Last updated: April 14, 2025
Senegal's climate is characterized by striking contrasts, from sweltering temperatures to varying precipitation patterns. January in Saint-Louis sees a cool minimum of 12°C (55°F), while June in Matam can soar to a blistering 47°C (116°F). The annual rainfall varies significantly, with Kédougou experiencing a dry December with 0 mm of precipitation, contrasting sharply with Ziguinchor's lush August total of 418 mm (16.5 in). Humidity levels also fluctuate dramatically, reaching a low of 9% in March in Matam and peaking at a humid 88% in August in Tambacounda. This diversity creates a vibrant climate landscape, influencing both the environment and lifestyle across the region.
Senegal's diverse climate zones offer a fascinating tapestry of weather patterns that shape its ecosystems and lifestyles. Predominantly, the BSh (semi-arid) climate prevails in urban centers like Dakar, Diourbel, and Kaolack, characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. In contrast, regions such as Kaffrine exhibit a mix of BSh and Aw (tropical savanna) climates, while the southern areas, including Kolda and Ziguinchor, embrace the Aw climate, known for its lush vegetation and higher rainfall. The north reveals a drier landscape with BWh (desert) climates in Saint-Louis and parts of Matam, contributing to the region's striking climate contrasts and rich biodiversity. Each zone uniquely influences agriculture, ecology, and the cultural fabric of Senegal, making it a country of remarkable climatic variation.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Senegal experiences a striking temperature range throughout the year, showcasing both warm and scorching days. January starts cool, with minimums around 12°C (55°F) in Saint-Louis, peaking at a scorching 41°C (106°F) in Tambacounda. As the months progress into February and March, temperatures rise, reaching a maximum of 45°C (113°F) in Louga by the end of March. The trend continues in April and May, with maximum temperatures soaring to 46°C (115°F) and 47°C (116°F) in Tambacounda and Matam, respectively. The heat persists into June and July, while August brings slight respite with minimums around 21°C (70°F). The cooler months return in November and December, with temperatures dipping to 15°C (59°F) in Kolda. Overall, Senegal’s climate is characterized by sweltering heat, particularly in the interior regions, with a slight cooling as the year comes to a close.
In Senegal, precipitation patterns reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm characterized by significant variability across different regions. The dry season peaks in December when places like Kédougou may experience no rainfall at all, while the wet season sees striking contrasts, especially in August. This month marks a climactic shift, with Ziguinchor recording a staggering maximum of 418 mm (16.5 in), indicative of the intense rainfall that characterizes many regions. Meanwhile, Sédhiou exemplifies this trend, hosting up to 26 rainy days during August, highlighting a peak in precipitation frequency. In contrast, areas such as Thiès experience a notable absence of rain in June, illustrating the dry periods that punctuate the year. Overall, Senegal's precipitation trends underline the dynamic interaction between seasonal shifts and regional climate diversity.
Senegal experiences significant fluctuations in humidity throughout the year, with levels ranging from a minimum of 9% in March in Matam to a maximum of 88% in August in Tambacounda. This stark contrast highlights the country's distinct seasonal shifts, where the dry season brings low humidity levels, creating a stark environment, while the wet season envelops regions in a muggy atmosphere that can feel quite intense. As such, those visiting or living in Senegal should be prepared for both the arid conditions of the early months and the heavy, moisture-laden air characteristic of the summer.
In September, Senegal experiences notably high ultraviolet (UV) index levels, with average daily maximum UVI reaching 13 in Tambacounda and even peaking at 14 in Kédougou. These figures underscore a significant upward trend in UV exposure during this month, reflecting the region's intense sunlight and environmental conditions. Residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant, taking necessary precautions to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation as they navigate the vibrant landscapes of these areas.
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Senegal enjoys a remarkable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant climate. For instance, the coastal city of Dakar basks in an impressive 353 hours of sunshine in May, while the eastern region of Kédougou records a staggering 338 hours in the same month, highlighting peak brightness during this season. In contrast, January sees Saint-Louis with 243 hours of sunshine, which is considerably lower than the summer months. Interestingly, Kédougou tops the charts in August with 258 hours, indicating that this region continues to enjoy considerable sunlight even later in the year. This rich tapestry of sunshine hours not only enhances the natural beauty of Senegal but also energizes its dynamic cultural landscape.
