Last updated: January 18, 2025
Niamey, the capital city of Niger, is characterized by a hot semi-arid climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BSh. The region experiences a significant temperature range, with minimums dropping to 13°C (56°F) in January and soaring to maximums of 44°C (112°F) in May. The average temperature throughout the year maintains a balmy 30°C (86°F), highlighting a climate that is both challenging and vibrant, significantly influenced by the seasonal variations and intense heat of the Sahel.
In Niamey, Niger, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal variations, marked by a gradual increase in heat from January to May. The year begins with relatively cooler temperatures, where January sees minimums around 13°C (56°F) and average highs of 38°C (100°F). As February and March approach, both minimums and averages steadily rise, with March hitting a peak maximum of 42°C (108°F). April and May experience the highest temperatures of the year, with averages reaching 35°C (95°F) and maximums peaking at 44°C (112°F). The onset of the rainy season in June brings a slight reprieve, as temperatures decrease, with average highs dropping to 33°C (91°F) and minimums around 24°C (76°F). Throughout the summer months, July and August maintain cooler averages, hovering around 30°C (86°F) and 28°C (83°F) respectively, before the temperatures gradually rise again in the fall. By September through December, temperatures stabilize, reflecting a cooling trend, with averages ranging from 29°C (85°F) in September to around 25°C (78°F) in December, showcasing a full but warm cycle through the seasons.
Niamey experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) in January and soaring to a maximum of 44°C (112°F) in May, highlighting the region's intense heat during the pre-summer months. For more detailed information, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Niamey.
Niamey, Niger, experiences a distinct wet and dry season, with minimal precipitation from January to March. During these months, the city receives virtually no rainfall, with January, February, and March recording 0 mm (0.0 in) of rain. A slight uptick in precipitation is observed in April, with only 1 mm (0.0 in), followed by May, which marks the beginnings of the rainy season with 8 mm (0.3 in). The rainfall starts to be more significant in June, and by July, the city averages 50 mm (2.0 in), indicating a notable shift toward the wet season.
August represents the peak of the rainy season in Niamey, bringing substantial precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in), experienced over approximately 16 days. September continues this trend with 53 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall, although the frequency of rainy days drops back to 6. As October arrives, precipitation decreases to 13 mm (0.5 in), and by November and December, the dry conditions return, with both months reporting 0 mm (0.0 in) of rainfall. Overall, the precipitation pattern highlights the stark contrast between the arid conditions of the dry season and the intense rains characteristic of the summer months.
In Niamey, Niger, the sunshine duration follows a clear seasonal pattern, showcasing a gradual increase from the cooler months of winter into the intensely sunny summer. Starting with 268 hours of sunshine in January, the hours steadily climb throughout the early months of the year, reaching a peak of 347 hours in May. This pre-summer period is characterized by increasingly longer days, making it a time of vibrant sunshine as the city prepares for the heat of summer. The consistent trend continues into June and July, where sunshine remains abundant, with 340 hours and 352 hours respectively, making these months particularly radiant.
As the year progresses toward fall, sunshine hours begin to taper slightly but remain relatively stable. August sees a minor decrease to 342 hours, followed by September, which maintains 328 hours. October and November show slight rebounds with 331 hours and 319 hours, respectively. Despite this seasonal variation, the overall trend indicates that Niamey enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine throughout the year, with the late spring and early summer months standing out as the sunniest periods, allowing for an abundance of outdoor activities and a vibrant local environment.
In Niamey, Niger, the UV Index reveals the striking intensity of solar radiation throughout the year, with values consistently indicating very high to extreme exposure levels. Starting in January with a UV Index of 10, the city transitions rapidly to higher levels, peaking at 13 in both March and July. This extreme classification denotes a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with burn times determined to be as little as 10 minutes during these peak months. Notably, February through June showcases sustained extreme levels, urging residents and visitors to take precautions against potentially harmful sun exposure.
As the year progresses into late fall, the UV Index experiences a slight decline but still remains substantial. Both November and December report a UV Index of 10 and 9, respectively, categorized again as very high, with extended burn times of 15 minutes. This downward trend reflects the changing sunlight and seasonal influences in Niamey, yet it serves as a reminder that even in the cooler months, protective measures are necessary to shield against the harmful effects of UV radiation. Overall, the data underscores the importance of sun safety year-round, particularly during the region's peak exposure months.
UV Risk Categories
In Niamey, Niger, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, characterized by approximately 11 to 12 hours of sunlight daily. Both January and February see a consistent 11 hours of daylight, providing a brief period of reduced sunlight as the year begins. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to extend, reaching 12 hours and maintaining this duration through the summer months of June and August. This consistency offers residents a reliable rhythm to their daily activities and cultural events, allowing for ample time to enjoy outdoor pursuits.
As the year transitions into fall, daylight duration begins to taper once more. From October to December, daylight returns to 11 hours, mirroring the conditions observed at the year's outset. This cyclical pattern of daylight not only guides local farming practices but also influences social routines and cultural traditions in Niamey. Overall, the stable daylight hours throughout the year reflect the city's geographical positioning, creating a predictable environment for both residents and visitors alike.
Niamey, Niger, experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. January sees average highs of 24°C (75°F), soaring to 44°C (111°F) in April and May, while July and August, the wettest months, experience lower highs around 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to March and increases from June to August, peaking in August with 137 mm (5.4 in). Sunshine is abundant, with over 300 hours each month, providing ample warm days. For more detailed information, visit Niamey climate.
In conclusion, Niamey, Niger, presents a climate marked by high temperatures, significant sunshine, and notable UV radiation year-round, underscoring the importance of sun safety and adaptation strategies. The precipitation patterns delineate a distinct rainy season that contrasts sharply with the arid winter months, while the consistent daylight duration ensures that residents experience ample opportunities for outdoor activities regardless of the season. Understanding these climatic characteristics not only enhances the quality of life for the inhabitants but also serves as vital information for tourists and researchers aiming to appreciate the unique environment of Niamey. As the city navigates challenges related to climate and weather, these insights contribute to ongoing discussions about sustainable living in a semi-arid context.