Last updated: January 18, 2025
Louga, Senegal, is characterized by a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen-Geiger class BSh), marked by significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. January experiences its coolest temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F), while the peak of the heat is felt in May, where temperatures can soar to a staggering 45°C (114°F). The annual average temperature hovers around 28°C (82°F), reflecting the region's typically warm and dry conditions. This climate not only influences local ecosystems but also significantly impacts agricultural practices and water management strategies in Louga.
In Louga, Senegal, temperature patterns reflect a distinct seasonal variation, with a gradual increase in warmth from January to May. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January, where minimums drop to 13°C (56°F), gradually rising to 17°C (63°F) by May, which also registers the highest maximum temperature of 45°C (114°F). As the rainy season approaches in June, temperatures remain high, with an average of 29°C (84°F), and then slightly decline through the summer months of July and August, when maximums hover around the low 40s°C (100s°F). The fall months of September and October bring a return to elevated averages, peaking at 30°C (86°F) in October, before cooling again in November and December, suggesting a clear transition from intense heat to more moderate temperatures as the year progresses.
Gueoul, Ndibene Dahra, and Dara all experience a minimum temperature of 13°C (56°F) in January, with maximum temperatures peaking at 45°C (114°F) in May for Gueoul, and 45°C (113°F) for both Ndibene Dahra and Dara. For more details, you can check the monthly temperatures in Gueoul here, Ndibene Dahra here, and Dara here.
In Louga, Senegal, precipitation is predominantly concentrated in the summer months, with a stark contrast between the dry and wet seasons. From January to May, the region experiences negligible rainfall, with 0 mm recorded throughout this period, indicating a pronounced dry spell. As June arrives, the climate begins to shift, bringing a slight uptick in precipitation with 5 mm falling, which marks the onset of the rainy season. However, it is in July and August that Louga sees its most significant rainfall, accumulating 24 mm and 98 mm respectively, showcasing the peak of the wet season during this timeframe.
The post-summer months also experience considerable rainfall, with September contributing 87 mm over 9 days, followed by October, which sees a drop to 16 mm over 2 days. By November and December, precipitation levels return to minimally impactful values, with 1 mm and 0 mm respectively, reinforcing the cycle of dry months. Altogether, the precipitation pattern in Louga profoundly influences the local ecosystem and agricultural practices, dictating the timing and availability of water resources throughout the year.
In Louga, Senegal, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend, with a steady increase from the cooler months to the warmer summer period. Beginning in January, where the sun shines for 248 hours, there is a gradual ascent in sunlight hours with February receiving 283 hours. This upward trajectory culminates in May, the month with the highest sunshine, boasting an impressive 351 hours. The transition into the rainy season in June slightly reduces sunshine to 330 hours, yet it remains substantial, illustrating how the region maintains significant sunlight even during the onset of showers.
As summer progresses, the sunshine duration remains relatively stable, with 335 hours in both July and August, showcasing the consistency of sunlight during these months. Following the summer peak, September marks a slight decline to 304 hours, indicating the gradual approach of autumn. Despite this decrease, October regains momentum with 320 hours, while November and December bring about a return to less sunny days, averaging 295 hours and 301 hours, respectively. Overall, the pattern of sunshine in Louga highlights the region's potential for solar energy utilization, particularly in the peak months from March to August, as extended sunny days significantly influence local lifestyles and agricultural practices.
The UV Index in Louga, Senegal, reveals a pattern of very high to extreme solar radiation throughout the year, with significant implications for sun safety. Starting from January and February, the index registers a strong 10, indicating a very high exposure level with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the season progresses into March, the UV Index escalates to 12 and reaches its peak in April with a record 14, categorizing it as extreme. This critical warning underscores the heightened risk of skin damage, with recommended brief exposure times of only 10 minutes for these months.
The trend of extreme UV levels persists into the summer, with the index holding steady at 13 from June to July, then slightly increasing again to 14 in August and September. Such elevated UV levels necessitate strict sun protection measures, especially as October sees a decrease to 12, while November returns to 10, and December drops further to 8, still within the very high category. Overall, the UV Index underscores the importance of adopting protective strategies against harmful solar radiation for residents and visitors in Louga, particularly during the peak months of April through September.
UV Risk Categories
In Louga, Senegal, daylight duration exhibits a consistent annual pattern that reflects the region's geographical positioning. Starting the year with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, the months gradually progress towards longer days. By March, daylight increases to 12 hours and remains steady at this length through April and May, representing a period of moderate daylight that supports various outdoor activities and agricultural practices.
As the summer months approach, June marks a peak with 13 hours of daylight, providing extended opportunities for sunlight throughout the day. However, this increase is followed by a return to 12 hours from July through September, showcasing stability in daylight during the humid and rainy season. The autumn and winter months revert to 11 hours in October, November, and December, rounding off the year's daylight cycle. Overall, the alternating patterns in Louga are essential for understanding seasonal changes and their influence on daily life and environmental factors in the region.
Dara, Senegal, experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures year-round, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 24°C (76°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) from June to October. Precipitation is minimal during the dry season (January to May), while the months of July and August bring significant rainfall, peaking at 115 mm (4.5 in) in August. Sunshine hours remain abundant, with May showcasing the highest at 350 hours. Despite high temperatures, the dry months offer clear skies, making Dara a location with striking weather variations. For more details, visit Dara climate.
Gueoul, Senegal experiences a hot tropical climate characterized by high temperatures year-round. January and February see minimum temperatures around 13-14°C (56-57°F) and average highs reaching 40°C (104°F), while the hottest months, March and May, can peak at 45°C (113°F). Rainfall is minimal until June, with the wettest months being August and September, receiving around 82 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 353 hours in May, making Gueoul a bright and warm destination throughout the year. For more details, visit Gueoul climate.
Louga, Senegal, experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with extremes reaching up to 45°C (113°F) in March and May. January to April sees minimal precipitation, while the rainy season typically peaks in August and September, bringing a significant increase in rainfall to 82 mm (3.2 in) and 81 mm (3.2 in) respectively. The area enjoys ample sunshine, with hours peaking at 353 in May and remaining consistently high across other months. Overall, Louga's climate is defined by its heat and seasonal rainfall, making it vital for residents and visitors to prepare accordingly. For more information, visit Louga climate.
Ndibene Dahra, Senegal experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall. The summer months from May to August see maximum temperatures peaking at around 45°C (113°F) while rainfall is concentrated in August, with an average of 115 mm (4.5 in). The rest of the year remains dry, with no precipitation from January to May and only sporadic rain in the following months. Notably, sunshine is abundant year-round, with hours reaching up to 350 in May and consistently over 300 throughout the rest of the year. For more detailed information, visit the Ndibene Dahra climate.
In conclusion, Louga, Senegal, presents a unique climate characterized by its hot semi-arid conditions, significant temperature fluctuations, minimal but concentrated rainfall, and robust sunlight availability throughout the year. The region experiences intense UV radiation, particularly during the peak summer months, necessitating proactive sun protection strategies for both residents and visitors. Daylight duration remains relatively stable, with only slight variations, providing ample time for agricultural and outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic and environmental dynamics is crucial for developing sustainable practices and effectively managing local resources, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in this vibrant region.