Climate and monthly weather forecastSaint Louis, Senegal

The climate of Saint Louis

Characterized as a subtropical desert climate under the Köppen climate classification, St. Louis weathers a BWh climatic zone. Geographically placed in the northern part of Senegal, it experiences predominantly hot and arid conditions year-round. The city's climate parameters reveal relatively high average temperatures fluctuating from a low of 15.2°C (59.4°F) in the cooler months to a high of 33.7°C (92.7°F) during the hotter periods.

Relative humidity ranges from a low of 44% at the start of the year, growing incrementally to peak at 80% towards the third quarter, and steadily declining thereafter. This pattern indicates a dry first half of the year with a moisture-laden atmosphere in the latter half. Variations in rainfall corroborate this, with scanty precipitation in the initial months, leading up to copious rainfall of 94mm (3.7") during the height of the monsoon, and tapering off towards the year's end.

High daylight hours, varying from 11.2 hours to 13.1 hours, coupled with ample sunshine ranging from 7.5 hours to 9.5 hours, make most of the year bright and sunny. High UV index values persisting throughout the year should be of concern, reaching a maximum of 12. Sea temperatures show a steady incline from a cool 19.6°C (67.3°F) early in the year to a warm 28.2°C (82.8°F) during the summer months, ideal for marine activities.

A remarkable characteristic of the Saint Louis climate is the abrupt shift from near zero rainfall to heavy monsoon showers between May and September. The month of August promises both the highest rainfall and maximum humidity, combined with soaring temperatures around 31.5°C (88.7°F), posing possibly the most challenging weather conditions of the year.

The best time to visit Saint Louis

Considering weather parameters, November stands out as the best time to visit Saint Louis. The month enjoys a pleasant average temperature of 33.4°C (92.1°F), a marked decrease in rainfall with just 0mm (0") precipitation, and a comfortable sea temperature of 25.3°C (77.5°F). Humidity drops significantly to 54%, and there are ample daylight hours of about 11.4 hours coupled with 8.2 hours of sunshine, making exploring the city an enjoyable experience.

The worst time to visit Saint Louis

Travel advisories often suggest avoiding a trip to Saint Louis from June to September. These months experience the height of the monsoon with rainfall upwards of 40mm (1.57"), along with the highest humidity levels culminating at 80%. These climatic conditions, coupled with high temperatures averaging above 30°C (86°F), make it uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Saint Louis

Spring in Saint Louis, covering March, April, and May, welcomes a gradual increase in temperatures from 30.5°C (86.9°F) to 32.7°C (90.9°F). The humidity levels show a steady rise starting in March. Early spring witnesses almost no rainfall, while by the end of May, it begins to show signs of the upcoming monsoon. Sea temperatures also start warming up, ranging between 19.5°C (67.1°F) to 24.4°C (75.9°F).

Summer weather in Saint Louis

The summer season in Saint Louis spans June through August. It is characterized by high temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) and sees the onset of the monsoons in June. With the arrival of the rains, humidity levels surge affecting comfort. Sea temperatures are warm, ranging from 24.4°C (75.9°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), suitable for water-related activities.

Autumn weather in Saint Louis

Autumn months of September, October, and November in Saint Louis feature a gradual decrease in both temperatures and rainfall. The relative humidity drops from 78.5% in September to 54% in November, bringing some relief. Sea temperatures begin to cool down after hitting a high of 28.2°C (82.8°F) in September.

Winter weather in Saint Louis

Winter in Saint Louis, transitioning from December through February, experiences a noticeable drop in the average high and low temperatures, making it cooler compared to the torrid summer months. Rainfall is minimal to non-existent during this time of the year. Sea temperatures are moderate, making this period favorable for beach activities. Sunshine hours and daylight continue to be abundant despite being winter.

Weather in January

January in Saint Louis, Senegal introduces the New Year with warm days averaging high temperatures of 30.5°C (86.9°F) and lows falling to 15.2°C (59.4°F). The sea welcomes tourists with a moderate temperature of 21.5°C (70.7°F), perfect for a variety of aquatic activities. Weather in January »

Weather in February

By February, Saint Louis shows a slight increase in temperature, humidity, and rainfall from January, ushering in a subtle change in the weather pattern. With high temperatures rising to 32.2°C (90°F), days are mildly hotter, yet the nights remain wonderfully pleasant. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March in Saint Louis marks the arrival of slightly warmer days, with the highest known temperature reaching 32.7°C (90.9°F). This month showcases clear skies with virtually no rainfall, marking it a perfect window for outdoor activities and city explorations. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Saint Louis introduces an uptick in weather activity, with temperatures and humidity on the rise and zero rainfall. The temperature range for month floats around 31.7°C (89.1°F) (high) and 18°C (64.4°F) (low), indicating warmer days and nights. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May signals the actual arrival of Saint Louis's wet season, with average high temperatures lingering around 30.3°C (86.5°F). This coincides with the beginning of a palpable increase in humidity to 69.5% and the sea temperature rising to an inviting 21.8°C (71.2°F). Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, tourists in Saint Louis are treated to a remarkable shift in the climate, with high temperatures averaging around 30.4°C (86.7°F). This month, the rainfall registers at 7mm (0.28"), marking the true beginning of the wet season. Weather in June »

Weather in July

In July, the weather in Saint Louis reaches its most varied. The city sees its highest levels of rainfall, with an average of 40mm (1.57") collected over 4 days. July also marks the peak of high temperatures averaging 30.7°C (87.3°F), while nights turn noticeably warmer with temperatures maintained at a steady 24.4°C (75.9°F). Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Saint Louis is recognized for marking the peak of the wet season, with the highest rainfall of the year, measuring up to 94mm (3.7"). Along with the rainfall, this month experiences its highest average low and sea temperatures, standing at 25°C (77°F) and 27.8°C (82°F) respectively. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September registers a decline in the wet season, although the average rainfall still remains high at 92mm (3.62"). Also, the sea's temperature is at its warmest, reaching 28.2°C (82.8°F), inviting those seeking to do water activities. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In October, the weather in Saint Louis starts to calm down, with a considerable decrease in the amount of rainfall, which averages at 23mm (0.91"). The city's temperature stays pretty much constant; however, days grow slightly shorter with daylight hours decreasing to 11.8. Weather in October »

Weather in November

By November, Saint Louis, Senegal, experiences a major respite from the long-standing wet season, as the rainfall drops to a mere 0mm (0"), over no rainy days. This coincides with the sea temperature falling to 25.3°C (77.5°F), causing a visible decline in the heat and humidity. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Saint Louis ushers in a shift towards cooler weather, with the average lowest dropping to 16.4°C (61.5°F). This month is also subject to minor rainfall of only 1mm (0.04"), continuing the dry streak initiated in November. Weather in December »