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Contents
- The climate of Dakar
- The best time to visit Dakar
- The worst time to visit Dakar
- Spring weather in Dakar
- Summer weather in Dakar
- Autumn weather in Dakar
- Winter weather in Dakar
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The vast city of Dakar, Senegal, with a beautiful outline of the Atlantic Ocean waterfront
The climate of Dakar
Dakar, Senegal, is settled within the Köppen climate classification of BSh. Bearing this name, it attributes the area's subtropical steppe environment. Geographically, Dakar's position on the Cape Verde Peninsula's westernmost point contributes to its consistent weather patterns, characterized by a combination of warmth and relative dryness.
Throughout the year, Dakar features warm temperatures coupled with generally low rainfall. The thermometer usually swings from the monthly average low of 20.2°C (68.4°F) to the average high of 29°C (84.2°F). These temperatures are mostly consistent, yet a subtle increase can be noticed from May to October. As for rainfall, Dakar has an arid disposition. The yearly turnout of precipitation ranges from 0mm (0") in the driest months to 88mm (3.46") in the rainiest period. Additionally, the relative humidity escalates from 59% to 82% throughout the year, peaking around the rainy season, making the atmosphere feel noticeably more humid during those months.
Optimal visibility conditions grace the city all year round, reaching an unchanging 10km (6.2mi). Sea temperatures vary between a minimum of 19.9°C (67.8°F) and a maximum of 28.7°C (83.7°F), with warmer periods experienced between May and November. The city sees significant sunshine hours varying from 7.7 hours to 9.9 hours daily. Accompanied by this, daylight duration fluctuates in relatively small brackets from 11.3 hours to 13 hours.
Throughout the year, Dakar features warm temperatures coupled with generally low rainfall. The thermometer usually swings from the monthly average low of 20.2°C (68.4°F) to the average high of 29°C (84.2°F). These temperatures are mostly consistent, yet a subtle increase can be noticed from May to October. As for rainfall, Dakar has an arid disposition. The yearly turnout of precipitation ranges from 0mm (0") in the driest months to 88mm (3.46") in the rainiest period. Additionally, the relative humidity escalates from 59% to 82% throughout the year, peaking around the rainy season, making the atmosphere feel noticeably more humid during those months.
Optimal visibility conditions grace the city all year round, reaching an unchanging 10km (6.2mi). Sea temperatures vary between a minimum of 19.9°C (67.8°F) and a maximum of 28.7°C (83.7°F), with warmer periods experienced between May and November. The city sees significant sunshine hours varying from 7.7 hours to 9.9 hours daily. Accompanied by this, daylight duration fluctuates in relatively small brackets from 11.3 hours to 13 hours.
The best time to visit Dakar
Taking into account Dakar's climate characteristics, the ideal period to visit might be between November and April. During these months, the city enjoys higher temperatures, averaging between 22.2°C (72°F) to 26.3°C (79.3°F), and tremendously low rainfall, with totals rarely exceeding 3mm (0.12"). Sun-lovers will appreciate the consistent sunshine hours, ranging from 9.6 hours to 9.9 hours per day. Furthermore, the wind speed tends to be higher, particularly from December to February, creating a soothing breeze that brings relief from the heat.
The worst time to visit Dakar
Conversely, the period from June to September might be less ideal for travelers. Despite the high temperatures, ranging from 26.4°C (79.5°F) to 29°C (84.2°F), these months bring the majority of Dakar's yearly rainfall. Precipitation rates can rise up to 88mm (3.46") in a single month, coupled with an increased relative humidity rate of 81% to 82%. Consequently, this might lead to a discomforting mugginess. Simultaneously, the sunshine hours reduce to their yearly low, with a minimum of 7.7 hours in August.
Spring weather in Dakar
Springtime in Dakar, denoted from March through May, treads a middle course in terms of climate. Temperatures maintain their warm plateau, with average highs between 22.3°C (72.1°F) to 24.9°C (76.8°F) and lows from 20.2°C (68.4°F) to 23.3°C (73.9°F). Rainfall remains relatively low, barely tipping over 3mm (0.12") in May. Increased wind speeds in March and May contribute to an enjoyable, fresh atmosphere during springtime.
