Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Am, indicative of a tropical monsoon climate. Characterized by a minimum temperature of 14°C (58°F) in January and an average that hovers around 26°C (79°F), this region experiences notably high temperatures, peaking at an impressive 40°C (104°F) in March. This climatic resilience not only defines the local ecology but also impacts agricultural practices and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
In the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, temperature patterns reveal distinct seasonal variations throughout the year. The year begins with January's cooler temperatures, featuring a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and a peak of 38°C (100°F), but by March, the heat escalates as maximum temperatures reach 40°C (104°F). Following this peak, April and May see a slight cool-down, with averages around 27°C (82°F) and 26°C (80°F), while maximum temperatures remain high. As the climate shifts into the rainy season around June, the temperatures drop noticeably, with averages descending to 24°C (76°F) in July and August. The cooler conditions persist through September and October, illustrating a consistent trend of mild temperatures and increased rainfall. As the year concludes in December, temperatures begin to rise again, demonstrating the cyclical nature of the climate in this region.
In Kailahun, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, while Yengema experiences slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January and a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in March. Similarly, Koidu also records a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January and reaches up to 39°C (102°F) in March. For more detailed monthly temperatures in these locations, visit monthly temperatures in Kailahun, monthly temperatures in Yengema, and monthly temperatures in Koidu.
The Eastern Province of Sierra Leone experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with a stark difference between the dry and wet months. January and February are relatively dry, receiving only 6 mm (0.2 in) and 23 mm (0.9 in) of rainfall, respectively, accompanied by minimal rainy days. As the region transitions into March, precipitation begins to increase, culminating in a significant rise to 66 mm (2.6 in). This upward trend continues into April and May, where monthly rainfall escalates to 107 mm (4.2 in) and 185 mm (7.3 in), coinciding with an increase in rainy days as the region approaches the peak of the wet season.
The onset of the heavy rainfall period occurs in June, reaching 295 mm (11.6 in), and further intensifies in July and August with the highest monthly totals of 406 mm (16.0 in) and 425 mm (16.7 in), respectively. September records even more rainfall at 447 mm (17.6 in), maintaining the trend of high precipitation alongside sustained rainy days. As the season transitions into October and November, rainfall decreases to 259 mm (10.2 in) and 115 mm (4.5 in), marking a gradual return to drier conditions. The year concludes in December with lower rainfall and only 21 mm (0.8 in), signaling the end of the rainy season.
In the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, reflecting the transition from the dry to the wet months. The year begins with January boasting 254 hours of sunlight, which gradually increases through February to 282 hours. March maintains a similar level at 276 hours, showcasing a steady rise in sunlight as the region prepares for the onset of the rainy season. However, as the rainy months approach, the hours of sunshine begin to decrease, with April recording 253 hours followed by 247 hours in May.
The trend of diminishing sunshine continues during the peak of the rainy season in June, July, and August, where the province sees its lowest levels of sunlight, with 225, 206, and 196 hours respectively. This substantial decline highlights the impact of the wet season on daily sunlight availability. However, as the rains taper off in September, sunshine duration begins to recover, reaching 211 hours. The months of October and November bring a resurgence, with 256 and 261 hours of sunlight, while December shines the brightest with a remarkable 300 hours, marking the conclusion of the year with optimal sun exposure.
The UV Index in Eastern Province, Sierra Leone, reflects consistently intense solar radiation throughout the year, characterized by an "extreme" exposure category in the first eight months. Starting from January and February, the UV Index registers at 11, necessitating careful sun protection, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. As the year progresses into March, the UV Index rises to 12, peaking at 13 in April, May, and June. This sustained elevation emphasizes a critical need for sun safety measures during the dry season, where prolonged exposure can lead to adverse skin effects.
The summer months of July and August see a peak UV Index of 13 and 14, respectively, indicating some of the highest levels of ultraviolet radiation. Following this peak, there is a slight decrease in September to 14, but the risk remains significant. In October, the UV Index drops to 12, transitioning into November and December with a UV Index of 10, categorized as "very high," allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. Overall, the data underscore the importance of sun safety year-round, especially during the peak months of August and September when the UV radiation levels are at their highest.
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In Eastern Province, Sierra Leone, daylight duration exhibits minimal variation throughout the year, generally remaining around 11 to 12 hours. The year begins with a consistent 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a stable start to the calendar. As March approaches, daylight extends slightly to 12 hours, a trend that continues through April, May, June, and into July, ensuring ample time for daily activities and agricultural practices during the dry season.
As the year progresses into the latter months, the daylight duration returns to 11 hours in October, November, and December, signaling a subtle seasonal shift. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the region’s equatorial nature, where daylight length remains relatively constant, contributing to a warm and tropical climate year-round. The steady daylight hours facilitate both solar energy generation and natural rhythms for the local ecosystem, reinforcing the importance of this consistency in daily life and agricultural productivity.
