April weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

A shift in the weather patterns is evident with April’s arrival in Mapaki, Sierra Leone. Transitioning from a dry, heated landscape to a fertile sky raining dust-free waterdrops, Mapaki turns into a juxtaposition of sun and showers. Confirming April’s identity as a distinguishing landmark in the weather calendar, an increase in rainfall to 48mm (1.89") is palpable. Coupled with a marginal drop in temperature and a steady pickup in humidity, April swiftly ushers in the enveloping monsoon. Heading into May, weather features become in sync with the monsoon’s cadence, fueled by the balance between the ever-present sun and frequent showers.

Temperature

Mapaki in April witnesses an average high-temperature of a still very hot 37.7°C (99.9°F), indicating a slight variation from March's 38.4°C (101.1°F). The significant decline in Mapaki's temperature, from day to night, averages of 24°C (75.2°F) in April.

Heat index

April's heat index is estimated at a burning hot 56°C (132.8°F). Warning: These weather conditions are deemed as overly treacherous, with heatstroke imminent.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. Facing direct sunlight may hike up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', quantifies the warmth felt when relative humidity is considered. The impact of weather on an individual can be subjective, affected by the person's activity and heat perception, which can vary due to elements including wind, clothing, and metabolic differences. Understand that direct sun rays can influence the weather's impact, leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely significant for children. Children often lack awareness of the importance of taking breaks and rehydrating. The feeling of thirst is a late indication of dehydration, so maintaining hydration, especially during long periods of physical activity, is critical.
The body's natural response to excessive warmth is perspiration, as it allows for cooling through sweat evaporation. An elevated level of relative humidity hinders evaporation, leading to decreased heat elimination from the body, inducing a sensation of excess heat. Accumulating more heat than the body can dissipate leads to an uptick in body temperature, with potential heat stress consequences.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in April is 63%.

Rainfall

In Mapaki, in April, during 16.1 rainfall days, 48mm (1.89") of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Mapaki, during the entire year, the rain falls for 225.8 days and collects up to 1471mm (57.91") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in April is 12h and 19min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:44 and sunset at 18:57. On the last day of April, sunrise is at 06:31 and sunset at 18:57 GMT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in April is 9h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health hazard from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the average person.
Note: In April, a daily UV index of 7 turns into the following recommendations:
Sidestep overexposure. Individuals with fair complexions risk burning in fewer than 20 minutes. The hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. have the most intense UV radiation. As much as possible, limit direct sun exposure during this period. Shield yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation with sun-protective attire, a hat, and quality sunglasses.