Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sikasso, Mali, exhibits a tropical savanna climate categorized under the Koppen-Geiger climate classes Aw and BSh. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, with a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) occurring in January. The average yearly temperature stands at a warm 28°C (83°F), peaking notably in May, where temperatures can soar to a scorching 44°C (111°F). This distinctive climate profile underscores the challenges and adaptations of local ecosystems and communities in response to seasonal extremes.
In Sikasso, Mali, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression throughout the year. Starting in January, the region experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums around 13°C (55°F) and averages of 26°C (78°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May with maximums reaching 44°C (111°F). The transition into the wet season during June and July sees a slight decrease in maximum temperatures, yet the averages remain warm, hovering around 29°C (84°F) and 27°C (80°F), respectively. By August and September, temperatures stabilize, with averages around 26°C (79°F). The cooler months return in late autumn, with temperatures again reflecting the cycle as the region experiences minimums between 14°C (58°F) and 22°C (71°F). Overall, the climate exhibits a clear warm season punctuated by a brief respite during the cooler months, showcasing the tropical savanna characteristics of the area.
Kolondieba experiences a minimum temperature of 13°C (56°F) in January and peaks at 41°C (106°F) in April, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Kolondieba. Similarly, Sikasso has a slightly warmer January minimum of 14°C (58°F) and shares the same maximum of 41°C (106°F) in April, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Sikasso. Koutiala, on the other hand, starts at a minimum of 13°C (55°F) in January and reaches its highest temperature of 43°C (111°F) in May, according to the monthly temperatures in Koutiala.
Sikasso, Mali, is characterized by a distinct wet and dry season, with minimal precipitation from January to April. During these months, rainfall is scarce, starting with 0 mm in January and gradually increasing to 20 mm (0.8 in) in April as the region transitions toward the rainy season. This period features few rainfall days, with only three days of rain in April, indicating a predominantly dry climate that supports agricultural practices reliant on seasonal water availability.
As the wet season establishes itself from May through September, Sikasso experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, peaking in July and August with 209 mm (8.2 in) and 259 mm (10.2 in) of rainfall, respectively. This period is marked by frequent rain, with 23 days in July and 25 days in August recording rainfall, providing crucial moisture for both local agriculture and ecosystems. Following this peak, precipitation begins to decline sharply in October, where 76 mm (3.0 in) is recorded, leading to another dry spell in November and December, which further emphasizes the region's fluctuating rainfall patterns.
In Sikasso, Mali, sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight peaking as the region transitions from winter to summer. January begins the year with 266 hours of bright daylight, and this number steadily increases month by month, reaching a maximum of 340 hours in May. This trend illustrates the region's gradual warming as sunnier days replace the cooler, shorter days of winter. Noteworthy is the consistent high level of sunshine during the spring months, particularly in March and April, where the average sunshine hovers around 323 hours and 321 hours, respectively, providing ample daylight for agriculture and daily life.
As summer approaches, the sunshine hours remain robust, although a slight decline occurs in July with 316 hours, likely due to increased cloud cover associated with the rainy season. This decrease continues into August as sunshine drops to 278 hours, marking the period of heaviest rainfall. Following this, September sees a rebound to 293 hours of sunlight, and October returns to the earlier high levels with 321 hours. The year concludes with consistent sunshine in November and December, where average hours range from 318 to 326. Overall, Sikasso experiences a rich tapestry of sunlight, with a notable peak during the warm months, reinforcing its importance for local ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
The UV Index in Sikasso, Mali, reflects a consistently high risk of solar exposure throughout the year, predominantly falling within the "extreme" category. From January through March, the UV Index is rated at 11, indicating an intense level of ultraviolet radiation that can lead to skin damage after just 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. As spring progresses into April and May, the UV Index rises slightly to 13, maintaining the extreme classification and reinforcing the necessity for protective measures against sunburn. This trend persists into June, where the UV Index remains at 13, emphasizing the importance of sun safety during these months.
The peak UV levels occur during the summer months of July, August, and September, reaching a maximum of 14, which is categorized as extreme. Even with an exposure limit of just 10 minutes, the risk of skin damage remains remarkably high. As the year transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline; however, October still presents a notable 12, before tapering to 10 in November and December, categorized as “very high” with an extended burn time of 15 minutes. This overview highlights the persistent risk of UV exposure in Sikasso and underlines the importance of sun protection strategies year-round, particularly during the peak months.
