The climate of Abidjan
Abidjan, the economic capital of the
Ivory Coast, boasts of a predominant Aw according to the Köppen climate classification. This indicates a tropical wet and dry climate, also recognized as savanna climate. The geographic position of Abidjan allows the city to experience high average temperatures throughout the year.
Throughout the calendar year, Abidjan experiences an average high temperature from 26.3°C (79.3°F) in
August to around 30.6°C (87.1°F) in
April. The average low temperature falls from 26.5°C (79.7°F) in April to 23.4°C (74.1°F) in August. The gentle slide in variance enables a relatively warm and stable climate. Notifications must be made for the relative humidity, reaching highs from 85% in August to a low point of 76% in
January.
Focusing on the rainfall, the city sees major variations across the year. The annual rainfall ranges from 33mm (1.3") in January to a whopping 232mm (9.13") in
June. It's essential to denote that the rainy days are in conjunction with the rainfall, reaching a height of 28.5 days in June and a low of 16.1 days in January.
Interestingly, the phenomenon of sea temperature also sees irregular movements from 24.4°C (75.9°F) in August to 28.9°C (84°F) in April. The daylight hours fluctuate mildly, reaching up to 12.4 hours in June and sinking to 11.8 hours in January and
December. Sunlight hours also witness a clear trend, hitting a spike at 9.2 hours in April and a nadir at 5.5 hours in
July and August.
The best time to visit Abidjan
Considering all factors, the best time to visit
Abidjan would be during the months from
November to
February. During these months, the city experiences less rainfall, lower humidity, and higher sunshine hours, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration. The sea temperature, although a bit lower from 24.8°C (76.6°F) in
September to 27.8°C (82°F) in November, is still suitable for water activities.
The worst time to visit Abidjan
The months from
May to
September can be rather complicated to navigate in
Abidjan. Intense rainfall during this period reaches its pinnacle in
June with an impressive 232mm (9.13"), and the number of rainy days also spikes to 28.5 days in the same month. Coupled with high humidity levels, the overall weather becomes quite uncomfortable for visitors. The sunshine hours plummet to the lowest level during these months, further dimming the appeal.
Spring weather in Abidjan
Though the concept of spring in the Western sense might not apply to the tropical climate of
Abidjan, referring to the three-month period from
March to
May reveals insightful patterns. This period marks rising rainfall with an increase from 54mm (2.13") in March to 107mm (4.21") in May. The temperature treads a stable line of approximate highs from 30°C (86°F) to 30.6°C (87.1°F) and lows from 26.1°C (79°F) to 26.5°C (79.7°F).
Summer weather in Abidjan
Adopting a seasonal lens, and focusing on
June through
August, the pattern of heavy rainfall persists, peaking at 232mm (9.13") in June then promptly drops to 52mm (2.05") by August. The temperature, however, takes a slight dip, with average highs dropping from 29.8°C (85.6°F) in
May to 26.3°C (79.3°F) in August.
Autumn weather in Abidjan
From
September to
November, rainfall sees a steady decline, from 109mm (4.29") in September to a moderate 62mm (2.44") by November, suggesting a drier shift. Contrastingly, temperatures initiate their upward climb after a cool summer, with average highs improving from 26.8°C (80.2°F) in September to 29.1°C (84.4°F) by November.
Winter weather in Abidjan
In "winter",
December to
February,
Abidjan sees a consistent climate trend, with temperatures ranging from highs of 29.9°C (85.8°F) in December to 30.3°C (86.5°F) in February, and lows barely fluctuating, sitting at a comfortable 25.5°C (77.9°F) in December and then rising to 26.3°C (79.3°F) in February. Rainfall drops to the yearly minimum during this period, with 33mm (1.3") registered in
January.
Weather in January
January in
Abidjan exhibits comparatively less rainfall with 33mm (1.3") precipitation occurring over an estimated 16.1 days. The slight drop in temperature from
December adds an element of chill in the air. A substantial level of humidity is in the atmosphere.
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
Abidjan,
February sees a moderate increase in both temperature and rainfall from its preceding month. The levels of relative humidity rise slightly, and the city's cloud cover sees an increase, owing to the increase in precipitation.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March carries on the trend from
February, with a slight rise in temperature and rainfall levels in
Abidjan. The month records its peak rainfall at 54mm (2.13"), collected over an estimated 21.7 days. Stickiness in the air increases owing to higher relative humidity.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Abidjan witnesses similar weather patterns to
March, with only a nominal rise in temperature. The atmospheric pressure remains stable, with extended daylight hours offering plenty of room for outdoor activities. The city's characteristic humidity persists.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Abidjan in
May experiences a substantial rise in rainfall with 107mm (4.21") precipitation, making it distinct compared to earlier months. Temperatures drop marginally. The sea reflects the change with a slight drop in its temperature.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June is the wettest month in
Abidjan, witnessing a dramatic increase in rainfall to 232mm (9.13"), well above the average seen previously this year. A significant change is observed in the lower temperatures and atmospheric pressure rises subtly.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
Abidjan,
July marks the beginning of a decline in rainfall and sees the sea at its coldest of 25.7°C (78.3°F). There is a slight decrease in temperature and the highest recorded atmospheric pressure for the year. The relative humidity reaches its maximum capacity.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August witnesses a reduction in rainfall and temperatures in
Abidjan from its preceding month. The sea remains relatively colder compared to the annual average. The wind speeds display little change, maintaining a pleasant breeze.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Abidjan follows a similar trend to
August, with minor fluctuations in weather parameters. There is an increase in temperature and a light decrease in rainfall recorded at 66mm (2.6") over an estimated 26.5 days. The stable wind speed and atmospheric pressure make for a peaceful environment.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees a rise in both temperature and rainfall in
Abidjan from the previous month. The relative humidity starts to drop as the city moves away from its peak monsoon period. Clear visibility and slightly increased wind speeds make it an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Entering
November,
Abidjan sees a slight decrease in rainfall, lower than that experienced in
October. Temperatures continue their upward climb, making it the warmer month compared to its predecessor. There is a drop in wind speed, resulting in a quiet and calming effect.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Abidjan sees a return to significantly lower rainfalls and moderate temperatures. Recorded rainfall stands at 62mm (2.44") over 20.8 days that is lower than the previous month. The city experiences heightened wind gusts and a slight increase in atmospheric pressure.
Weather in December » [Resources]