In Senegal, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly throughout the year and across different regions. For instance, Ziguinchor experiences a mere 15% chance of sunny days in August, highlighting the challenges of enjoying clear skies during the peak rainy season. In contrast, Matam basks in a much sunnier April, with an impressive 84% probability of sunshine, making it a prime time for outdoor activities and exploration. This stark contrast illustrates how regional weather patterns can create vastly different experiences, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right time and place to enjoy Senegal's vibrant landscape.
In Senegal, daylight hours vary significantly throughout the year, creating a dynamic backdrop for daily life and activities. In December, Saint-Louis experiences approximately 11 hours of sunlight, offering shorter days that invite cozy gatherings and a slower pace. As the year progresses into June, the sun graces the city with 13 hours of daylight, allowing residents and visitors to fully embrace outdoor adventures under longer, sunlit skies. This transition not only highlights the vibrant seasonal shifts but also underscores the region's enchanting balance between light and shadow, making each month a unique experience.
Dakar, Senegal, enjoys a warm coastal climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 18°C (64°F) in January to a sizzling 31°C (89°F) in October. The city experiences little to no rainfall from January to May, making these months ideal for exploration. However, the wet season kicks in from June to September, bringing increased humidity and notable precipitation, particularly in August when 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain falls. Despite the humidity peaking during summer, the pleasant ocean breeze helps to moderate the heat, ensuring that visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city. For more detailed information, visit Dakar climate.
Diourbel, Senegal, experiences a hot and dry climate, with January through May offering strikingly high temperatures—often reaching up to 45°C (113°F) in May. The wet season begins in June, bringing a noticeable increase in humidity, peaking in August when average humidity levels hover around 79%. Rainfall is minimal until June, with August recording the most substantial downpour at 157 mm (6.2 in). This unique climate pattern makes Diourbel a region where the contrast between the dry, sweltering months and the humid, rain-filled summer is striking, offering a distinctive experience for visitors and residents alike. To explore more about the year's weather dynamics, check the detailed Diourbel climate.
Fatick, Senegal, experiences a hot and humid tropical climate, with temperatures soaring from an average of 25°C (77°F) in January to around 29°C (84°F) in October. The summer months of July and August bring both higher temperatures and significant rainfall, with August averaging a notable 228 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation. Humidity levels rise substantially during this period, peaking at 82%, adding extra warmth to the already sizzling conditions. As the year progresses, the dry season returns, particularly from November to May, where the landscape basks in sunshine and minimal rainfall. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, visit Fatick climate.
Kaffrine, Senegal, experiences a hot semi-arid climate, characterized by extreme temperatures and varying humidity levels throughout the year. From January to April, residents endure soaring highs, peaking at an intense 45°C (113°F) in April, while humidity remains relatively low, creating a dry heat. The rainy season kicks off in June, dramatically increasing precipitation, with August recording a staggering 241 mm (9.5 in) of rain and humidity levels rising to an oppressive 87%. This stark transition between the dry and wet months shapes the unique climate of Kaffrine, making it an intriguing destination for those curious about the dynamics of weather in Senegal. For more insights, explore the Kaffrine climate.
Kaolack, Senegal, boasts a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures soaring from a mild 14°C (57°F) in January to a scorching 44°C (112°F) in April. The dry season from January to May sees little to no rainfall, while the rainy season kicks in with dramatic downpours, particularly in August, where monthly precipitation can reach a staggering 256 mm (10.1 in). Humidity levels rise significantly during the wet months, peaking at 82% in August and September, creating a sultry atmosphere. For those braving the heat and humidity, Kaolack offers a unique experience in the heart of Senegal, where the climate shapes both the landscape and lifestyle. For more insights, visit Kaolack climate.
Kolda, Senegal experiences a hot climate characterized by soaring temperatures, especially from March to April, where highs can reach a blistering 45°C (114°F). The dry season stretches from January to April, with minimal precipitation, but by June, the region shifts to a more humid phase, culminating in heavy rainfall throughout July and August, when humidity peaks at an astonishing 86%. As the rains taper off by October, temperatures remain relatively high, maintaining an average around 28°C (83°F). This blend of heat and humidity creates a unique atmosphere reflective of Kolda’s vibrant environment; for more details, visit Kolda climate.
Kédougou, Senegal, boasts a tropical climate characterized by extreme temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to April, the region basks in sunshine with temperatures soaring as high as 43°C (110°F), while humidity remains low. The onset of the rainy season in May brings a dramatic change, with heavy downpours peaking in August, contributing to a marked increase in humidity levels that can reach 88%. As the year winds down, temperatures cool slightly, making December a more comfortable month for exploration. For a deeper look into the weather patterns and seasonal changes in this vibrant area, visit the Kédougou climate page.