Summer weather in Dakar
The summer season, running from June to August, marks Dakar's wettest span. While temperatures continue to rise, peaking at 29°C (84.2°F) in July, the rainfall also intensifies. Precipitation levels surge from 10mm (0.39") in June to a yearly high of 88mm (3.46") in August. The relative humidity also follows suit, attaining its apex at 82%. The sea temperature reaches its zenith as well, with a pleasant average of 28.3°C (82.9°F) in August.
Autumn weather in Dakar
Come autumn, from September to November, rainfall rapidly dwindles. After the peak of 88mm (3.46") in September, precipitation drops dramatically to 21mm (0.83") in October, eventually reaching virtually non-existent levels by November. Meanwhile, temperatures remain consistently warm within an array of 26.3°C (79.3°F) and 28.1°C (82.6°F). The humidity also decreases, contributing to an enjoyable visit during this season.
Winter weather in Dakar
The winter months in Dakar, from December to February, exemplify the subtropical steppe climate's charm. With virtually no rainfall, high temperatures from 24°C (75.2°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F), and cool nights between 21.8°C (71.2°F) and 20.6°C (69.1°F), this period caters perfectly to winter escapades. Winter provides an estimated 9.6 to 9.7 hours of sunshine, ensuring wonderful days out under the open sky.
Weather in January
January starts the year in Dakar, Senegal, with mild conditions prevailing throughout the month. Temperatures fluctuate between 21.8°C (71.2°F) and 24°C (75.2°F) while sea temperature showcases a warmer 22.8°C (73°F). Humidity is relatively lower compared to upcoming months at 59% relative humidity, offering dry conditions to residents and tourists alike. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Moving into February, Dakar weather shifts subtly compared to January. A slight fall in temperature gap manifests itself with a range from 20.6°C (69.1°F) to 22.7°C (72.9°F). Notably, February marks the commencement of the city's transition into a phase with relatively increased humidity levels, reaching 65% this month. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March brings in more changes to the weather scenario in Dakar. March is characterized by an increase in the frequency of cloud cover, although sunshine hours do not witness any notable reduction. The humidity curve shows an upward trend with the rise reaching 71% this month, signifying a moist environment. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April initiates a departure from Dakar's dry spell, as precipitation records 2mm (0.08") of rainfall, offering a slight but noticeable change from previous months. Along with the introduction of occasional showers, the month sustains the cooling trend of temperatures with a low of 20.3°C (68.5°F) and high of 22.2°C (72°F). Weather in April »
Weather in May
Dakar city witnesses a warmer May. The high temperature climbs to 23°C (73.4°F). However, there's a touch of rain witnessed with up to 3mm (0.12") precipitation recorded. The relative increase in temperatures echoes in the sea's warmth with enhanced sea temperatures endorsing beach activities. Weather in May »
Weather in June
As June arrives, the temperature gets revved up further in Dakar. Showcasing the highest relative humidity level of 81%, June marks the advent of the wet season. Sea temperatures too serve warmer waters signifying a befitting time for water activities. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July captures the essence of rains in Dakar, characterizing the heart of the wet season. An impressive 33mm (1.3") rainfall measurement stands out as July's notable feature. Despite the increased precipitation, temperatures remain relatively high at peak levels of 26.4°C (79.5°F). Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, Dakar experiences weather dynamics with a multifaceted approach. August presents the highest rainfall of the year with as much as 77mm (3.03"), the city experiencing its peak monsoon phase. Dakar's sky assumes a grey outlook with a 43% cloud cover, the highest of the year. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Weather conditions in September commence a gradual transition from the wet season peak. Rainfall decreases to 88mm (3.46") by comparison to August, yet comfortably falls into the higher rain spectrum category. Dakar's skyline presents a clearer view with decreasing cloud percentage. Weather in September »
Weather in October
Transitioning further from the rainy season, October in Dakar brings down the average rainfall to 21mm (0.83"). Temperatures start to recede from the summer highs, settling at a maximum temperature of 29°C (84.2°F). October days experience a fall in cloud coverage, reinstating clearer skies and long sunny days. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November sees more dry spells setting in Dakar. A mere 1mm (0.04") of rainfall sufficiently attests to the city's entry into the dry phase. Even though there is a significant drop in precipitation, the humidity stays at a moderate 67%, and temperatures remain warm at a high of 28.1°C (82.6°F). Weather in November »
Weather in December
Concluding the year, December in Dakar, Senegal, returns to predominantly dry conditions. With negligible rainfall, this month truly echoes the characteristics of the dry season. The weather does not waver much from November with the maximum temperature recorded at 26.3°C (79.3°F). Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the least humid month in Dakar?