Barma, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in July and August to 28°C (83°F) in January through March, with maxima peaking at 39°C (103°F) in March. The wettest months are July and August, receiving over 400 mm (15.7 in) of rainfall, while January remains the driest month with only 6 mm (0.24 in). Despite the rain, Barma enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, especially in December with 300 hours. For more detailed information, visit Barma climate.
Blama, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. January starts with averages around 27°C (81°F), peaking up to 38°C (100°F), while the rainy season from May to September is marked by heavy precipitation, with July receiving up to 516 mm (20.3 in). Sunshine varies throughout the year, peaking in February with 270 hours, and declining during the rainy months. The climate is generally warm and humid, making for a vibrant ecosystem. For more detailed information, visit Blama climate.
Boajibu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to August. January sees milder temperatures, with averages around 27°C (81°F) and minimal rainfall of 6 mm, while August typically experiences the most precipitation at 478 mm (18.8 in) and cooler averages of 24°C (75°F). The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in December with 300 hours and ranging around 220 to 284 hours during other months. This combination of heat and humidity contributes to a monsoon season that significantly influences the local ecosystem. For more details, visit Boajibu climate.
Buedu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in February and March, with cooler months in July and August. The region sees its peak rainfall between June and September, with July recording the highest average of 382 mm (15.0 in). Despite the heavy rains, Buedu enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in December with 296 hours. For more detailed information, visit Buedu climate.
Bunumbu, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. The hottest months are March and April, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C (103°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. The wet season spans from May to October, peaking in September with 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain. Despite the heavy rainfall, Bunumbu also enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in December with up to 299 hours. For more detailed information, visit Bunumbu climate.
Daru, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March, with an annual average of around 27°C (81°F). Rainfall peaks between July and September, with July recording the highest monthly precipitation of 368 mm (14.5 in). The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in February, with up to 276 hours. For more detailed information, visit Daru climate.
Giehun, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March, with cooler months seeing a drop in mercury. Rainfall peaks during the rainy season from May to September, culminating in an average of 426 mm (16.8 in) in September. Despite the heavy precipitation, sunshine hours are substantial, particularly in December, with 296 hours reported. For more detailed information, visit Giehun climate.
Gorahun, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from May to October. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a peak of 39°C (102°F) in March, while monthly rainfall can reach up to 520 mm (20.5 in) in July. The dry season occurs between November and April, marked by lower precipitation and more sunshine, reaching up to 291 hours in December. This seasonal variation in weather makes Gorahun's climate both diverse and dynamic. For more details, visit Gorahun climate.
Hangha, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The hottest months are March and April, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F), while the cooler months from June to August see temperatures drop to around 24°C (76°F). Rainfall peaks from July to September, with August receiving the highest average precipitation of 466 mm (18.4 in). Despite the heavy rain, Hangha enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, with December offering the most at 296 hours. For more details, visit Hangha climate.
Jojoima, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March. Rainfall peaks during the summer months, particularly in July and September, with over 350 mm of precipitation. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with February receiving the most sunlight at 276 hours. For more detailed information, visit Jojoima climate.
Kailahun, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Monthly average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 28°C (83°F), with January being the coolest month and March the hottest. Rainfall peaks between July and September, with July averaging a substantial 369 mm (14.5 in) of precipitation, while the drier months see significantly less. Sunshine is plentiful, particularly in February and December, offering nearly 280 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Kailahun climate.
The climate in Kayima, Sierra Leone, is characterized by a tropical pattern with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in February and March. The region experiences significant rainfall, especially from May to August, peaking at 473 mm (18.6 in) in August. Sunshine hours are plentiful, with March receiving the most at 307 hours, although it decreases during the rainy season. For more detailed climate information, visit Kayima climate.
Kenema, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. January marks the coolest month with a minimum temperature of 17°C (63°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), while February and March often see maximums reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The rainy season peaks from June to September, with July and August recording over 430 mm of rainfall. Despite the heavy precipitation, sunshine hours are notable, especially in February with 279 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Kenema climate.
Koidu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and substantial rainfall, particularly during the wet season from May to October. January temperatures range from a mild 15°C (59°F) to a hot 36°C (98°F), while the rainy season sees monthly precipitation peaking in July with nearly 491 mm (19.3 in). Sunshine hours are relatively high in the dry months, with February boasting 290 hours, but drop significantly during the wet season. This climate creates a lush environment, although it also brings challenges like flooding during peaks of rainfall. For more details, visit the Koidu climate.
Koyima, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in February and March, with average temperatures typically around 25-28°C (77-83°F). Rainfall peaks from May to August, with July and August seeing over 490 mm (19.3 in) of precipitation, while January and December remain relatively dry with less than 5 mm (0.2 in). The area enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in February and March, with over 290 hours of sunlight monthly. For more details, visit Koyima climate.
