March weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

March rolls in with a whiff of change in Mapaki. The dust-laden dry breeze morphs into moist zephyrs, paving the way for the rainy season to unleash its spectacle. Stepping up from the preceding months, rainfall levels leap to an average of 21mm (0.83"), turning the heated ambiance into a refreshing retreat. As the pendulum swings towards April, the slight dip in sunshine hours is substituted by a surge in humidity and continued rainfall. A paradise for the ones seeking an escape into the mild tropical rainshowers, March is a haven of naturally air-conditioned delight.

Temperature

Mapaki's warmest temperatures are experienced in March, with average high temperatures of 38.4°C (101.1°F) and lows of 22.9°C (73.2°F).

Heat index

For March, the heat index is estimated at a burning hot 56°C (132.8°F). Warning: These weather conditions are understood as very dangerous, as heatstroke is near.
Be advised, the heat index considers values for conditions in shade and with a light breeze. With direct sunlight, the heat index could increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'real feel', is achieved by amalgamating air temperature with the relative humidity readings. Factors encompassing physical activity, clothing, and metabolic differences have a role in shaping the individual's impression of temperature. Take note that direct exposure to the sun can increase the felt temperature, possibly adding 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are highly critical for babies and toddlers. Juveniles are regularly less conscious of the need to recuperate and rehydrate. Thirst is a tardy symptom of dehydration - hydration, especially during lengthy physical activities, should be maintained.
When it comes to cooling down, the human body's primary method is through perspiration, making use of sweat evaporation to eliminate excess heat. When the relative humidity is high, the evaporation rate is reduced. The warmth is removed from the body at a lower rate, causing the body to retain more heat than it would in dry air. When body temperature rises due to an imbalance in heat gain, there's a potential for dehydration and overheating.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in March is 60%.

Rainfall

In March, the rain falls for 11.1 days. Throughout March, 21mm (0.83") of precipitation is 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 March is 12h and 5min.
On the first day of March in Mapaki, sunrise is at 07:00 and sunset at 18:58. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:45 and sunset at 18:57 GMT.

Sunshine

In Mapaki, the average sunshine in March 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 value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: The average daily UV index of 7 in March transforms into the following instructions:
Avoid excessive sunlight. Those with lighter skin may experience burning in less than 20 minutes. Avoid direct exposure to the Sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the peak period for UV radiation, noting that objects like parasols or canopies might not offer complete sun protection. During bright days, sunglasses that offer UVA and UVB defense are recommended.