October weather forecast
Cotonou, Benin

October sees a shift in Cotonou’s weather towards a dry climate, although the rainfall does see a slight increase from the previous month, reaching 127mm (5"). The daylight duration shortens further to 12 hours, while the daily sunshine duration lengthens to 6.7 hours. There is a steady increase noted in both air and sea temperatures; however, the UV index stays consistent at 12 units. These elements combine to create a hot and sunny, yet slightly wet climate for the month of October.

Temperature

Cotonou, Benin, experiences an average high-temperature of a still warm 29.6°C (85.3°F) in October, marking an insignificant shift from 28.4°C (83.1°F) in September. An average temperature of 23.8°C (74.8°F) marks the nights in October.

Heat index

October's heat index is calculated to be a torrid 37°C (98.6°F). Extra safeguards are necessary to prevent heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Prolonged activity might cause heatstroke.
Note that heat index values are valued for light wind and location in the shade. The heat index has the potential to rise by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sunshine exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'apparent temperature', is a value derived by merging air temperature with the humidity to convey how the climate feels. A person's impression of weather can be shaped by many aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and levels of physical activity. Being under direct sunshine can magnify the heat experience, possibly pushing up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. Kids are generally in more danger than adults because they perspire less. Their large skin surface area compared to their small bodies and the excessive heat due to their actions raises their risk.
Sweat evaporation plays a crucial role in cooling the human body, a process enabled by perspiration. When there is abundant moisture in the air, the body's cooling through the evaporation process becomes less effective, leading to the sensation of overheating. Overheating and dehydration threats arise when heat gain goes beyond what the body can comfortably shed.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in October is 82%.

Rainfall

In Cotonou, during October, the rain falls for 8 days and regularly aggregates up to 127mm (5") of precipitation. In Cotonou, during the entire year, the rain falls for 75 days and collects up to 1308mm (51.5") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In October, the average sea temperature is 27°C (80.6°F).
Note: For activities in the water such as swimming or diving, temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are considered optimal for prolonged enjoyment without discomfort.

Daylight

In Cotonou, the average length of the day in October is 11h and 59min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:38 and sunset at 18:41. On the last day of October, sunrise is at 06:37 and sunset at 18:31 WAT.

Sunshine

In October, the average sunshine is 6.7h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are February through May, August through October, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: A maximum high daily UV index of 12 during October translates into the following directions:
Practice all-important precautions. Light skin people may get burned in less than 5 minutes. 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. Arm yourself against UV rays' harm with protective apparel and UV-filtering shades. Directly after swimming or an outdoor workout, generously apply and reapply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Be wary! Reflections from sand and water make UV radiation more intense.