Last updated: January 18, 2025
Nimba, Liberia, exhibits a tropical savanna climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Aw. This climate type is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with temperatures displaying a notable range. The minimum temperature in January dips to a chilly 13°C (56°F), while the average temperature hovers around a comforting 25°C (78°F) year-round. Peaks are observed in February, where the mercury can rise to an impressive maximum of 38°C (100°F), highlighting the region's climatic extremes. Understanding these temperature variations is crucial for comprehending the broader ecological and socio-economic dynamics influencing Nimba.
Temperature patterns in Nimba, Liberia, reveal a distinctive seasonal rhythm characterized by a warm climate with slight variations throughout the year. The year begins with January showcasing cooler temperatures, where minimums drop to 13°C (56°F) but quickly transition into warmer months. February marks the peak warmth, reaching maximums of 38°C (100°F), before stabilizing around 27°C (81°F) during March and April. As the wet season approaches in May and June, temperatures slightly decline, with maximums hovering between 33°C (92°F) and 34°C (94°F). The heart of the rainy season from July to September sees further cooling, with averages remaining steady at around 24°C (75°F), while minimums rise modestly. As December approaches, the temperatures begin to drop again, wrapping up the year with averages around 25°C (78°F), showcasing a remarkable interplay between the dry and wet seasons within Nimba's tropical climate.
In the region of Nimba, Liberia, temperatures vary slightly between the towns of Buutuo, Ganta, and New Yekepa during the early months of the year. Buutuo experiences a minimum of 16°C (60°F) in January and reaches a maximum of 37°C (100°F) in February; for more details, visit monthly temperatures in Buutuo. Ganta is slightly cooler with a January minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in February, as detailed in monthly temperatures in Ganta. New Yekepa records the lowest minimum at 13°C (56°F) in January, with a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in February, which can be explored further at monthly temperatures in New Yekepa.
In Nimba, Liberia, precipitation follows a pronounced seasonal pattern, predominantly influenced by the tropical monsoon climate. The year begins relatively dry, with January receiving only 19 mm (0.7 inches) of rainfall over 3 days. As early as February, however, precipitation begins to climb significantly, reaching 59 mm (2.3 inches) in 9 days. This upward trend culminates between May and September, where the region experiences its peak rainfall, with September recording a staggering 360 mm (14.2 inches) over 28 days, illustrating the intensity of the wet season.
Throughout the wet months, especially from June to August, rainfall is abundant, averaging above 240 mm (9.5 inches) and often occurring on nearly every day of the month. This consistent precipitation supports the lush vegetation characteristic of the region but poses challenges such as soil erosion and flooding. As the year transitions back to drier conditions in October and November, precipitation decreases significantly to 193 mm (7.6 inches) and 103 mm (4.1 inches), respectively, illustrating a clear contrast to the preceding months. By December, rainfall drops to 29 mm (1.1 inches), completing the cycle and paving the way for a drier January.
In Nimba, Liberia, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern that reflects the region's tropical climate. The year begins with a robust amount of sunshine in January, providing 250 hours of bright days, which steadily increases through February and March, peaking in May with 270 hours. As the rainy season approaches, however, June sees a slight decline to 249 hours, indicating a transition towards more overcast conditions. The summer months of July and August experience the least sunshine, with only 228 hours and 208 hours, respectively, as cloud cover and precipitation dominate the weather.
Interestingly, the latter part of the year witnesses a resurgence in sunshine with November and December recording 280 hours and an impressive 296 hours, respectively. This late-year sunshine revival not only signals the end of the rainy season but also highlights the stark contrast between the wet and dry periods. Overall, the clear upswing in sunshine hours from December through May emphasizes the vital role sunlight plays in shaping the region's climate and can significantly influence local agricultural practices and the well-being of its inhabitants.
In Nimba, Liberia, the UV Index indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure throughout the year, predominantly classified within the extreme exposure category. January kicks off with a UV Index of 11 and maintains high values of 12 in February and March. As the year progresses into April, the UV Index reaches its peak at 14, reflecting increased solar intensity and resulting in a consistent burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of extreme UV levels persists through much of the year, with values remaining at or near 13 during the humid months of May to September, serving as a stark reminder of the need for adequate sun protection.
As the year winds down, the UV Index shows a slight decline in November to 11 and further drops to 10 in December, which is categorized as very high. However, even in December, the burn time increases to 15 minutes, illustrating that, despite lower levels, sun damage remains a concern. This data underscores the importance of consistent sun safety measures for individuals living in or visiting Nimba, ensuring protection against harmful UV rays, particularly during the peak months that coincide with the region's dry season.
UV Risk Categories
In Nimba, Liberia, daylight duration remains fairly consistent throughout the year, reflecting the region's equatorial location. Both January and February feature 11 hours of daylight, providing ample time for daily activities. As the transition into March occurs, an increase to 12 hours of daylight marks the onset of a stable pattern that continues unabated through much of the year. This consistent fish for daylight lasts from March to September, enabling both residents and wildlife to engage in activities that require natural light.
However, as the year progresses into October, daylight duration again recedes to 11 hours, a trend that persists through November and December. This moderate fluctuation emphasizes the predictability of Nimba's daylight hours, which generally fall between 11 and 12 hours. Such stability in daylight not only influences the region's agricultural practices but also underscores the integral role sunlight plays in shaping the daily routines and cultural practices of its inhabitants throughout the year.
Buutuo, Liberia experiences a tropical climate marked by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January boasts a mild start with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 36°C, while February sees the highest maximum at 37°C. The rainy season peaks between May and September, with September receiving the most precipitation at 315 mm. Despite the rainfall, sunshine is abundant, especially in the final months of the year, with December enjoying 288 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Buutuo climate.
Ganta, Liberia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to peaks of 27°C (81°F) to 27°C (82°F) from January to May, with maximum temperatures occasionally reaching 38°C (100°F) in February. Rainfall is heaviest from May to September, with September recording the highest precipitation at 355 mm (14.0 in). Despite the rainfall, Ganta benefits from ample sunshine, particularly in December with 298 hours. For more details, visit Ganta climate.
The climate in New Yekepa, Liberia, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January sees average temperatures around 25°C (78°F) with low rainfall, while the months from May to September experience the highest precipitation, peaking in September at 374 mm (14.7 in). Temperature highs reach up to 37°C (99°F) in February and March, but generally range from 23°C (74°F) to 27°C (81°F) during the rainy season. Despite the heavy rains, the area enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly from November to February, making it a vibrant and lush environment. For more detailed information, visit New Yekepa climate.
Sanniquellie, Liberia experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to October. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in the cooler months to around 27°C (81°F) during the warmer months. Precipitation peaks in September with 396 mm (15.6 in) of rain, while the sunniest months are November and December with 269 and 287 hours of sunshine, respectively. This climate creates lush landscapes and supports diverse ecosystems in the region. For more detailed information, visit Sanniquellie climate.
In conclusion, Nimba, Liberia, presents a unique climatic tapestry characterized by distinct temperature patterns, significant precipitation, high UV exposure, and consistent daylight duration. The region's climate facilitates a rich ecosystem and vibrant agricultural activities, while the pronounced wet and dry seasons emphasize the importance of sun safety due to extreme UV Index levels, especially during the months of intense solar radiation. Additionally, the steady daylight hours throughout the year contribute to a rhythm of life that influences local customs and practices. Understanding these climatic patterns not only aids in effective environmental management but also supports the well-being and livelihood of the communities that call Nimba home.