October weather forecast
Bansang, The Gambia

October marks the beginning of the much-awaited dryer days, as the effects of the rainy season start to recede in Bansang. A significant drop in rainfall levels from 142mm (5.59") to 37mm (1.46") in just one month signals the exit of the monsoon. The month comes with a blend of warm weather and pleasant breezes. Cloud coverage reduces to 24% and the level of humidity drops to 70%, indicating the onset of dryer conditions. The wind speed sees a decline, adding to the serene atmosphere of the autumn season.

Temperature

In Bansang, the onset of October comes with a modest high-temperature shift, transitioning from September's tropical 32.1°C (89.8°F) to a fiery hot 35.8°C (96.4°F). Bansang undergoes a major shift from daytime highs, averaging a warm 23.5°C (74.3°F) during the night in October.

Heat index

In October, the average heat index is computed to be a blazing hot 53°C (127.4°F). Be on the lookout: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are anticipated. Continued exertion can result in heatstroke.
For clarity, heat index numbers account for light winds and areas under shade. Heat index values may be hiked up by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees under direct sunshine.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. Physical activity, clothing, and metabolic variations are additional factors that impact an individual's perception of temperature. It is essential to realize that direct sunlight can escalate the perceived temperature, increasing the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are especially crucial for babies and toddlers. Children often fail to recognize the requirement to rest and rehydrate. Thirst, being a late symptom of dehydration, underlines the importance of maintaining hydration, especially during ongoing physical activities.
As a reaction to high temperatures, the human body begins to perspire, using the evaporation of sweat to lower its temperature. With higher relative humidity, the rate of evaporation is reduced, resulting in increased heat retention in the body compared to drier air. Temperature imbalances caused by excessive heat retention can trigger heat-related maladies.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in October is 70%.

Rainfall

In October, the rain falls for 11.3 days. Throughout October, 37mm (1.46") of precipitation is accumulated. In Bansang, during the entire year, the rain falls for 107.8 days and collects up to 540mm (21.26") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Bansang, the average length of the day in October is 11h and 50min.
On the first day of October in Bansang, The Gambia, sunrise is at 06:47 and sunset at 18:48. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:52 and sunset at 18:31 GMT.

Sunshine

In October, the average sunshine in Bansang is 9.5h.

UV index

The average daily maximum UV index in October is 7. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: The maximum daily UV index, 7 in October, converts into the following recommendations:
Avoid excessive sunlight. Those with lighter skin may experience burning in less than 20 minutes. Avoid direct Sun exposure and stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is most intense, noting that not all shade structures offer full protection. Clothes that are both tight-knit and comfortably loose are prime choices for sun protection.