The months with the lowest humidity are January and December, with an average relative humidity of 59%.
What is the driest month in Dakar?
January through March and December are months without rainfall in Dakar.
How much does it rain in Dakar?
Throughout the year, there are 53.1 rainfall days, and 235mm (9.25") of precipitation is accumulated.
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Dakar?
The months with the lowest UV index in Dakar are January through May and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What month is the sea coldest in Dakar?
With an average sea temperature of 19.9°C (67.8°F), March is the month with the coldest seawater in Dakar.
What time of the year is the coldest in Dakar?
In Dakar, April registers the lowest temperatures, averaging 22.2°C (72°F) at the peak and 20.3°C (68.5°F) at the lowest.
When does it rain in Dakar?
April through November are months with rainfall in Dakar, Senegal.
What is the month with the most sunshine in Dakar?
The months with the most sunshine in Dakar are April and May, with an average of 9.9h of sunshine.
When are the longest days in Dakar?
June has the longest days of the year in Dakar, with an average of 13h and 0min of daylight.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Dakar?
June through November, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the most humid month in Dakar?
July is the most humid month in Dakar, Senegal, with an average relative humidity of 82%.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Dakar?
The month with the least sunshine in Dakar is August, with an average of 7.7h of sunshine.
What is the rainiest month in Dakar?
The month with the most rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 13.3 days and typically aggregates up to 88mm (3.46") of precipitation.
What month is the sea warmest in Dakar?
September is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average sea temperature of 28.7°C (83.7°F).
What is the hottest time of year in Dakar?
The warmest time of the year in Dakar, Senegal, is October, with temperatures averaging a high of 29°C (84.2°F) and a low of 27.5°C (81.5°F).
What is the month with the shortest days in Dakar?
The month with the shortest days in Dakar is December, with an average of 11h and 18min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Dakar?
Dakar, Senegal, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). GMT timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
Dakar, Senegal
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is October (29°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is April (22.2°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is October (27.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is March (20.2°C).
Average pressure
Dakar, Senegal
- Average pressure in January:
1013.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1012.6mbar - Average pressure in March:
1011.8mbar - Average pressure in April:
1011.4mbar - Average pressure in May:
1011.7mbar - Average pressure in June:
1012.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1012.8mbar - Average pressure in August:
1012mbar - Average pressure in September:
1012mbar - Average pressure in October:
1011.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in December:
1012.9mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1013.5mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is October (1011.3mbar).
Average wind speed
Dakar, Senegal
- Average wind speed in January:
25.8km/h - Average wind speed in February:
27.2km/h - Average wind speed in March:
26.8km/h - Average wind speed in April:
26.6km/h - Average wind speed in May:
22.8km/h - Average wind speed in June:
18.2km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
16.9km/h - Average wind speed in August:
16.4km/h - Average wind speed in September:
15.2km/h - Average wind speed in October:
17.4km/h - Average wind speed in November:
22.9km/h - Average wind speed in December:
25km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (27.2km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (15.2km/h).
Average humidity
Dakar, Senegal
The month with the highest relative humidity is July (82%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and December (59%).
Average rainfall
Dakar, Senegal
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is September (88mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January, February, March and December (0mm).
Average rainfall days
Dakar, Senegal
- Average rainfall days in January:
0.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
0.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
0.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
1.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
1.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
4.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
5.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
0.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (14.2 days).
The months with the least rainy days are February and March (0.3 days).
Average sea temperature
Dakar, Senegal
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is September (28.7°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (19.9°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Dakar, Senegal
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 4min
The months with the most sunshine are April and May (Average sunshine: 9h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 7h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Dakar, Senegal
- Average sunshine days in January:
30.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
27.6 days - Average sunshine days in March:
30.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
28.7 days - Average sunshine days in May:
28.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
24.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
19 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
25.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
28.6 days - Average sunshine days in December:
30.2 days
The month with the most sunshine days is March (30.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (13.3 days).
Average UV index
Dakar, Senegal
The months with the highest UV index are June, July, August, September, October and November (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May and December (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Dakar, Senegal
The month with the most cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 43).
The month with the least cloud cover is April (Cloud cover 6).
Average visibility
Dakar, Senegal
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (10km).
Dakar, Senegal
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