December weather forecast
Cotonou, Benin

Capping off the calendar year, December in Cotonou mirrors many of the same climates found in November, yet with an even further reduction in rainfall. A noteworthy characteristic of the final month is a significant decrease of total rainfall, down to 20mm (0.79"), marking it as the driest month of the year. The daylight duration remains constant at 11.8 hours, with slightly less sunshine duration than November of around 7.2 hours. Both air and sea temperatures are kept relatively stable during this month, perfectly aligning with the festive season. The UV index drops to 10 units, drawing the year to a close on a milder note.

Temperature

Cotonou, Benin, notes an average high-temperature of a still hot 30.8°C (87.4°F) in December, hardly diverging from November. Cotonou observes an average low-temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F) during December.

Heat index

During December, the heat index is computed to be a blisteringly hot 41°C (105.8°F). Take greater precautions, heat exhaustion and heat cramps may be expected. Heatstroke could result from lengthy activity.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. Direct sunlight might cause an increase of up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the heat index.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is what the temperature feels like to the human body when the air temperature is combined with the relative humidity. The impression of weather on a person can be swayed by additional aspects, including metabolic variations, pregnancy, and activity levels. When in direct sunlight, one should be cautious as it can raise the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Young ones often disregard the necessity to rest and hydrate. Thirst usually indicates advanced dehydration - hence, it is key to stay hydrated, particularly during ongoing physical activities.
The process of perspiration is vital for the human body to get rid of excess warmth by allowing sweat to evaporate. Elevated relative humidity diminishes evaporation, thereby reducing the body's ability to shed heat and creating a feeling of being too warm. When the body's heat gain surpasses its removal capacity, body temperature starts to climb, leading to potential heat-related ailments.

Humidity

In December, the average relative humidity in Cotonou is 81%.

Rainfall

In Cotonou, Benin, in December, during 2 rainfall days, 20mm (0.79") of precipitation is typically accumulated. Throughout the year, in Cotonou, there are 75 rainfall days, and 1308mm (51.5") of precipitation is accumulated.

Sea temperature

In December, the average sea temperature in Cotonou is 28°C (82.4°F).
Note: For any water activity, surface water temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are deemed perfect and extremely pleasing for enduring enjoyment.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year in Cotonou, with an average of 11h and 48min of daylight.
On the first day of December in Cotonou, sunrise is at 06:46 and sunset at 18:33. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 07:00 and sunset at 18:46 WAT.

Sunshine

In Cotonou, the average sunshine in December is 7.2h.

UV index

December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 10. A UV Index of 8 to 10 symbolizes a very high threat to health from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index, 10 during December, leads to the following recommendations:
Take special precautions, as unprotected skin can be damaged and can burn quickly. Avoid direct exposure to the Sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the peak period for UV radiation, noting that objects like parasols or canopies might not offer complete sun protection. For a sun-safe wardrobe, go for clothes that are tightly woven and generously sized. Sunscreen with a sun protection factor of no less than 30 should be used liberally and reapplied frequently on overcast days, including after every swim or outdoor activity. Take warning! Reflective sand and water surfaces intensify the Sun's UV rays.