The climate of Port-Gentil
According to the Köppen climate classification,
Port-Gentil,
Gabon harbors a Tropical wet and dry climate, also known as Aw. This coastal town lies on the west coast of the country, nestling itself next to the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in a pattern of consistent monthly high temperatures. Observations indicate relatively steady temperatures, with monthly average highs fluctuating between 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) and lows of 22.1°C (71.8°F) to 26.9°C (80.4°F).
One peculiar aspect to note about the weather is the relatively high humidity throughout the year. Data indicates a relative humidity value of 79% to 84% every month, showing consistent moisture in the air. Similarly, cloud coverage remains relatively constant, with an increase from around 38% to 63%, adding to the wet appeal of this tropical locale.
Rainfall in Port-Gentil exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with the city experiencing a more pronounced wet season. The downpour stretches its maximum from
October to
January with the heaviest precipitation at 277mm (10.91") in
November. The dry season spans from
May to
September, with
August showing the least amount of rain at just 6mm (0.24"). Notably, the sea temperature sits comfortably between 23.1°C (73.6°F) and 29.2°C (84.6°F) across the year, significantly influencing the climate of the coastal city.
The best time to visit Port-Gentil
To enjoy the warmth without the rain, the best time to visit
Port-Gentil would be between
May to
September. Despite these months being within the reach of the dry season, the temperatures remain favorable, with average highs oscillating between 24.4°C (75.9°F) and 27.8°C (82°F). The average sea temperature during this period varies from 23.1°C (73.6°F) to 26.4°C (79.5°F), mixed with lower rainfall, providing favorable conditions for seaside activities.
The worst time to visit Port-Gentil
Conversely, the period from
October to
January is considered the least favorable for visits. This period marks the city's wet season, with
November being the wettest month, receiving an average rainfall of 277mm (10.91"). Additionally, the high humidity during this time can make conditions feel quite muggy, potentially putting a damper on outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Port-Gentil
Spring months in
Port-Gentil, transitioning from
March to
May, are characterized by gradually subsiding rainfall, moving from an average of 160mm (6.3") in March to 25mm (0.98") in May. Simultaneously, average high temperatures slightly drop from 29°C (84.2°F) in March to 27.8°C (82°F) in May. This period sees an increase in daylight hours, hovering at 12.1 hours throughout.
Summer weather in Port-Gentil
Arriving at summer, from
June to
August,
Port-Gentil experiences its dry season, with
July being the driest month with a meager 6mm (0.24") rainfall. While temperatures during this period dip slightly, the average high still remains comfortable, ranging from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 25.6°C (78.1°F). The humidity hovers at around 84%, and daylight remains constant at 12.1 hours.
Autumn weather in Port-Gentil
Autumn, aggregating
September to
November, witnesses a rapid surge in rainfall, with November topping at 277mm (10.91"). Notably, temperatures during this period remain pleasantly warm, fluctuating between 26.7°C (80.1°F) to 27.2°C (81°F). As humidity ascends to 83%, sea temperatures too rise, varying from 25.3°C (77.5°F) to 26.9°C (80.4°F).
Winter weather in Port-Gentil
Winter weather in
Port-Gentil, spanning
December to
February, is characterized by heavy rainfall, particularly in December at 207mm (8.15"). During this period, temperatures slightly rise, with highs from 27.7°C (81.9°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F). The surrounding sea temperature also hovers at a warm 27.4°C (81.3°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F), adding to the overall warmth of the season.
Weather in January
January introduces the new year with a warm and humid climate. Rainfall is a prominent feature a characteristic seen in its 131mm (5.16") showers dispersed over approximately 28 days. Occasional sunshine does make its way through the hazy skyline, lasting for over 8 hours.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Port-Gentil witnesses a transition from
January to
February, wherein the rainfall shifts marginally from 131mm (5.16") to 128mm (5.04"). Though the city carries its humid air, it does not compromise on its sunlight, thus striking a balance.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Port-Gentil exhibits an increase in the average rainfall, moving to 155mm (6.1") from
February's 128mm (5.04"), signifying the start of extensive rainfall in the region. The sky tends to lean towards overcast conditions, casting a filter on the sunlight.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Despite the consistent tropical character, the transition from
March to
April sees the highest average rainfall for the first half of the year at 160mm (6.3"). As
Port-Gentil moves deeper into the year, the days remain illuminated for consistent periods.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May bears witness to the transition from high to reduced rainfall levels. The sky of
Port-Gentil is seldom devoid of clouds, indicating a potential drizzle at any hour. The sudden drop in sea temperatures delimits the extent of the heat experienced by residents.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June stands out in
Port-Gentil due to its sharp drop in rainfall to 25mm (0.98"), marking the onset of the city's driest period. It is characterised by moderate solar exposure and controlled temperature. Moreover, the wind gains momentum with noticeable gusts primarily around seaside areas.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Following
June's transition,
July sets a record of having the lowest rainfalls for the year, dropped to 6mm (0.24"). The weather in July shows a clear shift from previous months, characterised by a stronger south-east wind. The lengthened hours of daylight bring contrast to typically hazy cloud cover.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
Port-Gentil is classified by its consistent climate, shifting only slightly from
July's patterns. Despite slight fluctuations in daylight hours, the overall visibility remains uncompromised. The sea temperature too, heats up in response to the atmospheric warming.
Weather in August » Weather in September
The transition from
August to
September brings about an increase in average rainfall from 10mm (0.39") to 30mm (1.18"). Though slightly warmer at times, the perceived temperature remains comfortable due to unperturbed wind movements.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October witnesses a manifold increase in rainfall, shooting up to 205mm (8.07") from
September's 30mm (1.18"). Notably, the shift in weather currents leaves a noticeable ripple on the overall wind movement. Despite the occasional cover of clouds, the city affords fair visibility.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November reins in as the wettest month of the year in
Port-Gentil with an average rainfall of 277mm (10.91"). Gradual changes in the city's humidity can be sensed with the November air. Even while under the thick cloud cover, the city manages to maintain an arm's length from extremes of temperature.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings down the curtain on the year, with the average rainfall decreasing to 207mm (8.15") from
November's high. The weather in
Port-Gentil wraps up with a warm but not overly stifling climate. Engulfed by a sense of calm, the city prepares for the New Year while unveiling an increase in daylight hours.
Weather in December »