Manowa, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to September. January marks the warmest month, with temperatures averaging 27°C (81°F) and minimal precipitation (5 mm). The rainy season peaks in July and August, where monthly rainfall can reach up to 387 mm, correlating with the lowest sunshine hours. Despite heavy rainfall, the average temperatures remain relatively stable, ranging from 24°C (76°F) to 29°C (84°F). For more details, visit Manowa climate.
Mobai, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to September. January to April sees high temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 40°C (104°F), while cooler months from June to August average around 24°C (76°F). The rainy season peaks in July and August, with precipitation reaching up to 368 mm (14.5 in) and 359 mm (14.1 in) respectively. Despite the heavy rains, sunshine hours remain relatively high, with December having the most sunshine at 294 hours. For more detailed information, visit Mobai climate.
Motema, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. January to March sees warm temperatures, peaking in March with a maximum of 39°C (103°F), while the rainy season from May to August brings heavy precipitation, peaking in July at 422 mm (16.6 in). During the wet months, temperatures remain relatively stable, averaging around 24°C (75°F). The area enjoys the most sunshine in December with 300 hours, contrasting with the gloomy, rainy days of August. For more details, visit Motema climate.
Panguma, Sierra Leone experiences a warm climate with significant rainfall, particularly from May to August. Temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, with average monthly temperatures hovering around 25-28°C (77-83°F). The wettest months are July and August, receiving over 400 mm of precipitation, while January is the driest with just 6 mm. Sunshine varies throughout the year, peaking at 300 hours in December. For more detailed information, visit Panguma climate.
Pendembu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round, peaking in March at an average of 28°C (84°F) and hitting maximums of up to 40°C (104°F). The rainy season spans from May to September, with July and September receiving the highest precipitation at 368 mm (14.5 in) and 448 mm (17.6 in), respectively. Sunshine is plentiful, especially in the dry months of January and February, which boast over 250 hours of sun. Overall, Pendembu's climate features a significant contrast between the dry and wet seasons, making it essential for understanding local weather patterns. For more details, visit Pendembu climate.
Segbwema, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures are relatively warm year-round, ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March. The wet season peaks between June and September, with August receiving the highest precipitation at 403 mm (15.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from January to March, with February providing the most sunlight at 279 hours. For more detailed information, visit Segbwema climate.
Simbakoro, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall variation throughout the year. The hottest months are typically February and March, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 39°C (103°F), while the cooler months show minimum temperatures around 15°C (60°F) in January. The rainy season spans from May to September, peaking in July and August with over 400 mm of precipitation. Despite the rain, Simbakoro enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in December, which boasts around 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Simbakoro climate.
Tefeya, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to August. January sees cooler temperatures, with averages around 27°C (80°F), gradually rising to a peak in February and March at 39°C (102°F). The wet season begins in May, culminating in heavy rainfall during July and August, with August recording the highest precipitation at 456 mm (18.0 in). Despite the rain, Tefeya enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in December, which boasts 311 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Tefeya climate.
Tombodu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Temperature ranges from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, with average monthly highs around 25-28°C (77-83°F). The region sees substantial rainfall from May to September, peaking in September with 423 mm (16.7 in), while January remains relatively dry with only 6 mm (0.2 in). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, reaching a high of 296 hours in December. For more details, visit Tombodu climate.
Tombu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. January temperatures range from a mild 16°C (60°F) to a sweltering 36°C (98°F), while precipitation increases sharply from March through August, peaking in September with 425 mm (16.7 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, with February receiving the most at 283 hours, though June through August see a decrease. Overall, the climate is warm and humid, making it ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant, lush environment. For more detailed information, visit Tombu climate.
Wima, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, while average temperatures hover around 26 to 28°C (79 to 83°F) throughout the year. The wet season spans from May to October, with heavy rainfall peaking in August at 478 mm (18.8 in), leading to increased humidity and warmth. In contrast, December sees the least rainfall and the highest sunshine hours, making it more favorable for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Wima climate.
Yengema, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the summer months. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in both February and March. The rainy season peaks in July and August, with precipitation reaching up to 456 mm (18.0 in), while January remains one of the driest months with just 1 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall. Despite the heavy rain during the wet season, Yengema boasts abundant sunshine, especially in December, with a remarkable 311 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Yengema climate.
In summary, the climate of Eastern Province, Sierra Leone, characterized by its tropical monsoon climate, showcases a complex interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration. The region experiences high temperatures and pronounced wet and dry seasons, with significant rainfall from May through October and ample sunlight throughout the year. The elevated UV Index underscores the importance of sun protection during the intense dry months, especially with peak levels occurring in mid-year. Therefore, understanding these climatic factors is essential not only for local communities but also for sustainable development and effective resource management within the province.