October weather forecast
Brikama, The Gambia

October ushers in the final phase of the wet season in Brikama, with all parameters indicating a definitive shift towards drier conditions. Rainfall amounts taper off rapidly, making way for increased sunshine hours as the cloud cover begins to thin. As rainfall dwindles from 122mm (4.8") in September to 32mm (1.26") in October, a decrease in humidity becomes apparent, improving the overall comfort levels in the city. The continued decrease in daylight hours is a sure sign of the impending dry season.

Temperature

The initiation of October records an average high-temperature of a hot 30.3°C (86.5°F), displaying a near consistency with the previous month. An average nighttime temperature of 27.5°C (81.5°F) marks October.

Heat index

For most parts of October, the heat index is calculated to be a very hot 37°C (98.6°F). Adopt heightened preventive measures, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are probable. Persistent activity could lead to heatstroke.
Take into consideration that the heat index values are calculated for shade and light wind conditions. Heat index values may rise by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees when exposed to direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', stands as a testimony to how temperature and humidity combine to impact our sense of warmth. An individual's perception of weather can be swayed by a variety of elements including metabolic differences, pregnancy status, and their level of physical exertion. Do note, being directly under sun rays can amplify the heat you feel, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are essentially critical for children. Youngsters typically face more danger than adults since they sweat less. Their larger skin surface compared to their small bodies and heightened heat production from their activities augment their vulnerability.
The innate cooling system of the human body revolves around perspiration, with the evaporation of sweat being central to this process. Higher relative humidity impedes evaporation, thus reducing heat dispersion from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. Temperature imbalances caused by excessive heat retention can trigger heat-related maladies.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in October is 75%.

Rainfall

In Brikama, in October, it is raining for 8.9 days, with typically 32mm (1.26") of accumulated precipitation. In Brikama, during the entire year, the rain falls for 80.9 days and collects up to 436mm (17.17") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Brikama, the average length of the day in October is 11h and 50min.
On the first day of October, sunrise is at 06:55 and sunset at 18:56. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 07:00 and sunset at 18:39 GMT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in October is 9.6h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are May through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index of 7 during October translates into these guidelines:
Inhibit overexposure. Warding off sun damage is of utmost importance. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., UV radiation is strongest. Make an effort to avoid direct sunlight during this time, remembering that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. A wide-brimmed hat is a staple for defending the face, eyes, ears, and neck from the Sun.