Dakar Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Dakar, Senegal, is characterized by a BSh climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system, highlighting its distinct semi-arid conditions. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) in February, contributing to its mild winter climate. As the seasons progress, average temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F), providing a comfortable environment for residents and visitors alike. The warmest month peaks at 32°C (89°F) in November, underscoring the region's hot and dry characteristics during much of the year. This climatic profile not only influences local weather patterns but also plays a crucial role in the region's ecology and socio-economic activities.

Dakar temperature by month

Dakar, Senegal, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, marked by a mild winter and progressively warmer conditions leading into summer. In the cooler months from January to March, temperatures see a gradual decline, with average highs around 27°C (81°F) and lows dipping to 17°C (63°F) in February. As spring approaches, April and May maintain stable averages of 20-21°C (68-70°F), gradually warming up. The summer season, from June to September, brings a noticeable increase in temperatures, highlighted by average highs peaking at 30°C (86°F) in September, ensuring a warm and humid climate. This trend culminates in October and November, where temperatures rise further, reaching a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in November, before cooling down again in December. Overall, the year in Dakar is characterized by mild winters and a hot, dry summer, shaping both local weather experiences and lifestyle.

Monthly Temperatures in Dakar, Senegal

The chart illustrates Dakar's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec727069697075788082827975
Data source: Dakar temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

In Dakar, Pikine, and Mermoz Boabab, the climate features a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) in February and peaks at 32°C (89°F) in November, offering a warm climate throughout the year. For more detailed monthly temperatures, visit the links: monthly temperatures in Dakar, monthly temperatures in Pikine, and monthly temperatures in Mermoz Boabab.

Precipitation Patterns in Dakar

Dakar, Senegal, experiences a pronounced dry season, particularly from January to May, during which no precipitation is recorded. This extended period of dryness significantly influences the region's arid climate, contributing to its semi-desert conditions. The beginning of the rainy season is marked by minimal rainfall in June, with just 3 mm (0.1 in) over a couple of days, but it is during July and August that Dakar receives the bulk of its annual precipitation. These months account for the majority of rainfall, with August alone delivering approximately 131 mm (5.2 in) spread over 11 days, reinforcing the significance of this period for local ecosystems and agriculture.

As the rainy season transitions into early autumn, September continues to see substantial rainfall with around 103 mm (4.1 in), although the frequency of rainy days starts to decline. October marks a gradual tapering off with 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain over just 2 days, before returning to the dry conditions typical of November and December, which see no recorded precipitation. This seasonal pattern of rainfall underscores the importance of the wet months in contrast to the arid conditions that dominate the rest of the year, impacting the socio-economic activities in Dakar, particularly agriculture and water resource management.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Dakar, Senegal

The average monthly precipitation in Dakar, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec000003171311032000
Data source: Dakar precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Dakar

Dakar, Senegal, showcases a remarkable seasonal pattern in sunshine duration, with a steady increase from the colder months to peak during late spring and early summer. Starting from January, the year begins with an impressive 249 hours of sunshine, which climbs to 353 hours in May, marking the transition into the sunniest period. Both March and April see consistent sunshine levels, maintaining 337 hours. This rising trend underscores the region's shift toward warmer and more radiant months, making spring a particularly vibrant time in Dakar, perfect for outdoor activities.

As summer arrives, sunshine remains abundant, with July and August recording 335 and 317 hours, respectively. Although there is a slight decrease during these months, the hours are still significantly high. Following August, sunshine durations begin to taper off, but remain relatively robust into the fall, with October bringing 322 hours. An interesting observation is the consistency in sunshine throughout the latter months, as November and December still present 300 and 302 hours, respectively. This abundant solar exposure not only enhances the quality of life but also plays a critical role in supporting the local economy, particularly in tourism and agriculture.

