The climate of Douala
Bearing the predominant climate type of Am under the Köppen climate classification,
Douala in
Cameroon experiences a Tropical Monsoon climate. Geographically lying at the heart of Africa, Douala's climate reflects its tropical characteristics with consistent high humidity, significant rainfall, and hot temperatures characterized by narrow variability throughout the year.
Temperatures display a narrow range from 23.4°C (74.1°F) in
July to a high of 33.7°C (92.7°F) in
February. Even the coolest months of
June and July do not dip below 27.9°C (82.2°F), indicating a year-round warm climate. Rainfall appears to be a more variable factor, with the amount of precipitation fluctuating from 23mm (0.91") in
December to a peak of 249mm (9.8") in July. The number of rainfall days varies correspondingly, reaching the maximum count of 28 in July and decreasing to 14.3 in December.
A typical aspect of Douala's weather pattern is its relative cloudiness and humidity levels, peaking during the rainy season, from June to
September. In this period, relative humidity values peak at 86% in July while cloud cover is most extensive, reaching 65% in June. As a whole, it is evident that Douala's weather conditions are dominantly warm and humid, marked by a significant rainy season in the middle of the year.
The best time to visit Douala
Considering the climate parameters, the most conducive period to visit
Douala would be from
November to
March. During these months, the city presents milder weather conditions compared to other periods of the year. Rainfall is considerably less, dropping to as low as 23mm (0.91") in
December, and the average count of rainfall days is at its lowest, from 14.3 days in December to 21.2 days in November. This means less likelihood of travel plans being disrupted by heavy precipitation or thunderstorms. Moreover, the relative humidity drops to lower values ranging between 72% and 78%, resulting in more comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Douala
The months stretching from
June to
September would be less optimal for visits to
Douala, primarily due to the pronounced rainy season and associated high humidity levels. The period shows the peak of precipitation, climaxing at 249mm (9.8") in
July, coupled with the highest number of rainfall days, reaching 28 days in July. Relative humidity values are also at their annual high, from 83% in June to 86% in July. In addition, cloud coverage is at its most extensive, curtailing the amount of sunshine received.
Spring weather in Douala
Douala does not have a typical spring season due to its tropical climate, but
March to
May can be considered as the equivalent period. In these months, average temperatures range from 32.8°C (91°F) in
April to 33.7°C (92.7°F) in March, continuing the city's trend of high year-round warmth. Rainfall begins to increase, moving from 72mm (2.83") in March to 121mm (4.76") in May, hinting at the onset of the rainy season. Consequently, the relative humidity levels rise, and cloud coverage becomes more extensive, cutting back on hours of sunshine.
Summer weather in Douala
The city's tropical monsoon climate does not include a typical summer season, but for reference, this can correspond to the months of
June to
August. This period sees some of the lowest temperatures, with averages declining from 29.8°C (85.6°F) in June to 27.9°C (82.2°F) in August. However, these temperatures are still quite high, indicating a warm climate throughout what can be referred to as
Douala's summer. Rainfall is at its peak, with the maximum value of 249mm (9.8") in
July. The number of rainfall days is also at its highest, and relative humidity sees its annual maximum. This period would usually be the least sunny part of the year, with less sunshine due to increased cloud coverage.
Autumn weather in Douala
In reference to an autumn period,
September to
November can be considered as such for
Douala. A gradual decline in rainfall marks this phase, with precipitation dropping from 165mm (6.5") in September to 77mm (3.03") in November. Average temperatures begin to rise during this period, moving from 28.7°C (83.7°F) in September to 31.6°C (88.9°F) in November. The trend of decreasing humidity and cloud coverage allows for more sunshine hours and generally more pleasant weather conditions.
Winter weather in Douala
The period from
December to
February, though not experiencing a traditional winter, brings about the city's driest and sunniest conditions. Rainfall is at its annual minimum, with as little as 23mm (0.91") in December. Temperatures remain high but consistent, fluctuating marginally from 31.6°C (88.9°F) in
January to the annual high of 33.7°C (92.7°F) in February. Relative humidity and cloud cover decrease significantly, enhancing sunshine hours and creating better conditions for outdoor activities.
Weather in January
As
Douala commences the year with
January, the residents brace themselves for a relatively dry and sunny period. With the lowest rainfall of 25mm (0.98") recorded this month, it's evident that January in Douala is more about sun tanning and less about umbrellas.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Douala, in
February, starts to deviate from the sunniness of
January, as it welcomes brief periods of rain. The increase in rainfall in Douala comes swiftly following the mildness of January's relatively dry climate. There is an increase in pressure in the atmosphere as well, potentially leading to mildly stuffy weather conditions.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March showcases a major shift in
Douala's weather from a relatively warm atmosphere to a wetter climate. The weather during March not only experiences a significant amount of rainfall, but it also signposts the commencement of the rainy season in Douala.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
While residents of
Douala are trying to accustom themselves with
March's substantial rainfall,
April splashes in with an even greater volume of precipitation. However, it's not just about the rain, as April also presents an increased level of humidity, making the air feel heavier.
Weather in April »Weather in May
The month of
May, in
Douala, distinctively marks the midpoint of rainfall accumulation throughout the year. So, while shorts and shades might be the norm dressing in earlier months, they are replaced by raincoats and umbrellas in May.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Douala offers no respite from the previous month's deluge. Instead, it ramps up the ante by featuring the second highest monthly average rainfall. It's not just the residents who feel the impact of the heightened rainfall, but also the sea as its temperature goes on a downward trend.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, in
Douala, is best known for its record-breaking precipitation. July's rain surpasses the previous months, reaching its peak for the year, thereby creating a watershed for the resident city dwellers. Though the high volume of rain affects outdoor activities, visibility remains unaffected.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August ushers in the slow departure of the rainy season in
Douala. Following
July's waterlogged conditions, August brings some relief. There's still frequent rainfall, but not the deluge experienced in July. Also, the sea starts to rid itself of the chill, enticing beachgoers once again.
Weather in August » Weather in September
By
September,
Douala begins to reclaim its inherent warmth as the rainy season concludes. Both rainfall frequency and volume decrease. A gradual increase in sunlight brings a mild pleasantness to the otherwise humid atmosphere.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October translates to more dry days and increased sunshine for
Douala. The rainfall continues its declining trend from
September, much to the delight of residents. However, the humidity level remains relatively high, causing noticeable stuffiness in the atmosphere.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Douala heralds a significant reduction in precipitation. This month is a harbinger of more sunshine and the commencement of the dry season. Apart from the decline in rainfall, a noticeable drop in both humidity and cloud cover is observed.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings the onset of
Douala's dry season with a stark dip in rainfall. The clear skies promote outdoor activities as the rain squalls of the previous months become a distant memory. However, the persistently high humidity is a reminder of Douala's typical tropical climate.
Weather in December » [Resources]