January weather forecast
Cotonou, Benin

As the first month of the year arrives in Cotonou, Benin, the climatological forecast promises a medley of warm temperatures and moderate rainfall. The weather in January, with respect to its preceding and succeeding months, demonstrates reasonably high temperatures, making it one of the warmer months. Notably, January records the highest daylight hours (11.8 hours) matched with satisfactory sunshine of 6.9 hours on average. The UV index for this month reaches 11 units, suggesting that all necessary precautions should be taken to safeguard from harmful ultraviolet radiation. January receives a low amount of rainfall with a measurement of 9mm (0.35"), implying a relatively drier start to the year.

Temperature

January brings an average high-temperature of a still tropical 30.8°C (87.4°F), aligning with the conditions of the preceding month. Nighttime temperatures in January average to a moderately hot 23.8°C (74.8°F).

Heat index

The heat index in January is calculated to be a blisteringly hot 40°C (104°F). Greater preventive actions are needed, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are likely. Persistent activity could provoke heatstroke.
Metrics for the heat index primarily focus on shaded spots and light wind conditions. The presence of direct sunlight can raise the heat index values by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', blends air temperature and moisture content to represent the felt temperature to humans. This effect is subjective, differing among individuals based on their physical activity and perception of heat, which can be influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variances. When directly under the sun, the weather's impact can intensify, possibly boosting the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Children usually face more risks than adults as their ability to sweat is less. Additionally, their larger skin surface in relation to their petite bodies and higher heat output due to their activities increases their vulnerability.
Perspiration is the human body's physiological response to high temperatures and is an attempt to lower body temperature through evaporation of sweat. A higher relative humidity affects normal body cooling by reducing the evaporation rate, subsequently lowering the rate at which the body cools and increasing the perception of heat. If heat absorption exceeds the body's cooling ability, body temperature can elevate, resulting in potential thermal illnesses.

Humidity

In Cotonou, the average relative humidity in January is 79%.

Rainfall

January is the month with the least rainfall in Cotonou. Rain falls for 1 days and accumulates 9mm (0.35") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In January, the average sea temperature is 27°C (80.6°F).
Note: For swimming, diving, or other water activities, temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) provide the most enjoyable experience for extended periods without discomfort.

Daylight

In January, the average length of the day is 11h and 48min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 07:00 and sunset at 18:46. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 07:08 and sunset at 18:59 WAT.

Sunshine

In Cotonou, Benin, the average sunshine in January is 6.9h.

UV index

The average daily maximum UV index in January is 11. A UV Index of 11, and more, symbolizes an ultimate health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: A maximum UV index of 11 in January translates into the following recommendations:
Employ all critical precautions. Guarding against sun damage is essential. Avoid direct Sun exposure and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak, but keep in mind that not all shade structures provide complete protection. A wide-brimmed hat is a staple for defending the face, eyes, ears, and neck from the Sun. A sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be used liberally and reapplied frequently on cloudy days, especially after swimming or an outdoor workout. Be wary! Reflections from sand and water make UV radiation more intense.