Last updated: January 18, 2025
Tambacounda, Senegal, is characterized by a Köppen-Geiger climate classification of Aw, indicating a tropical savanna climate. The region experiences a temperature spectrum that ranges from a cool minimum of 16°C (60°F) in January to a sweltering maximum of 46°C (115°F) in April. On average, temperatures hover around 31°C (87°F), highlighting the significant seasonal warmth that defines this West African locality. This climatic profile not only impacts local ecosystems but also influences the daily lives and agricultural practices of its inhabitants.
In Tambacounda, Senegal, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The year begins with cooler temperatures in January averaging 28°C (82°F), gently rising throughout February and March, where average highs reach 33°C (91°F) and 35°C (95°F), respectively. April marks the peak of the heat, with highs soaring to 46°C (115°F), while May maintains these high averages despite slightly cooler nights. As the rainy season approaches in June, temperatures begin to decline, with averages dropping to 33°C (92°F). The onset of the rainy season in July and August introduces a respite from the extreme heat, yielding temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and 28°C (83°F), respectively. Transitioning into the late months, October heralds a gradual return to warmth with peaks near 40°C (104°F), while the year wraps up in December with averages returning to around 28°C (83°F). Overall, Tambacounda’s climatic fluctuation, delineated by a hot season followed by a more temperate rainy period, profoundly influences both environmental conditions and local lifestyle.
Tambacounda experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F) in January and a scorching maximum of 46°C (115°F) in April. These extremes illustrate the region's typically hot climate, which is detailed further at monthly temperatures in Tambacounda.
In Tambacounda, Senegal, precipitation is largely absent until the onset of the rainy season, characterized by a prolonged dry spell from January through April, during which no rainfall occurs. This dry period typically contributes to the region's hot climatic conditions, as the lack of moisture influences both temperature and humidity levels. The first hint of rainfall appears in May with a meager 1 mm, but it is in June that the precipitation begins to surge, marking the transition into the wet season with approximately 31 mm recorded over four rainy days.
The heart of the rainy season unfolds in July and August, with rainfall dramatically increasing to 108 mm (4.2 in) and an impressive 221 mm (8.7 in), respectively. This peak results in 15 to 20 rainy days during these months, emphasizing the seasonal shift and creating a stark contrast to the dry months. September experiences a decline in precipitation to about 192 mm (7.6 in) while remaining relatively wet, followed by a notable drop in October. The year's end sees a return to dryness, with just 1 mm in November and no recorded precipitation in December, thus completing a cycle of intense wetness followed by extended periods of dryness that profoundly shapes the local environment.
Tambacounda, Senegal, enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, with a marked seasonal trend in duration. Starting from January, the region experiences 252 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases as the months progress and sunlight becomes more abundant. February sees a slight uptick to 285 hours, but the most pronounced growth occurs in the spring months, culminating in March with 333 hours. April and May maintain a high level of sunshine, recording 328 and 341 hours respectively, demonstrating that this period is particularly favorable for sun enthusiasts and agricultural activities alike.
The onset of the rainy season in June brings a slight decrease in sunshine hours to 324, followed by a more noticeable drop in July, where only 294 hours of sunshine are recorded. Although sunshine hours remain relatively consistent through August and September, it is essential to note that they still hover around the 270 to 280 hour range, slightly lower due to increased cloud cover. As the year progresses into October and November, sunshine duration improves again, with 307 and 295 hours, respectively, before concluding with 306 hours in December. This pattern reveals a cyclical nature in sunshine exposure, with substantial peaks during the dry months, making Tambacounda a region defined by its vibrant, sunlit days.
The UV Index in Tambacounda, Senegal, reflects significant variations throughout the year, with particularly intense sun exposure during the dry season. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers at 8, categorized as "very high," urging caution with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the month progresses into February, the situation intensifies, ascending to 9, where the risk remains high. However, it is in March and April that the UV Index peaks, reaching an extreme level of 11, necessitating reduced sun exposure as burn time reduces to a mere 10 minutes. May continues this trend with an equally high value of 12, showcasing the escalating intensity of the sun's rays.
The months of June through September maintain the extreme UV levels, pricing at 12 to 13, indicating critical sun safety measures are imperative, as skin can begin to burn within just 10 minutes of exposure. October marks a slight decline with a UV Index of 12, followed by a return to 9 in November and 8 in December, indicating a seasonal decrease in sun intensity as the rainy season unfolds. Overall, this pattern underscores the importance of sun protection in Tambacounda, especially during the peak months when the risks associated with high UV exposure are at their most severe.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Tambacounda, Senegal, demonstrates a relatively consistent pattern year-round, featuring 11 hours of daylight during the winter months of January and February. The gradual transition into spring introduces a slight increase in daylight, with March seeing 12 hours, a trend that persists through April, May, and into June. This stability in daylight duration highlights the region's proximity to the equator, resulting in less variation compared to more temperate zones.
As the rainy season progresses and the months shift to late summer and early autumn, Tambacounda maintains its 12 hours of daylight from July through September. However, as the year takes a downward turn towards November and December, daylight hours return to 11 hours, wrapping up the cycle. This consistency in sunlight availability throughout the year underscores the importance of natural light in supporting both ecosystems and the daily lives of the local population, particularly in agricultural and outdoor activities.
Tambacounda, Senegal, experiences a hot and dry climate with distinct seasonal variations. January through April feature high temperatures peaking at 46°C (115°F), while rainfall remains negligible until June. The wet season lasts from June to September, with August receiving the highest precipitation of 221 mm (8.7 in). Despite the heat, the region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in March and May, with over 340 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Tambacounda climate.
In conclusion, Tambacounda, Senegal, presents a unique climatic narrative marked by distinct temperature patterns, significant sunshine hours, and heightened UV exposure throughout the year. The pronounced seasonal variations underscore the interplay between rainfall and arid periods, influencing local ecosystems and agricultural practices. With consistent daylight duration and a pronounced UV Index that peaks during the dry months, sun safety measures become crucial for residents and visitors alike. Overall, understanding these climatic and environmental characteristics not only enhances awareness of the region's natural rhythms but also informs effective strategies for sustainable living and outdoor activities in this vibrant West African locale.