Last updated: January 18, 2025
The Southern Province of Sierra Leone is characterized by its tropical savanna climate (Köppen-Geiger classification: Am), which contributes to a unique ecological landscape. Temperatures in this region exhibit significant variation throughout the year, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) recorded in January and soaring to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in March. The average temperature hovers around 26°C (79°F), creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that is both conducive to biodiversity and a vital component of the local economy reliant on agriculture and tourism.
Temperature patterns in Southern Province, Sierra Leone, reveal distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The coldest month is January, with minimum temperatures dipping to 17°C (63°F), while March ushers in the hottest temperatures, peaking at 40°C (105°F). February maintains warmth as the average temperature reaches 28°C (82°F), while April and May see slight cooling with averages of 27°C (82°F), accompanied by maximum temperatures decreasing from 39°C (103°F) in February to 36°C (96°F) in May. The onset of the rainy season during the summer months of June through August brings consistently cooler conditions, with average temperatures stabilizing around 25°C (77°F) and maximums remaining around 33°C (92°F). The year concludes with a gradual return to warmer weather in December, where temperatures average 26°C (80°F), effectively framing a year of notable climatic variation centered around the dry and wet seasons.
In the Southern Province of Sierra Leone, Bo experiences a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January, peaking at 40°C (104°F) in March, while Largo and Sumbuya start with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January, with maximums of 39°C (103°F) and 39°C (102°F) respectively in March. For more details, check the monthly temperatures in Bo here, in Largo here, and in Sumbuya here.
Precipitation in Southern Province, Sierra Leone, exhibits a remarkable seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the wet season from May to September. Starting with relatively low levels in January at 20 mm (0.8 in), precipitation gradually increases through February and March, culminating in heavy rains during the peak months of June, July, and August. June records a staggering 455 mm (17.9 in), transitioning to 543 mm (21.4 in) in July and reaching a high of 579 mm (22.8 in) in August, illustrating the intensity and consistency of rainfall during this period.
The rainy season not only brings significant accumulation but also an increase in the number of rainy days, peaking in July with 30 days of precipitation. In contrast, the dry season experiences lower rainfall, with October seeing 305 mm (12.0 in), followed by a sharp drop to 52 mm (2.0 in) in December. The pattern highlights not only the contrast between the wet and dry seasons but also the extent to which rainfall influences the local climate and ecosystems, providing essential moisture that supports agriculture and local biodiversity throughout the region.
In Southern Province, Sierra Leone, sunshine duration exhibits notable seasonal trends that reflect the region's climatic patterns. The year begins with healthy sunshine, reaching 249 hours in January, which gradually increases through the following months. February and March show a peak in sunshine, with 282 hours and 289 hours respectively, making them some of the brightest months of the year. As the wet season approaches in April and May, there is a slight decrease in sunshine hours to 268 hours and 260 hours, indicating the gradual transition toward the rainy period.
The onset of the rainy season in June marks a significant decline in sunshine, dipping to just 226 hours in June and continuing to decline through July and August, when only 220 hours and 200 hours of sunlight are recorded. This reduction persists as cloud cover increases, significantly influencing local weather patterns. However, as the year progresses into the drier months, a resurgence of sunlight is observed, with December shining the brightest at 303 hours. This analysis underscores a clear seasonal pattern where the dry season boasts more sunshine, while the wet season presents challenges with reduced sunlight hours, ultimately shaping the region's ecological and agricultural dynamics.
The UV Index in Southern Province, Sierra Leone, consistently reflects an extreme exposure risk throughout most of the year, particularly from January to September. During this period, the UV Index remains predominantly in the range of 11 to 13, indicating a high potential for skin damage with unprotected sun exposure. The peak UV Index of 13 occurs in April and throughout the summer months, suggesting that residents and visitors must take necessary precautions, such as wearing adequate sun protection, limiting outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, and seeking shade to mitigate the risk of sunburn, which can occur in as little as 10 minutes.
As the year transitions into the later months, a slight decrease in the UV Index is observed. In October, it drops to 12, followed by 10 in November and December, where the exposure category shifts to very high with a burn time of 15 minutes. While the UV Index decreases slightly during these months, the risk remains significant, emphasizing the importance of continued sun safety measures. Overall, the data highlights the necessity for awareness regarding UV radiation, particularly during the height of the dry season when its intensity can be most damaging.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Southern Province, Sierra Leone, reveals a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor fluctuations between months. January and February experience about 11 hours of daylight, providing a consistent starting point as the year begins. The month of March marks a gradual transition, with daylight extending to 12 hours, where it remains steady for the following six months. This consistent twelve-hour daylight period from March through September promotes a balanced environment for both human activities and natural ecosystems, supporting agriculture and daily life in the region.
