January weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

Serving as a grand opening of the year, January in Mapaki, Sierra Leone, captures the authentic tropical vibe. Sun-soaked days, boasting approximately 9.8 hours of blazing sunshine in 24 hours, inject a refreshing essence. Not a radical shift, February’s conditions mirror those of January - a sight of little variation to anticipate. The remarkable aspect that earmarks January is the mere 4mm (0.16") of rainfall, making it one of the driest months of the year. Omnipresent clouds cover only a minor portion of the sky, pushing onset of the rainy season forward.

Temperature

The weather in Mapaki during January records an average high-temperature of a fiery hot 35.4°C (95.7°F), closely mirroring the preceding month. Despite substantial daily fluctuations, the average low-temperature is a refreshing 19.8°C (67.6°F) during January.

Heat index

In January, the heat index is estimated at a blazing hot 45°C (113°F). Keep guard: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely. Continued activity increases the risk of heatstroke.
Metrics for the heat index primarily focus on shaded spots and light wind conditions. Exposure to the direct sun could elevate the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. The effect is experienced differently by individuals, hinging on unique characteristics such as body mass, stature, and level of activity. 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 particularly important for children. Children frequently do not understand the need for recuperation and hydration. Thirst, being a late manifestation of dehydration, underlines the need to hydrate frequently, especially when engaging in prolonged physical exercises.
One way the human body deals with excessive warmth is by perspiring and allowing sweat to evaporate. When relative humidity is on the rise, it curtails evaporation, thereby reducing the heat elimination from the body and causing the feeling of being excessively hot. Temperature imbalances caused by excessive heat retention can trigger heat-related maladies.

Humidity

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 58%, are the least humid months in Mapaki.

Rainfall

In Mapaki, during January, the rain falls for 2.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 4mm (0.16") of precipitation. 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 January in Mapaki is 11h and 41min.
On the first day of January, sunrise is at 07:02 and sunset at 18:39. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 07:08 and sunset at 18:53 GMT.

Sunshine

With an average of 9.8h of sunshine, January has the most sunshine of the year.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Mapaki are January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index, 7 during January, leads to the following recommendations:
Beware of overexposure. Fair-skinned individuals risk burning in less than 20 minutes. The Sun's UV radiation is most intense from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours. Fend off the sun's harsh rays with appropriate clothing, a wide-brim hat, and UV-protective sunglasses.