Louga, Senegal, experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal variations in humidity and precipitation. From January to May, the mercury often rises above 40°C (104°F), creating a sweltering atmosphere, especially in March and May when the maximum reaches up to 45°C (113°F). The region transitions into a more humid phase from June through September, marked by the monsoon season where rainfall peaks in August, accumulating about 98 mm (3.9 in). Despite this, the dry season returns in October to December, bringing lower humidity levels and milder temperatures. For more detailed insights, explore the Louga climate.
Matam, Senegal, boasts a hot and dry climate, characterized by sweltering temperatures that peak in the summer months. From January to April, the mercury rises steadily, reaching impressive highs of up to 46°C (114°F) in April. As the rainy season begins in June, temperatures remain high but are tempered by increasing humidity, soaring to 81% in August. With a significant amount of rainfall, particularly in the late summer months, the landscape transforms, showcasing the resilience of this vibrant region. For a more detailed look, explore Matam climate.
Saint-Louis, Senegal, boasts a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to March, temperatures soar, reaching highs of up to 44°C (112°F), while the humidity remains relatively low, providing a warm but comfortable atmosphere. As the rainy season approaches in July and August, temperatures slightly drop, but humidity climbs significantly, peaking at 73%. Rainfall during these months dramatically increases, with August receiving up to 54 mm (2.1 in), transforming the landscape beautifully. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns of this vibrant city, check out the detailed Saint-Louis climate.
Sédhiou, Senegal, boasts a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to April, the mercury climbs steadily, reaching a peak of 43°C (109°F) in April, while humidity levels remain relatively low, hovering between 34% and 49%. The rainy season kicks in around June, dramatically increasing precipitation to a staggering 381 mm (15.0 in) in August, coupled with humidity soaring to 85%. As the year progresses into November and December, temperatures begin to cool moderately, but the dry season returns, offering a respite from the heat. For a more detailed exploration of the region's weather patterns, visit Sédhiou climate.
In Tambacounda, Senegal, the climate showcases an intense heat that peaks during the summer months, with January temperatures ranging from a mild 16°C (60°F) to a scorching 41°C (106°F) in the afternoons. As the year unfolds, the heat intensifies, reaching up to 46°C (115°F) in both April and May. The rainy season kicks off in June, bringing a significant increase in humidity, which soars to about 85% in July. This lush, wet season continues through August and September, adding a dramatic contrast to the otherwise dry months of the year. For a deeper dive into this fascinating climate, visit Tambacounda climate.
Nestled in the heart of Senegal, Thiès experiences a climate that truly embraces the charm of the Sahel. Temperatures soar during the peak months of March to May, reaching highs of up to 44°C (111°F), while the cooler months from November to February offer refreshing lows of 12°C (55°F), making it a place of contrasts. Rainfall is scarce for much of the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in August, where humidity can rise to a sweltering 79%. This vibrant climate not only shapes daily life in Thiès but also enhances its unique cultural tapestry. For more detailed insights, visit the Thiès climate.
Ziguinchor, Senegal, boasts a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures and a pronounced wet season. From January to May, the mercury soars with daytime highs frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F), while the humidity remains relatively low, hovering around 34% to 58%. The arrival of the rainy season in June marks a dramatic shift, with heavy downpours peaking in July and August, where humidity levels reach a stifling 85%. As the rains taper off in the fall, temperatures remain warm, with averages near 28°C (82°F). For a deeper dive into this captivating climate, visit Ziguinchor climate.
The climate of Senegal presents a diverse tapestry of conditions, with notable extremes showcasing both the heat and humidity that define the region. In the northern areas like Saint-Louis, temperatures dip to a cool 12°C (55°F) in January, while Matam experiences scorching highs of 47°C (116°F) in June, underlining the stark contrasts across the country. Rainfall varies significantly as well; December in Kédougou sees virtually no precipitation, yet August in Ziguinchor can bring a staggering 418 mm (16.5 in), contributing to the lush landscape during the rainy season. Additionally, humidity levels fluctuate dramatically, plummeting to a dry average of 9% in March in Matam, and soaring to a humid 88% in August in Tambacounda. These trends illustrate how Senegal's climate shapes its environment, influencing agriculture, lifestyles, and the rhythm of daily life across the nation.