January weather forecast
Douala, Cameroon

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. But the weather is not too harsh; there's a general coolness stemming from the wind, at a relatively mild pace. However, a noticeable increase in humidity is observed towards the end of the month. Comparatively, the weather in January is indeed more pleasant and less extreme than what is experienced in February.

Temperature

Temperatures reach their maximum during January and February, recording an average high-temperature of 33.7°C (92.7°F).

Heat index

The heat index value for January is estimated at a burning hot 47°C (116.6°F). Notice: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely. Continued strenuous activity might lead to heatstroke.
It is emphasized that the heat index's values are meant for shaded zones with mild winds. Exposure to the sun directly might heighten the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is derived by integrating air temperature with the existing relative humidity to express the perceived warmth. Additional elements including metabolic differences, the level of physical activity, and attire have a role in shaping the individual's temperature perception. One should be aware that direct sunshine can amplify the perceived temperature, raising the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely vital to babies and toddlers. Children typically face more danger than adults as their sweat production is usually lower. Additionally, the bigger skin surface compared to their small size and the increased heat due to their activeness exacerbate the risk.
Perspiration is the body's default response to elevated temperatures, as it promotes the evaporation of sweat to achieve cooling. In circumstances of high air temperature and humidity (high heat index), the body's perspiration is restricted, heightening the feeling of warmth. As the body accumulates more heat than it can release, body temperature goes up, increasing the risk of heat-related health issues.

Humidity

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 72%, are the least humid months.

Rainfall

In Douala, in January, it is raining for 15 days, with typically 25mm (0.98") of accumulated precipitation. In Douala, during the entire year, the rain falls for 272.8 days and collects up to 1382mm (54.41") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

In January, the average sea temperature in Douala is 27.7°C (81.9°F).
Note: In water temperatures ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), activities such as swimming and diving become highly pleasurable for long durations.

Daylight

In January, the average length of the day in Douala, Cameroon, is 11h and 55min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:27 and sunset at 18:21. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 06:35 and sunset at 18:32 WAT.

Sunshine

In Douala, the average sunshine in January is 9.3h.

UV index

January through May, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: The daily high UV index of 7 during January translates into the following recommendations:
Evade overexposure. Individuals with fair skin risk burning in under 20 minutes. Stay out of direct sunlight and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest, but remember that shade devices may not offer full sun protection. Sun protection is enhanced with clothing that boasts a tight weave yet offers a loose fit. Be wary! Reflections from sand and water make UV radiation more intense.