As the year approaches its end, daylight duration begins to contract once again, with October returning to 11 hours and continuing through November and December. This shift underscores the region’s relatively equatorial position, where daylight length remains fairly constant year-round compared to higher latitudes. The predictable pattern of daylight duration ensures that the community can synchronize agricultural practices and daily routines, while also fostering a lifestyle deeply connected to the natural rhythms of the environment.
Baiima, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a peak of 40°C (104°F) in March, with an overall average temperature around 28°C (82°F). The region sees the most precipitation from May to August, with rainfall peaking at 546 mm (21.5 in) in August. Despite the heavy rains, sunlight is abundant, particularly in the dry months of January and February, which receive up to 283 hours of sunshine. For more details on the climate, visit Baiima climate.
Baoma, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (104°F) in March, with averages around 28°C (82°F). The rainy season peaks between May and August, with July receiving the highest precipitation at 457 mm (18.0 in). Despite the rainfall, the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in February, March, and December, which see over 280 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Baoma climate.
Bo, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. January sees minimum temperatures of 18°C (65°F) and averages peaking at 28°C (82°F), while temperatures rise from February to April, averaging around 29°C (84°F) and reaching maximums of 39°C (103°F). The rainy season extends from May to August, with precipitation peaking in August at 546 mm (21.5 in) and monthly sunshine hours declining to around 198 hours. Despite the rains, the dry months of November to February offer more sunshine, contributing to a warm and humid environment. For more details, visit Bo climate.
Bomi, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in the cooler months of June to August, to highs of 37°C (99°F) in March. Rainfall is significant, particularly from May to July, with July receiving the highest precipitation at 593 mm (23.4 in). Despite the wet season, sunshine is abundant, peaking at 302 hours in December. For more detailed information, visit Bomi climate.
Bonthe, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Average monthly temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in July and August to a peak of 28°C (82°F) in April and March. The rainy season spans from May to October, with the highest precipitation recorded in July (714 mm or 28.1 in). Notably, Bonthe enjoys abundant sunshine in most months, particularly in December with 314 hours. For more details, visit Bonthe climate.
Bumpe, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the wet season from May to August. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, with the coolest months being December and January. Rainfall peaks in August with 609 mm (24.0 in), while January receives the least at just 11 mm (0.4 in). Sunshine is abundant, with December enjoying the most hours at 304, making Bumpe a region with vibrant weather patterns throughout the year. For more details, visit Bumpe climate.
Foindu, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in March, averaging around 26-28°C (79-82°F) during most months. The rainy season peaks from May to September, with July receiving the highest precipitation of 515 mm (20.3 in). Despite the heavy rain, sunshine hours remain considerable, particularly in the drier months from November to February, which boast over 250 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Foindu climate.
The climate in Gandorhun, Sierra Leone, is characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, especially during the wet season from May to October. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in March. Precipitation peaks in September with over 600 mm (24.2 in), while January sees the least rainfall at 29 mm (1.1 in). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with December enjoying the most hours at 302. For more information, visit Gandorhun climate.
The climate in Gbewebu, Sierra Leone, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to September. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in March, with the highest monthly rainfall peaking at 575 mm (22.6 in) in September. The region experiences the most sunshine in December with 302 hours, while the wettest months, July and August, receive over 500 mm of precipitation. For a detailed overview, visit Gbewebu climate.
Koribundu, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to September. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, with an overall average temperature of around 26°C (79°F). Precipitation peaks during the rainy season, with July recording the highest rainfall at 498 mm (19.6 in). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, peaking in December with 302 hours, indicating a pattern of less sunlight during the wettest months. For more details, visit Koribundu climate.
Largo, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) in January to a maximum of 39°C (103°F) in March, with an average hovering around 28°C (82°F). The rainy season spans from May to August, peaking in August with 682 mm (26.9 in) of precipitation, while December is the driest month with only 30 mm (1.2 in). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with the highest in February at 282 hours, contrasting with just 193 hours in August. For more detailed information, visit Largo climate.
