Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kaffrine, Senegal, exhibits a dynamic climate characterized by two Koppen-Geiger classifications: BSh (semi-arid) and Aw (tropical savanna). The region experiences a broad temperature spectrum, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F) recorded in January, rising to an average of 29°C (84°F). The warmest month, May, can reach scorching maximum temperatures of 45°C (114°F), underscoring the significant thermal variability inherent in its climate. This combination of factors contributes to the distinctive weather patterns and ecological characteristics of the Kaffrine region.
In Kaffrine, Senegal, temperature patterns display a distinct seasonal progression, with January marking the onset of cooler conditions, as evidenced by a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). As the year unfolds, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in the hotter months of April and May, where maximum values reach up to 45°C (113°F) and 45°C (114°F), respectively. The transition into the wet season sees a slight cooling effect in June, with temperatures stabilizing around 31°C (88°F) on average, before dipping slightly in the subsequent months of July and August. By the end of the year, temperatures reflect another cool phase, with averages declining back to 26°C (80°F) in December. This cyclical pattern illustrates the strong influence of seasonal changes on the climatic conditions in Kaffrine.
In Kaffrine, temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 44°C (112°F) in May, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Kaffrine. Similarly, Koungheul experiences a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January and peaks at 45°C (114°F) in May, as shown in the monthly temperatures in Koungheul.
Kaffrine, Senegal, experiences a pronounced dry season for the first four months of the year, with negligible precipitation recorded from January to April, where totals remain at 0 mm (0.0 in). The onset of the rainy season begins in May with a minimal rainfall of 1 mm (0.0 in), but it is in June that significant monthly precipitation emerges, amounting to 15 mm (0.6 in) over just a couple of days. This marks the gradual transition into heavier rains anticipated in the following months.
The peak precipitation occurs during July and August, with July receiving 109 mm (4.3 in) across 12 days, and August further exacerbating the totals with 241 mm (9.5 in) over 18 days. September follows with substantial rainfall, totaling 159 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days, before the precipitation begins to taper off in October to 34 mm (1.3 in), and then to nearly negligible levels once again in November and December. This distinct wet and dry cycle highlights the seasonal variability of precipitation in Kaffrine.
In Kaffrine, Senegal, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a progressive increase in hours of sunlight from early in the year. Starting with 249 hours in January, the region experiences consistent growth, reaching its peak in May with an impressive 347 hours of sunshine. This increase continues through March and April, where sunshine hours remain notably high at 335 hours and 333 hours respectively. These months herald the transition into the summer season, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the year progresses into the rainy season starting in June, sunshine hours begin to decline slightly, though still robust at 327 hours. This reduction continues through July and August, when the region receives 314 hours and 280 hours of sunlight, respectively. Interestingly, while sunlight decreases during these peak rainfall months, the trend stabilizes in the subsequent months of September and October, offering 287 hours and 314 hours of sunshine. By year-end, November and December see a resurgence in sunshine with 296 hours and 307 hours respectively, closing the year on a brighter note. This cyclical pattern of sunshine duration underscores the diverse climatic influences in Kaffrine while reinforcing the robust sunny conditions prevalent during the dry months.
The UV Index in Kaffrine, Senegal, demonstrates a striking seasonal pattern, with values consistently indicating very high to extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation, particularly during the late dry season and summer months. In January, the UV Index stands at 9, categorized as very high, which necessitates caution during prolonged sun exposure. This escalates in February, reaching 10, and peaks further during March to May at 13, classified as extreme. The burn time during these months drops to a mere 10 minutes, emphasizing the need for protective measures to safeguard against potential skin damage.
As summer transitions into early rainy season, the UV Index remains notably high, sustaining extreme ratings of 13 from June through September. August emerges as the month with the highest value, peaking at 14, underscoring the intensity of solar radiation during this period. October experiences a slight dip to 12, but remains in the extreme category. As the year approaches its end, November brings the UV Index back to 10, and December sees a decrease to 8, both categorized as very high. This trajectory highlights the consistent necessity for sun safety practices in Kaffrine, particularly during the peak months of sunshine and heightened UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Kaffrine, Senegal, reflects a consistent pattern characteristic of its tropical climate, where the length of day remains relatively stable throughout the year. During the first two months of the year, January and February, the region enjoys about 11 hours of daylight. This gradually shifts as the equinox approaches, with March marking an increase to 12 hours of daylight, a duration that remains steady from March through September. This period of extended daylight fosters an environment conducive to agriculture and outdoor activities.
As the year progresses into October, daylight duration begins to taper off once again, falling back to 11 hours through November and December. This cyclical fluctuation, although modest in scale, underscores the subtropical climate's influence on daily life in Kaffrine. The consistency in daylight hours helps residents optimize their activities around the sun's availability, highlighting the unique balance of light and seasonal changes integral to life in this vibrant region.
Kaffrine, Senegal, experiences a hot tropical climate with a significant temperature range throughout the year. January temperatures start at a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and can peak at 39°C (102°F), while March and April see their maximums reaching up to 43°C (111°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, followed by a dramatic increase during the summer months, particularly in August, which receives 266 mm (10.5 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, with May recording the highest at 348 hours. For more details, visit Kaffrine climate.
Koungheul, Senegal experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures reaching a peak of 45°C (113°F) in April and May. The rainy season occurs from June to September, bringing significant precipitation, particularly in August when it averages 216 mm (8.5 in). Despite the rainfall, Koungheul enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with around 346 hours in May, the sunniest month. The cooler months from November to February feature milder temperatures, ranging from 14°C (58°F) to 29°C (84°F) on average. For more details about the weather in Koungheul, check the Koungheul climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Kaffrine, Senegal, is marked by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a pronounced dry season followed by a wet season characterized by significant rainfall and high UV exposure, particularly during the summer months. With a rich abundance of sunshine and relatively stable daylight hours, residents can engage in various outdoor activities and agriculture throughout the year. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for effectively adapting to and optimizing lifestyle choices, agricultural practices, and health precautions in Kaffrine, ensuring a harmonious relationship with its environment.