The climate of Banjul
Situated in
The Gambia,
Banjul's climatic conditions fall under the Köppen climate classification 'Aw', indicating a tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. The city experiences high temperatures ranging from 28.1°C (82.6°F) to 31.8°C (89.2°F) and low temperatures between 21.6°C (70.9°F) and 26.9°C (80.4°F) over the course of the year. Humidity level also fluctuates, with a lower boundary of 39% and an upper of 80%.
The city receives rainfall measurements between 0mm (0") to 177mm (6.97"), depending largely on the season. The number of rainfall days varies from a minimal 0.2 days to a maximal 21.6 days in a month. It is noteworthy that the sea temperature relatively stays stable, fluctuating only between 21°C (69.8°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). With daylight hours ranging between 11.3 to 12.9 hours, the city enjoys ample sunlight all year round.
In terms of unique weather patterns, Banjul experiences its highest rainfall of 177mm (6.97") in
August. In contrast, no rainfall is recorded in the months of
January and
February. The hottest month is typically
November, with a high of 31.8°C (89.2°F), while the coolest month on record is
May, with a high temperature reading of 28.1°C (82.6°F).
The best time to visit Banjul
Visitors seeking sunny days would find
Banjul most appealing between
January and
March. During these months, maximum daylight hours register at 11.7 to 12.1 hours, with relative humidity dropping to as low as 39%. Sea temperatures remain comfortable at 21°C (69.8°F) to 22°C (71.6°F), while rainfall is practically non-existent, presenting an ideal environment for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Banjul
The inclement weather conditions observed in
Banjul during the months of
July and
August make this period less than ideal for visitation. The highest rainfall measurement is recorded at 177mm (6.97") in August, with a substantial amount of rainfall days at 21.6. Despite temperatures remaining relatively high at 29.1°C (84.4°F), the increase in relative humidity to 80% makes the atmospheric conditions rather oppressive.
Spring weather in Banjul
Springtime in
Banjul encompasses
March through
May, a period characterized by a rise in temperatures and minimal rainfall. March sees the highest spring temperature of 29.4°C (84.9°F), while May records the lowest spring high temperature of 28.1°C (82.6°F). Rainfall is typically sparse, increasing slightly from 0mm (0") to 5mm (0.2") by May.
Summer weather in Banjul
The Summer period in
Banjul, running from
June to
August, experiences a significant increase in rainfall. June records rainfall amounts of 14mm (0.55"), which jump to 177mm (6.97") in August. During this period, temperatures remain relatively high, with the highest recorded summer temperature being 29.2°C (84.6°F) in June and 29.1°C (84.4°F) in August.
Autumn weather in Banjul
Autumn in
Banjul, from
September to
November, experiences a decrease in rainfall from the heightened levels of the summer months. Rainfall measurements drop from 121mm (4.76") in September to just 2mm (0.08") by November. Temperatures during this period remain consistently warm with the highest recorded autumn temperature being 31.8°C (89.2°F) in November.
Winter weather in Banjul
Wind speeds are at their peak during the winter months of
December to
February in
Banjul, ranging from 17.1km/h (10.6mph) to 18.6km/h (11.6mph). This period experiences the least amount of rainfall, with a steady record of 0mm (0") across all winter months. Winter high temperatures range from 29.5°C (85.1°F) to 30.5°C (86.9°F), remaining pleasantly high despite the season.
Weather in January
The city of
Banjul in
January is known for its dry weather characterized by minimal rainfall, rivalling the aridity experienced in
February and
March. The pressure of 1012.4mb in the atmosphere signifies stability, thus leading to lesser weather fluctuations.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Weather forecasts for
Banjul during this month echo
January's patterns, although the atmosphere is slightly less stable with a pressure of 1011.3mb. As the first quarter of the year progresses, the amount of daylight increases slightly, along with continued high levels of sunshine, albeit with a slightly lowered UV index.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March arrives in
Banjul with a noticeable consistency in weather trends. However, the climate begins to shift slightly with the relative humidity climbing to 51%; a hint of the upcoming humid season. A characteristic of the weather at this time is the emerging rainfall witnessed during this period.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
As
Banjul ushers in the second quarter of the year, weather patterns start to display shifts from the initial dry and warm conditions. Rainfall begins to trickle in, although the amount remains low. High humidity becomes more pronounced, signifying a build-up to the wet season that will officially commence in
June.
Weather in April »Weather in May
In
May,
Banjul witnesses a significant increase in humidity and a gradual rise in rainfall, clear indicators of the impending wet season. Weather patterns signal that the dry and arid atmosphere is starting to recede, paving the way for approaching monsoons.
Weather in May »Weather in June
In this month,
Banjul experiences a full-blown onset of the wet season, with humidity and rainfall levels soaring high. The city records a noticeable surge in sea temperatures, hitting a splendid 27°C (80.6°F). The pleasant sea temperature, the longest daylight duration of the year, and immersive cultural events, make this period appealing for tourists.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The month of
July in
Banjul is typically characterized by peak rainfall levels, reaching up to an expansive 74mm (2.91"). The remarkably high humidity levels and cloud cover create an overall cooler atmosphere, which is a contrast from the city's typically warm climate.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
Banjul presents weather patterns similar to
July, albeit with even more intensity. The city experiences the year's highest rainfall of 177mm (6.97"), highest humidity at 80%, and the greatest cloud cover of 50%. Sea temperatures remain invitingly warm, providing locals and visitors a respite from the heavy monsoon showers.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
Banjul heads towards the final quarter of the year, the weather takes a turn from the intense monsoon experienced in
August. Rainfall levels start to diminish, signaling the gradual retreat of the wet season. The city continues to enjoy long days and abundant sunshine, similar to August.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the transition phase from the chaotic monsoon season towards the calmer dry seasons in
Banjul. Rainfall significantly reduces, paving the way for sunnier skies and drier days. The city continues to experience long days and ample sunshine, presenting opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Come
November,
Banjul officially welcomes the dry season, with humidity levels descending back to 55%. The rainfall further declines, matching the minimal showers experienced at the beginning of the year. In terms of weather extremes, temperatures take a slight hike, reaching 31.8°C (89.2°F) at the maximum.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Closing the year,
Banjul's
December weather sees a further drop in humidity levels and virtually no rainfall, evoking the aridity of
January. The daylight duration experiences a slight reduction, but still offers ample time for sundrenched activities.
Weather in December » [Resources]