The climate in Mamboma, Sierra Leone, is characterized by high temperatures and significant seasonal rainfall. January to March sees maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F), while June to August is the wettest period, with precipitation peaking at 546 mm (21.5 in) in August. The average annual temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F), with December enjoying the most sunshine at 301 hours. For more detailed information, visit Mamboma climate.
Mogbwemo, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in March. The wet season peaks from May to September, with July and August recording over 600 mm of precipitation. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly from February to March, providing up to 307 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate data, visit Mogbwemo climate.
Moyamba, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and substantial rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) during the hottest months, with an average around 27°C (81°F). The wettest months are from May to August, with July seeing the highest precipitation at 596 mm (23.5 in). Despite the heavy rains, Moyamba enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in February and March, with over 295 hours of sunlight during those months. For more details, visit Moyamba climate.
Palima, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate marked by high temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from May to September. January to March witness the highest temperatures, reaching a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in March, while the cooler months, like July and August, average around 24°C (76°F). Rainfall peaks in July and August, with over 500 mm (19.9 in) during those months. Despite heavy precipitation, Palima enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, especially in December, which boasts 301 hours. For more details, visit Palima climate.
Potoru, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly during the wet season from May to October. Average temperatures range from a mild 19°C (66°F) in January to a peak of about 39°C (102°F) in March, while maximum temperatures generally remain in the 30s°C. The region receives heavy rainfall, especially in July and September, with peaks exceeding 500 mm (20 in) during these months. Sunshine hours are plentiful, reaching up to 302 hours in December, providing a contrast to the wet season. For more details, visit Potoru climate.
Pujehun, 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 20°C (68°F) in January to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in March, with overall averages between 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (82°F). The rainy season peaks in July and September, recording over 600 mm (24 inches) of precipitation, while the dry months generally receive less than 100 mm (4 inches). Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with December boasting the highest at 302 hours. For more details, visit Pujehun climate.
The climate in Rotifunk, Sierra Leone is characterized by a tropical arrangement with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in January to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in the warmer months. Precipitation peaks from May to August, with July recording the highest rainfall at 683 mm (26.9 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in March and December, with over 300 hours recorded. For more detailed information, visit Rotifunk climate.
The climate in Serabu, Sierra Leone, is characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly from May to October. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F), with peak highs reaching up to 39°C (102°F) in March. Rainfall begins to intensify in April, culminating in the wettest months of July and August, where precipitation can exceed 588 mm (23.1 in). Despite the heavy rains, sunshine is abundant, especially in the first quarter of the year, with January to March offering over 250 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed information, visit Serabu climate.
Sumbuya, Sierra Leone, experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, especially from May to September. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F) throughout the year, with maximum values peaking at 39°C (102°F) in March. The rainy season sees heavy precipitation, peaking in September with 651 mm (25.6 in), while drier months like January receive only 20 mm (0.8 in). Despite the rain, sunshine is abundant, particularly in the drier months of January to March, with over 250 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed information, visit Sumbuya climate.
The climate in Tongole, Sierra Leone, is characterized by a warm temperature range, with average monthly highs between 25°C (77°F) and 37°C (99°F). The wet season, peaking in June through September, experiences significant rainfall, with August recording up to 596 mm (23.4 in). In contrast, the driest months, January and December, see much lower precipitation, around 32 mm (1.3 in) and 74 mm (2.9 in), respectively. Despite the heavy rains, Tongole enjoys substantial sunshine, with February standing out at 286 hours. For more details, visit Tongole climate.
Zimmi, Sierra Leone experiences a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall. The warmest months are March and April, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 38°C (100°F), while the coolest month, January, has an average temperature of 26°C (80°F). Rainfall peaks during the rainy season from May to August, with July receiving the most precipitation at 564 mm (22.2 in). Despite the heavy rains, Zimmi enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in December with 283 hours. For more details, visit Zimmi climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Southern Province, Sierra Leone, exhibits a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours, all of which significantly influence the region's ecosystem and livelihoods. The tropical savanna climate, characterized by its warm temperatures and defined wet and dry seasons, creates conditions that are both favorable and challenging for agriculture and local communities. With extreme UV exposure persisting most of the year and a consistent daylight duration, residents are called to adopt sun safety practices and efficient agricultural strategies to thrive amidst these climatic variations. Understanding these patterns is essential for promoting sustainable development and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions, ensuring that the region remains vibrant and productive for generations to come.