October weather forecast
Bansang, The Gambia

October marks the beginning of the much-awaited dryer days, as the effects of the rainy season start to recede in Bansang. A significant drop in rainfall levels from 142mm (5.59") to 37mm (1.46") in just one month signals the exit of the monsoon. The month comes with a blend of warm weather and pleasant breezes. Cloud coverage reduces to 24% and the level of humidity drops to 70%, indicating the onset of dryer conditions. The wind speed sees a decline, adding to the serene atmosphere of the autumn season.

Temperature

October brings a slight increase in the average high-temperature, progressing from a hot 32.1°C (89.8°F) in September to a torrid 35.8°C (96.4°F). Bansang's nights during October are marked by a pronounced drop from daytime temperatures, experiencing an average low of 23.5°C (74.3°F).

Heat index

The average heat index in October is evaluated at a burning hot 53°C (127.4°F). Mindful: Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are to be expected. Extended physical effort might result in heatstroke.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. The direct sun can potentially cause the heat index to increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human-perceived temperature equivalent. A person's impression of weather can be swayed by numerous aspects, among them metabolic variations, pregnancy, and activity levels. Understand that direct sun rays can influence the weather's impact, leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly meaningful for babies and toddlers. Youths are typically more endangered than adults since they usually sweat less. Their larger skin surface concerning their smaller bodies and higher heat production due to activity further adds to their vulnerability.
The innate cooling system of the human body revolves around perspiration, with the evaporation of sweat being central to this process. Under high air temperature and humidity (high heat index) conditions, perspiration is limited, and the perception of heat is increased. With body temperatures on the rise, inefficient heat shedding can lead to dehydration and its associated complications.

Humidity

In October, the average relative humidity is 70%.

Rainfall

In Bansang, during October, the rain falls for 11.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 37mm (1.46") of precipitation. In Bansang, during the entire year, the rain falls for 107.8 days and collects up to 540mm (21.26") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Bansang, the average length of the day in October is 11h and 50min.
On the first day of October in Bansang, sunrise is at 06:47 and sunset at 18:48. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:52 and sunset at 18:31 GMT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in October is 9.5h.

UV index

In October, the average daily maximum UV index is 7. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: The maximum daily UV index of 7 during October translates into the following directions:
Stay clear of intense sun exposure. Solar protection is of utmost significance. It's important to stay in the shade and limit exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, although remember that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. For effective sun eye protection, rely on sunglasses certified for UVA and UVB resistance.