December weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

Closing the year in Mapaki, Sierra Leone, December symbolizes the definitive arrival of the dry season. The skies clear up, the sun takes the center stage, and the landscapes bask in the returning heat. January waits just around the corner with an identical weather pattern, mirroring December's warm, dry conditions. A bit of trivia - the nearly absent rainfall, averaging merely 3mm (0.12"), marks December as the driest month of the year. Wrapping up the year with characteristic tropical flair, December pays a fitting tribute to Mapaki's sun-drenched soil.

Temperature

The transition from November to December in Mapaki sees an average high-temperature of a still hot 33.1°C (91.6°F), indicating a minor variance from the prior month. Mapaki sees a large disparity in day to night temperatures in December, with the night temperature dropping to an average of 19.7°C (67.5°F).

Heat index

In December, the average heat index is estimated at a blisteringly hot 42°C (107.6°F). Apply extra caution, heat cramps and heat exhaustion could happen. Heatstroke might occur with long-duration activity.
Research indicates the heat index considers values in shaded locales and with light winds. The direct sun can potentially cause the heat index to increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'apparent temperature', determines the feeling of heat when you account for the relative humidity. Factors including metabolic differences, physical activity, and clothing are additional elements that influence the individual's temperature experience. Taking into account that direct sunlight can boost the heat effect, the heat index may rise by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for babies and toddlers. Children frequently underestimate the necessity to rest and hydrate. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - thus, it is vital to stay hydrated, particularly during lengthy physical exercises.
Normally, the human body cools itself through perspiration, which removes excessive heat by evaporating sweat. Relative humidity in excess curtails evaporation, therefore reducing heat dissipation from the body, leading to feelings of excess heat. Increasing body temperatures can be a precursor to dehydration if the body can't shed the extra heat.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in December is 66%.

Rainfall

The month with the least rainfall in Mapaki, Sierra Leone, is December, when the rain falls for 3.2 days and typically collects 3mm (0.12") of precipitation.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 36min of daylight.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:47 and sunset at 18:26. On the last day of December, in Mapaki, sunrise is at 07:02 and sunset at 18:39 GMT.

Sunshine

In December, the average sunshine is 9.5h.

UV index

January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: In December, a regular UV index of 7 translates into these guidelines:
Exercise precautions and adapt sun safety practices. Defence against skin and eye affliction is paramount. Stay out of direct sunlight and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest, but remember that shade devices may not offer full sun protection. For a sun-safe wardrobe, go for clothes that are tightly woven and generously sized.