual temperature cycle in this tropical climate.
Gbarnga experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in March. For detailed monthly temperatures in Gbarnga, refer to the following link: monthly temperatures in Gbarnga.
Bong, Liberia, experiences a pronounced wet season characterized by its significant precipitation patterns, particularly from March through September. In January, the rains are minimal, with only 24 mm (1.0 in) falling over approximately 7 days. This quickly escalates in February to 56 mm (2.2 in), transitioning into the peak rainfall months of March and April, where precipitation reaches 118 mm (4.7 in) and 129 mm (5.1 in), respectively. May marks the beginning of the heaviest rainfall, culminating in 191 mm (7.5 in), as the region braces for the torrential rains that define the mid-year months.
The intensity of the rains peaks dramatically in September, where an astonishing 482 mm (19.0 in) is recorded over 28 days, showcasing the extreme wet conditions typically associated with this period. Following September, rainfall decreases but remains substantial in October with 222 mm (8.7 in), before tapering off to 83 mm (3.3 in) in November and 39 mm (1.6 in) in December. This decline is mirrored in the number of rainy days, as the total days of precipitation transitions from a high of 28 days in the core rainy months of June and July to only 10 days in December, highlighting the seasonal rhythms of precipitation in Bong.
In Bong, Liberia, the duration of sunshine exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, beginning with a modest 240 hours in January and gradually increasing as the year progresses. February sees a slight rise to 261 hours, while March maintains a healthy allocation of 247 hours of sunlight. April and May continue this trend with 234 hours and 247 hours, respectively, providing ample daylight as the dry season approaches. Notably, the onset of the rainy season in June brings a peak of 234 hours, indicating that even during this wetter period, Bong benefits from significant sunshine, with hours only experiencing a slight dip.
As the year heads towards its conclusion, sunshine duration fluctuates again, particularly during the latter half of the year. July and August witness a decrease, with 214 hours and 198 hours of sunlight, respectively, reflecting the rainy season's full effect. However, the sun begins to shine more brightly in September, climbing back to 209 hours. A notable uptrend is observed in the final quarter, as October jumps to 246 hours, November rises to 262 hours, and December culminates in the highest figure of 281 hours for the year. This exceptional collection of sunlight in the last months signals a transition to drier conditions, showcasing Bong's diverse climatic influences throughout the year.
Bong, Liberia, experiences a consistent and notably high UV Index throughout the year, reflecting the region’s proximity to the equator and the intensity of solar radiation. From January to March, the UV Index remains extremely high, with values of 11 to 12, indicating an "extreme" exposure category where unprotected skin can begin to burn in just 10 minutes. This trend continues into April and May, where the UV Index peaks at 13 while still maintaining the same burn time, highlighting the imperative for individuals to adopt protective measures, especially during outdoor activities.
As the rainy season approaches, the UV Index fluctuates slightly but generally remains in the extreme range. From June to August, the Index stabilizes at 12 to 13, again with a burn time of 10 minutes, demonstrating little respite from the powerful sun. The trend continues into September and October before tapering off in November to 11, followed by a decrease to 10 in December, which is classified as “very high” with a recommended burn time of 15 minutes. This annual UV Index pattern underscores the necessity for vigilance against skin damage, particularly during the hottest months, necessitating the consistent application of sunscreen and protective clothing to mitigate health risks.
UV Risk Categories
In Bong, Liberia, daylight duration exhibits remarkable stability throughout the year, typically varying between 11 and 12 hours per day, a characteristic influenced by its equatorial location. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in January and February, providing a consistent rhythm for daily life. As the sun reaches its zenith, March marks a shift, introducing an increase to 12 hours of daylight that persists through the dry months of April, May, and the onset of the rainy season in June. This consistent availability of daylight plays a critical role in agricultural practices and daily activities in the region.
As the rainy season approaches its climax during the latter half of the year, daylight duration remains stable at 12 hours from July through September, reinforcing the notion that Bong enjoys a predictable daylight pattern, irrespective of climatic changes. However, as the year transitions towards the end, daylight decreases once again to 11 hours in October and remains consistent through November and December. This stability in daylight hours, coupled with the region's climatic factors, underscores the importance of agriculture and community activities that rely on optimal lighting conditions year-round.
Gbarnga, Liberia, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January sees average temperatures around 26°C (80°F) with minimal precipitation, while the wettest months from June to September witness heavy rainfall, peaking in September at 482 mm (19.0 in). Average temperatures tend to remain between 24°C (76°F) and 27°C (81°F, with maximums reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in March. Sunshine varies, with December offering the most hours at 281, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Gbarnga climate.
In conclusion, Bong, Liberia, embodies a distinctive climatic profile characterized by its tropical monsoon climate, significant precipitation fluctuations, high UV Index, consistent sunshine duration, and stable daylight hours. The region's temperature patterns reveal a clear transition between wet and dry seasons, while the intensity of rainfall peaks dramatically during the mid-year months. Coupled with elevated UV levels throughout the year, residents must prioritize sun protection to mitigate health risks. Additionally, the reliable daylight duration facilitates agricultural productivity and daily life, allowing inhabitants to adapt practices to the natural rhythms of the environment. Overall, understanding these climatic trends is crucial for effective planning and sustainable development in Bong.