January weather forecast
Patama, Sierra Leone

January, like December, is another hot winter month in Patama, Sierra Leone, with an average temperature varying between 19.7°C (67.5°F) and 34.8°C (94.6°F).

Temperature

As January unfolds, the average high-temperature reaches a still tropical 34.8°C (94.6°F), hinting at a slight fluctuation from the previous month. Contrary to the day's heat, an average low-temperature of 19.7°C (67.5°F) is recorded during the nights in January.

Heat index

In January, the heat index is estimated at a burning hot 47°C (116.6°F). On guard: Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are predicted. Heatstroke is a potential hazard with continuous physical effort.
Thinking about the heat index, one should account for its values in shaded areas with gentle breezes. With direct sunlight, the heat index could increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'feels like', measures the perceived warmth when incorporating the humidity present in the air. This effect is subjective, differing among individuals based on their physical activity and perception of heat, which can be influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variances. Considering the impact of direct sunlight, it's possible for the heat index to surge by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to children. Young ones regularly neglect the requirement for rest and fluid replenishment. Thirst is a late stage of dehydration - so, it is necessary to keep hydrated, particularly during extended periods of physical exertion.
When temperatures rise, the human body turns to perspiration, using the cooling power of evaporating sweat. When the air holds a significant amount of moisture, the efficiency of the evaporation process is decreased, preventing the body from cooling down efficiently, leading to the sensation of overheating. Temperature imbalances caused by excessive heat retention can trigger heat-related maladies.

Humidity

January is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 65%.

Rainfall

The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 5.8 days and typically collects 8mm (0.31") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in January is 11h and 44min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:56 and sunset at 18:37. On the last day of January, sunrise is at 07:03 and sunset at 18:50 GMT.

Sunshine

The month with the most sunshine in Patama is January, with an average of 9.6h of sunshine.

UV index

January through April 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 unsafe exposure to UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: An average maximum UV index of 7 in January leads to these recommendations:
Adopt measures and apply sun safety strategies. Shielding from skin and eye damage is necessary. UV radiation from the sun is at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit direct exposure during these hours. Wearing sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection effectively reduces sun-induced eye damage.