December weather forecastMapaki, Sierra Leone

Weather in December

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

Mapaki registers an average high-temperature of a still tropical 33.1°C (91.6°F) at the commencement of December, closely related to the preceding month. Mapaki's temperature in December declines substantially from daytime highs, settling at a consistent average of 19.7°C (67.5°F) during the nights.

Heat index

In December, the heat index is estimated at a scorching 42°C (107.6°F). Take more caution, heat exhaustion and heat cramps may occur. Long-lasting activity may cause heatstroke.
Records show heat index calculations are tailored for shaded regions and mild winds. The heat index might be elevated by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees due to direct sun exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'felt air temperature', embodies the combination of air temperature and moisture content to illustrate perceived heat. Factors such as metabolic variation, pregnancy, and physical activity play a role in one's impression of weather. 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 highly critical to babies and toddlers. Young ones often underestimate the need for rest and rehydration. Thirst appears late in dehydration - hence, it is important to keep hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
The body's inherent cooling system operates through perspiration, wherein evaporating sweat offsets excessive heat. Excessive relative humidity disturbs the body's typical cooling process by reducing evaporation, leading to a decrease in body cooling rate and an increase in the sensation of warmth. When heat gain exceeds the level the body can remove, body temperature begins to rise, and heat-related illnesses and disorders may develop.

Humidity

In December, the average relative humidity in Mapaki is 66%.

Rainfall

The month with the least rainfall 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 December, sunrise is at 06:47 and sunset at 18:26. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 07:02 and sunset at 18:39 GMT.

Sunshine

In Mapaki, the average sunshine in December is 9.5h.

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 value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: In December, a regular UV index of 7 translates into these guidelines:
Elude overexposure. Fair-skinned people could get burnt in less than 20 minutes. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the Sun's UV radiation is at its peak. Limit your exposure to direct sunlight during these hours. A wide-brimmed hat provides unparalleled sun protection for sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, and neck.