Climate and monthly weather forecast
Mali

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The climate of Mali

In the vast West African landscape, Mali spans from the Sahara Desert in the north to the Niger River in the south. This geographic span produces a unique combination of climates. Despite being largely landlocked, Mali is subjected to a Tropical Savanna Climate, known for a consistent average temperature above 18°C (64.4°F) every month of the year. Throughout the year, the country oscillates between a hot, dry season and a rainy season, with the latter being essential for agriculture. The northern region, closer to the Sahara, is arid and can reach extremes of heat during the peak dry season, while the southern parts of the country, influenced by the Niger River, witness a more moderate version of this climate.

The best time to visit Mali

Given Mali's climate, the most favourable time to visit would be between November and February. During these months, temperatures remain relatively moderate, ranging between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The hot, dry Harmattan wind from the Sahara moderates during this time, reducing the dust levels. Moreover, this period is post the rainy season, ensuring clear skies and minimal disruption due to weather.

The worst time to visit Mali

The period from March to May tends to be the hottest in Mali, making it a challenging time for visitors. During these months, daytime temperatures in the southern regions can rise up to 40°C (104°F), while in the northern regions, closer to the Sahara, temperatures can climb even higher. Moreover, the Harmattan wind often results in dusty conditions, reducing visibility and creating discomfort.

Spring weather in Mali

Spring in Mali, from March to May, is characterized by a significant increase in temperature. During this period, the daytime temperatures often rise to a peak of 40°C (104°F) in the southern regions and can be higher in the northern desert areas. In addition, the Harmattan wind, carrying dust from the Sahara, is common during this period. This dust can reduce visibility and cause respiratory problems for some individuals.

Summer weather in Mali

In the summer months of June to August, Mali experiences its rainy season. However, the rain provides some respite from the intense heat but also brings with it challenges like poor road conditions and increased presence of mosquitos. In the south, precipitation can reach up to 500mm (19.69") during these months, while the north remains largely dry. The average temperature during these months stays around 30°C (86°F).

Autumn weather in Mali

Autumn in Mali, occurring from September to November, marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. During this time, rainfall decreases significantly, and temperatures start to cool down from the summer heat. Average temperatures can range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), with occasional rainfall at the start of the period. This season offers a moderate climate suitable for travelling.

Winter weather in Mali

Winter in Mali, from December to February, marks the dry season. During these months, the weather is typically clear, and temperatures are relatively cooler, with averages ranging between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry Harmattan wind, laden with Sahara's dust, is less intense during this time. However, the dust can still affect air quality, especially in the northern parts of the country. Despite these conditions, the winter months offer the best travel conditions due to moderate temperatures and clear skies.

Weather in January

January marks the middle of the dry season in Mali. Temperatures during this month are more moderate compared to the rest of the year, making it one of the cooler months. Average temperatures range between 21°C (69.8°F) in the south and 27°C (80.6°F) in the north. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The month of February in Mali continues the trend of the dry season, albeit with slowly rising temperatures as the country moves towards the hot season starting in March. Average temperatures in February tend to range from 24°C (75.2°F) in the southern regions to a slightly warmer 29°C (84.2°F) in the northern parts of the country, particularly near the Sahara. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March signals the onset of the hot season in Mali. This month experiences a significant increase in temperatures, making it one of the hottest periods of the year. Average temperatures range from 30°C (86°F) in the south to a sweltering 35°C (95°F) in the northern regions, particularly closer to the Sahara. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Mali sees a continuation of the hot season, with temperatures often reaching their yearly peak. The southern parts of the country, including cities such as Bamako and Kayes, experience average temperatures around 35°C (95°F). Weather in April »

Weather in May

May in Mali marks the end of the hot season and the beginning of subtle changes in the climate as the rainy season approaches. The average temperatures across the country begin to slightly decrease, falling to about 33°C (91.4°F) in the southern regions and remaining close to 40°C (104°F) in the northern parts. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Mali is a significant month, marking the definitive start of the rainy season, which brings a marked change in the country's weather conditions. The southern regions, including cities like Bamako and Sikasso, see a notable decrease in temperatures, with averages falling to 30°C (86°F). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July represents the heart of the rainy season in Mali, bringing substantial rainfall and cooler temperatures to the southern parts of the country. In cities such as Bamako and Kayes, located in the southern region, the average temperatures generally range from 26°C (78.8°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Mali is characterized by the peak of the rainy season, especially in the southern parts of the country. Cities like Bamako and Ségou experience average temperatures ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F), providing some relief from the heat of previous months. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Mali signals the gradual end of the rainy season, with a decrease in rainfall and a subtle rise in temperatures. In the southern regions, cities such as Bamako and Sikasso experience average temperatures ranging from 27°C (80.6°F) to 31°C (87.8°F). Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Mali represents a significant shift in climate as the country transitions fully from the rainy season to the dry season. The southern regions, including cities such as Bamako and Kayes, witness a further increase in temperatures, with averages ranging from 29°C (84.2°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Mali solidifies the return of the dry season, with minimal rainfall and steadily rising temperatures. In the southern regions, including cities like Bamako and Ségou, average temperatures tend to range from 31°C (87.8°F) to 35°C (95°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Mali further amplifies the conditions of the dry season, with virtually no rainfall and moderately high temperatures. In the southern regions, including cities such as Bamako and Sikasso, temperatures typically range from 29°C (84.2°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Weather in December »
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