September weather forecast
Banjul, The Gambia

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. One key highlight during this period is the decelerating wind speeds to 12.8km/h (8mph), resulting in calmer weather conditions. Despite the changes, the sea remains pleasantly warm at 28°C (82.4°F), providing enjoyable beach atmospheres.

Temperature

The arrival of September brings an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.5°C (85.1°F), closely following the temperature pattern of August. Banjul, during September nights, observes a steady temperature, averaging at a still moderately hot 26.1°C (79°F).

Heat index

The heat index in September is evaluated at a torrid 36°C (96.8°F). Exercise heightened safety, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are probable. Persistent activity may provoke heatstroke.
Records show heat index calculations are tailored for shaded regions and mild winds. Direct sunlight might lead to a heat index increase by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', is a value derived by merging air temperature with the humidity to convey how the climate feels. This effect is personal, influenced by the individual's physical activity and heat sensitivity, shaped by factors including wind, attire, and metabolic variations. Awareness is key; direct sunlight can enhance the weather's impact, possibly boosting the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly important for children. Young individuals are generally in more danger than adults due to their lower capacity to sweat. Moreover, their large skin surface in relation to their small bodies and the increased heat generation from their activities makes them more vulnerable.
Humans rely on perspiration as a cooling mechanism, wherein the evaporating sweat counteracts excessive warmth. When relative humidity is at high levels, the evaporation rate lessens, causing the body to keep more heat than it would in less humid conditions. Elevated heat gain compared to the body's release capability poses risks of dehydration and potential overheating.

Humidity

August and September, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are the most humid months.

Rainfall

In Banjul, during September, the rain falls for 17.6 days and regularly aggregates up to 121mm (4.76") of precipitation. In Banjul, during the entire year, the rain falls for 77 days and collects up to 427mm (16.81") of precipitation.

Sea temperature

July through November, with an average sea temperature of 28°C (82.4°F), are months with the warmest seawater.
Note: Swimming, diving, and other water activities in temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 29°C (84.2°F) are highly enjoyable and provide prolonged comfort without unease.

Daylight

In September, the average length of the day is 12h and 12min.
On the first day of September, sunrise is at 06:54 and sunset at 19:17. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:55 and sunset at 18:56 GMT.

Sunshine

In September, the average sunshine is 8.2h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Banjul are January, April through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: An average maximum UV index of 7 in September leads to these recommendations:
Shield from overexposure. Defense against sun-related harm is required. Avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. Keep in mind that shade structures may not provide complete protection. Employ a hat with a wide brim for robust protection, cutting UV exposure by half. Beware! Reflecting off water and sand, UV rays are much stronger.