Climate and monthly weather forecastParakou, Benin

The climate of Parakou

Positioned within the Köppen climate zone marked Aw, Parakou in Benin, experiences a unique blend of seasonal weather events classified under the title Tropical wet and dry or savanna. Careful examination of the climatological data showcases a broad array of fluctuations in weather conditions throughout the year.

Temperature highs range from a sweltering 39.2°C (102.6°F) in March down to a cooler 28.4°C (83.1°F) in August, painting a picture of the tropical nature of the climate. In contrast, the temperature lows see a minor variation, with the coldest night temperatures recorded at 18.7°C (65.7°F) in January and the warmest, 24.8°C (76.6°F), in April.

One striking feature of Parakou's weather pattern is the distinct shift in rainfall and humidity. An impactful wet season emerges from April to September, peaking in August with a substantial total of 140mm (5.51") of rain falling over 25 days. This period also sees relative humidity levels spike to a humid 87%.

Conversely, a substantial drop in precipitation occurs from November to February, including a completely dry December. During this period, the relative humidity falls dramatically, reaching as low as 22% in January.

The best time to visit Parakou

The ideal time to visit Parakou primarily depends on your tolerance for heat and rainfall. If a preference lies with less rainfall and lower humidity, the months of November to February constitute the optimal period. The lower humidity levels accompanying these months allow for clear skies and unobstructed visibility, while this phase also delivers temperatures that remain consistent, providing a comfortable climate for exploration.

The worst time to visit Parakou

Based on climatological data, the least favourable time to visit Parakou is from July to September. This period is characterized by the wet season with high precipitation levels, reaching up to 140mm (5.51") in August. The frequent showers can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities significantly. Additionally, the high humidity levels that accompany the rainy season make the heat feel more intense and may lead to discomfort for some visitors.

Spring weather in Parakou

In the tropical savanna climate of Parakou, traditional seasons as understood in temperate regions do not apply. Here, March to May is characterized by increasing temperatures peaking at 39.2°C (102.6°F) in March, accompanied by rising humidity and rainfall. Rainfall sees a significant rise from the 4mm (0.16") in February to 60mm (2.36") in April - a clear onset of the wet season.

Summer weather in Parakou

The period of June to August sees the height of the rainy season in Parakou. Rainfall scales up from 55mm (2.17") in June to its peak at 140mm (5.51") in August, leading to increased humidity reaching up to 87%. Temperature highs oscillate between 35.3°C (95.5°F) and 28.4°C (83.1°F) during this period, while the lows vary from 24.2°C (75.6°F) to 21.5°C (70.7°F).

Autumn weather in Parakou

In the context of Parakou, the Autumn season, stretching from September to November, witnesses a slow recession of the wet season. Rainfall declines from 100mm (3.94") in September to a minor 2mm (0.08") by November, bringing with it a drop in humidity levels from 85% to 47%. Temperatures during this period remain consistently high, with the highest temperature recorded at 35°C (95°F) in November.

Winter weather in Parakou

Although the term 'winter' may not intuitively align with Parakou's tropical climate, December through February sees a change in weather patterns. Characterized by the driest conditions of the year, December experiences no rainfall, while January and February see a minor 1mm (0.04") and 4mm (0.16") respectively. The temperatures during this time still remain relatively high, ranging between highs of 36.8°C (98.2°F) in December to 32.8°C (91°F) in February, and lows of 20°C (68°F) in December to 21.8°C (71.2°F) in February.

Weather in January

During the first month of the year, the city of Parakou experiences a different climate from its neighboring months. January becomes a gentle introduction to the warmer season in Parakou. With afternoon highs reaching up to 36.8°C (98.2°F) and evening lows at 18.7°C (65.7°F), clear skies prevail, making it beneficial for outdoor activities. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Notably sunnier than January, February in Parakou is characterized by slightly increased temperatures. With an average relative humidity of 32%, this month is still less humid than the months that follow. The city sees an increase in rainfall, 4mm (0.16") approximately, indicating an early onset of the wet season. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The transition from dry to wet season becomes more evident in March. Parakou witnesses a significant rise in both temperatures and rainfall in March. Temperatures dwell between 23.8°C (74.8°F) at night to as high as 39.2°C (102.6°F) during daytime. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April signifies the true beginning of the wet season in Parakou. It brings around a marked increase in rainfall, registering approximately 60mm (2.36"). Even with the damp conditions, humidity levels are increased, reaching a relative measure of 54%. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In contrast with April, May shows a continuation of the rainy season trend, but with a slight dip in temperatures. Recordings show a decline from the highs of April, ranging from a warm 24.2°C (75.6°F) at night to a toasty 35.3°C (95.5°F) during the day. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June, a month typically characterized by abundant rainfall, records an average of 55mm (2.17") in Parakou. The city's weather in June is largely influenced by daytime high temperatures peaking at 32.8°C (91°F) and nighttime lows at 22.8°C (73°F). Weather in June »

Weather in July

The month of July brings the apex of the wet season in Parakou. Rainfall shoots up to a staggering 99mm (3.9"), the city's highest amount for the year, coupled with soaring humidity levels at 82%. The temperatures oscillate between a bearable 29.8°C (85.6°F) during the day and a cooler 21.8°C (71.2°F) during the night. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As residents bade goodbye to July, August ushers in almost similar weather patterns. Rainfall levels peak at an average of 140mm (5.51"), which is regarded as the year's maximum. Corresponding to the excessive rainfall, temperatures slightly decrease to a range of 28.4°C (83.1°F) during the day and 21.5°C (70.7°F) at night. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The arrival of September heralds a shift in Parakou's climatic conditions. Notably, rainfall levels begin to drop, with an average of 100mm (3.94"). An important highlight of September remains the relative humidity level of 85%, albeit slightly lower than August. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October is a transition month in Parakou, signaling the departure of the wet season and heralding the onset of the dry season. With a decrease in rainfall to about 67mm (2.64"), it becomes clear that the rainy season is indeed winding down. Weather in October »

Weather in November

In November, Parakou shifts fully into the dry season. November also records one of the lowest rainfall measurements of the year, averaging at 2mm (0.08"). With more sunlight hours, usually spanning 9.9 hours in a day, and relative humidity retreating to 47%, the city's anticipation of the dry season is rewarded. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Finally arriving at the year's end, December in Parakou boasts of essentially dry conditions, with no recorded rainfall. With lower temperatures, swinging between 20°C (68°F) and 35.5°C (95.9°F), this month ensures a mild atmosphere. Weather in December »