Monthly Sunshine in Dakar, Senegal

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Dakar receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec249h282h337h337h353h332h335h317h304h322h300h302h
Data source: Dakar sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Dakar UV Index Trends

In Dakar, Senegal, the UV Index presents a clear indication of the region's intense sun exposure, particularly from January through October. The year begins with a very high UV Index of 9 in January, which increases to a peak of 13 during the summer months of July through September, categorized as extremely high. This elevated UV radiation means that individuals in Dakar should exercise caution during midday hours, with burn times as short as 10 minutes during the peak months, emphasizing the need for proper sun protection measures. February also sees a rise in UV levels, reaching 10, while March and April introduce extreme levels at 12 and 13, respectively.

As the year progresses towards the end, the UV Index slightly declines but remains notably high. In October, it falls to 11, before tapering back to 10 in November and returning to 9 by December, signaling the onset of the cooler months. Despite this reduction, the sunlight remains potent, with recommended burn times still suggesting vigilance since the risk of skin damage remains significant throughout the year. Overall, Dakar's UV patterns not only underscore the importance of sun safety awareness but also influence outdoor lifestyles, tourism, and health recommendations in the region.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Dakar, Senegal

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Dakar. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9101213121213131311109
Data source: Dakar UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Dakar

Dakar, Senegal, experiences relatively consistent daylight duration throughout the year, with an impressive average that ranges from 11 hours in the winter months to a stable 12 hours during the late spring and summer seasons. January and February see 11 hours of daylight, which extends to 12 hours starting in March and continues through the mid-year months of April to September. This stability in daylight hours creates a predictable rhythm for daily activities, allowing residents and tourists ample time to enjoy outdoor pursuits and engage in social gatherings under the sun.

As the year progresses towards autumn, daylight duration begins to decrease once again, dropping back to 11 hours in October and remaining consistent through November and December. This gradual shift signifies the seasonal transition and is typical of tropical regions near the equator, where variations in daylight can be minimal compared to other parts of the world. The resulting daylight pattern not only enhances the quality of life in Dakar but also influences agricultural practices and lifestyle, as the steady availability of sunlight supports various economic and social activities.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Dakar, Senegal

This chart shows the total daylight hours Dakar receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec681h699h722h747h768h778h772h754h731h706h685h675h
Data source: Dakar daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Dakar's Popular Destinations

Dakar, Senegal experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. From January to April, temperatures range between 18°C and 27°C (64°F to 81°F) with minimal precipitation. The rainy season peaks from July to September, featuring higher temperatures, reaching up to 32°C (89°F) in November. Sunshine is abundant, especially between February and May, averaging over 300 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Dakar climate.

Mermoz Boabab, Senegal experiences a warm climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in February to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in November, with the hottest months of July through October seeing highs of 28-31°C (82-89°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, but a significant increase occurs from June to September, particularly in August with 131 mm (5.2 in). Sunshine is abundant year-round, peaking in May with 353 hours. For detailed climate insights, visit Mermoz Boabab climate.

N'diareme limamoulaye, Senegal, experiences a warm climate characterized by minimal rainfall in the first half of the year, with precipitation mostly occurring from June to September, peaking in August. Temperatures vary from mild 18°C (64°F) in January to hotter conditions reaching up to 32°C (89°F) in November. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with hours ranging from 249 in January to 353 in May, creating a generally bright and sunny atmosphere. For more detailed weather information, visit N'diareme limamoulaye climate.

The climate in Pikine, Senegal, features warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 20°C (68°F) in March and April to 28°C (82°F) in October. Rainfall is scarce from January to May, but increases significantly in the summer months, peaking at 131 mm (5.2 in) in August. Sunshine is abundant, with March and April boasting over 337 hours each. The majority of precipitation occurs in July and August, making these the wettest months. For more details, visit Pikine climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dakar, Senegal, showcases a unique climatic profile characterized by its distinctive seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. With warm, sunny days predominating throughout the year and a pronounced dry season punctuated by a brief, intense rainy period, the region offers a rich environment for both residents and visitors. The consistently high UV Index highlights the importance of sun protection all year round, especially during the summer months, while the stable daylight duration fosters a vibrant lifestyle. Collectively, these climatic features not only shape daily life and cultural practices in Dakar but also play a crucial role in the region's ecological dynamics and economic activities, ensuring that this vibrant city remains a captivating destination year-round.

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