Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kaolack, Senegal, is characterized by a BSh Köppen-Geiger climate classification, indicative of a tropical savanna environment. The region experiences a marked temperature variation throughout the year, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) recorded in January, an average temperature of 28°C (82°F), and maximum extremes reaching up to 45°C (112°F) in May. This climate profile highlights the potential for both agricultural productivity and challenges such as heat stress, influencing local ecosystems and livelihoods.
In Kaolack, Senegal, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal variation that aligns with the tropical savanna climate. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums drop to 14°C (57°F), gradually warming through February and March, as both minimums and maxima increase. April and May mark the peak of the hot season, with maximum temperatures soaring to 44°C (112°F) and 45°C (112°F) respectively, while average temperatures hover around 29°C (84°F). As the rainy season approaches, June to August sees a slight relief in maximum temperatures, stabilizing around 39°C (102°F), and maintaining an average of 28-29°C (82-85°F). The transition into the cooler months of September to December showcases a gradual decline in temperatures, with average highs returning to the lower 40s°C (104°F), emphasizing Kaolack's significant warming trend followed by a mild cooling as the year concludes.
Kaolack experiences a minimum temperature of 14°C (57°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 45°C (112°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Kaolack). Similarly, Nioro du Rip shares the same minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January but has a slightly lower maximum of 43°C (110°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Nioro du Rip). Gandiaye also records a minimum of 14°C (57°F) in January and reaches a peak of 44°C (112°F) in April (monthly temperatures in Gandiaye).
Kaolack, Senegal, experiences a pronounced wet-dry climate pattern characterized by a dry season that spans from January to May, during which the region receives virtually no precipitation, totaling 0 mm throughout these months. This prolonged dry spell sets the stage for the onset of the rainy season, which begins in June and lasts until September. Notably, June marks the first significant rainfall of the year with 15 mm (0.6 in) accumulated over a single rainy day, signaling a transition into wetter conditions.
The peak of the rainy season occurs in August, with an impressive 256 mm (10.1 in) of rainfall over 19 days, contributing significantly to the region’s annual precipitation. Following August, September continues to deliver substantial rainfall, with 160 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days. As the season wanes, October sees a sharp decrease to 31 mm (1.2 in), while November and December revert to dry conditions with minimal precipitation. This seasonal distribution underscores the importance of the rainy season for local agriculture and water resources in Kaolack.
In Kaolack, Senegal, the annual sunshine duration displays a clear seasonal trend, with significant increases from January through May. The year kicks off with 250 hours of sunshine in January, gradually climbing to a peak of 349 hours in May. This steady rise reflects the transition from the dry season into the pre-monsoon period, where longer, sunnier days are characteristic of the region. Particularly notable are March and April, which contribute a remarkable 336 hours and 334 hours respectively, illustrating the abundant sunlight that precedes the onset of the rainy season.
The gradual decrease in sunshine begins following the peak in May, as clouds and rainfall start to dominate the weather patterns. From June to August, Kaolack experiences a slight dip in sunshine duration, with hours ranging from 327 to 291. However, October sees a resurgence, with 316 hours of sunlight, continuing a trend of relatively high exposure to sunshine in the months leading into the year-end. November and December maintain substantial sunshine with 301 and 307 hours, offering a balanced mix of clear skies and seasonal rain. This seasonal fluctuation illustrates how Kaolack’s sunshine pattern directly influences local agriculture, outdoor activities, and overall climatic comfort throughout the year.
The UV Index in Kaolack, Senegal, presents a significant health consideration throughout the year, marked by a predominately very high to extreme exposure category. Beginning in January, the UV Index starts at 9 and remains at this level into February. However, as the year progresses into March, the index escalates to 13 and peaks at 14 in both April and July, indicating extreme exposure levels. This surge in UV radiation emphasizes the importance of sun protection during these months, with recommended burn times as short as 10 minutes, particularly from March through October.
Even in the latter months of the year, the UV Index remains notably high, with 12 in October and returning to 10 in November before tapering back to 9 in December. The persistent high levels of UV radiation, particularly during the dry and warmer seasons, necessitate increased vigilance in sun safety practices for both residents and visitors. The consistent emphasis on limited sun exposure highlights the need for protective measures, including sunscreen, clothing, and avoidance of direct sunlight during peak hours, ensuring public health awareness in this sunny region.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Kaolack, Senegal, remains relatively stable throughout the year, averaging around 11 to 12 hours per day. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, signaling the region's consistent exposure to sunlight during the dry season. As March arrives, daylight begins to extend slightly, reaching 12 hours, a pattern that continues through April, May, and into the mid-year months of June, July, and August, where daylight remains steadily at 12 hours.
As the year progresses toward the end of summer, the daylight duration gradually reverts back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This consistency in daylight hours is particularly beneficial for agricultural activities, outdoor routines, and tourism, providing ample opportunity for engagement with the vibrant environment. The relatively minor fluctuations throughout the year contribute to a predictable natural cycle, allowing residents and visitors to plan their activities with confidence in Kaolack's reliable sunlight.
Gandiaye, Senegal experiences a hot tropical climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with maximums reaching up to 44°C (112°F) in April and May. The cool season runs from December to February, with average temperatures around 25-26°C (77-80°F). Rainfall is minimal from January to May, but the wettest months are July and August, receiving 70 mm and 228 mm respectively. Despite the rainfall, Gandiaye enjoys substantial sunshine, peaking at 350 hours in May. For detailed climate statistics, visit Gandiaye climate.
Kaolack, Senegal experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to May, temperatures soar, reaching maximums of up to 45°C (112°F) in May, with little to no rainfall. The rainy season begins in June, peaking in August, where precipitation can reach 227 mm (8.9 in) while temperatures remain consistently warm. Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, with May enjoying the most hours at 349. For more detailed information, visit Kaolack climate.
Ndofane, Senegal experiences a hot semi-arid climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in April and May. Rainfall is minimal from January to May, with significant precipitation occurring mainly in July (105 mm) and August (267 mm), marking the peak of the rainy season. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, especially in March and May, with over 336 hours of sunshine during these months. Overall, Ndofane's climate is characterized by high temperatures, a distinct wet season, and plenty of sunshine, making it a unique environment. For more information, visit Ndofane climate.
Nioro du Rip, Senegal, experiences a hot and dry climate for most of the year, with temperatures peaking in April and May, reaching maximums of 42°C (109°F) and 43°C (110°F), respectively. Rainfall is scarce until the onset of the rainy season in June, which brings significant precipitation, peaking in August with 302 mm (11.9 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from March to May, with over 335 hours of sunlight each month. Overall, Nioro du Rip presents a climate characterized by high temperatures and a distinct wet and dry season. For more detailed information, visit Nioro du Rip climate.
In conclusion, Kaolack, Senegal, exemplifies a climatic pattern characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a marked contrast between the dry season, with prolonged periods of sunshine and extreme UV exposure, and the rainy season, which significantly enhances local agricultural productivity. The consistent daylight duration throughout the year further supports outdoor activities and livelihoods. Awareness of these climatic factors is essential for both residents and visitors, allowing for informed decisions regarding health, agriculture, and recreation in this vibrant Senegalese community.