UV Risk Categories
In Sikasso, Mali, daylight duration exhibits a stable pattern characterized by consistent hours throughout the year. January and February both provide approximately 11 hours of daylight, allowing for ample light during the cooler months. As spring arrives in March, the day length increases slightly to 12 hours, a trend that continues until the summer months. From April through September, Sikasso enjoys this uniform 12-hour daylight duration, maximizing the available sunlight for agricultural activities and daily life, while providing residents with a balanced exposure to natural light.
As summer wanes into fall, daylight duration shifts back to 11 hours in October, reflecting a gradual return to the shorter days typical of winter. This transition continues into November and December, where daylight remains consistent at 11 hours. The relatively steady daylight duration throughout the year indicates that Sikasso experiences minimal seasonal fluctuation compared to many other regions, making it conducive for year-round agricultural practice and outdoor activities, while also fostering a sense of constant rhythm in daily life.
Bougouni, Mali, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in April and March. The rainy season occurs between June and September, with peak precipitation in August at 265 mm (10.4 in). Despite the rainfall, Bougouni enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, with May receiving the most at 341 hours. For more details, visit Bougouni climate.
Kadiolo, Mali experiences a primarily hot and dry climate, with temperatures peaking in April at a maximum of 41°C (106°F) before entering a rainy season that lasts from June to September. During this period, rainfall significantly increases, with July and August receiving the highest precipitation of 232 mm (9.1 in) and 255 mm (10.0 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the months of May and March seeing the most hours of sunlight, at 338 and 321 hours, respectively. Overall, from October to February, temperatures are more moderate, with minimal precipitation and considerable sunshine. For more details, visit the Kadiolo climate.
Kolondieba, Mali experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. The hottest months are March to May, where temperatures can peak at 41°C (106°F), while the cooler period is from November to February with minima around 13°C (56°F). Rainfall is concentrated from June to September, peaking in August with 299 mm (11.8 in), leading to a distinct wet season. Despite the rain, Kolondieba enjoys ample sunshine, averaging over 300 hours per month from January to November. For more details, visit Kolondieba climate.
Koutiala, Mali, experiences a hot and dry climate, with temperatures peaking in March and April, often reaching up to 43°C (109°F). The rainy season occurs mainly from June to September, with July and August receiving the highest rainfall, measuring 186 mm and 241 mm, respectively. Despite the moisture, sunshine is abundant throughout the year, particularly in May when it boasts 341 hours of sunlight. January and December are the driest months, with minimal precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Koutiala climate.
Leleni, Mali experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures and variable precipitation. January marks the coolest month with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 39°C, while May and June see peak warmth, reaching up to 44°C. The rainy season occurs primarily from June to August, with August being the wettest month, recording approximately 239 mm of rain. Despite the rainfall, Leleni enjoys plentiful sunshine throughout the year, with May boasting the highest at 341 hours. For more detailed information, visit Leleni climate.
Ntossoni, Mali experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet season. From March to September, temperatures soar, with April and May reaching maximums of 43°C (110°F). The rainy season peaks in July and August, bringing significant rainfall, with July averaging 202 mm (8.0 in) and August 249 mm (9.8 in). Despite the rains, the region enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, particularly in May, which boasts around 341 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Ntossoni climate.
Sikasso, Mali experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a distinct wet season. The hottest months are typically April and May, with average temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and maximums of 41°C (106°F). The rainy season principally spans from June to September, where July and August see the highest precipitation, totaling 249 mm (9.8 in) and 262 mm (10.3 in), respectively. Despite the heavy rainfall during these months, Sikasso enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, peaking in May with 342 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Sikasso climate.
The climate in Yanfolila, Mali, is characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. From March to October, temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F), peaking in April with maximums reaching 42°C (107°F). The rainy season spans June to September, with August recording the highest rainfall of 241 mm (9.5 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with the most sunlight in May at 340 hours. For more detailed information, visit Yanfolila climate.
The climate in Yorosso, Mali, features a hot and dry season from January to May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 43°C (109°F) in April and May. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August with approximately 277 mm (10.9 in) of precipitation. Despite the rainfall, temperatures remain warm, averaging around 26–31°C (78–89°F) during these months. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, with May typically experiencing the highest at 339 hours. For more details, visit Yorosso climate.
In conclusion, Sikasso, Mali, presents a unique climate profile characterized by distinct seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region's tropical savanna climate promotes warm temperatures with peaks in the summer, while its rainy season enriches the landscape with vital moisture. The consistently high UV index underscores the need for sun protection, particularly during the peak months. Additionally, daylight duration remains remarkably stable at 11 to 12 hours throughout the year, facilitating a balanced environment for both agriculture and daily activities. Together, these climatic factors not only shape the ecosystem and agricultural practices but also define the daily lives of the residents, emphasizing the importance of understanding local climatic trends for effective planning and adaptation.