August weather forecast
Bwiam, The Gambia

August continues the rainy season, shrouding Bwiam, The Gambia, in a dense cloud cover as heavy rains continue to pour. The heavy rainfall of 188mm (7.4"), the highest recorded in the year, shapes the month's events as locals and tourists adapt to the wetter conditions. Temperatures begin to decrease gradually, but the considerable humidity keeps the environment warm. Daylight hours reduce slightly. The more stormy weather also makes it an off-peak travel season, resulting in quieter tourist sites.

Temperature

August is the coldest month in Bwiam, with an average high-temperature of 31.5°C (88.7°F) and an average low-temperature of 25°C (77°F).

Heat index

In August, the heat index is evaluated at a scorching 42°C (107.6°F). Exercise special caution, heat exhaustion and heat cramps are probable. Prolonged activity may induce heatstroke.
Research indicates the heat index considers values in shaded locales and with light winds. Direct sunlight exposure may result in a rise of the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', combines air temperature and relative humidity to represent a human perceived temperature equivalent. An individual's perception of weather can be affected by a variety of elements including metabolic differences, being pregnant, and their level of physical exertion. It is noteworthy that being in direct sunlight can enhance the weather's impact, raising the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values remain especially vital for babies and toddlers. Children are often less aware of the need to rest and re-hydrate. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - it's vital to remain hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
Perspiring is how the human body naturally cools down, as sweat's evaporation takes away excess heat. In the presence of elevated relative humidity, the evaporation rate decreases. This reduction leads to increased body heat retention compared to conditions of dry air. Heat disorders may be on the horizon when body temperatures rise from inadequate heat management.

Humidity

In Bwiam, the average relative humidity in August is 78%.

Rainfall

The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 22.4 days and typically aggregates up to 188mm (7.4") of precipitation.

Daylight

In Bwiam, the average length of the day in August is 12h and 33min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:49 and sunset at 19:31. On the last day of August, sunrise is at 06:53 and sunset at 19:15 GMT.

Sunshine

With an average of 6.9h of sunshine, August has the least sunshine of the year.

UV index

The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, June through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high threat to health from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: An average UV index of 7 in August transforms into this advice:
Elude overexposure. Fair-skinned people could get burnt in less than 20 minutes. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight and seek shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, but remember that shade structures may not offer complete protection. Clothes that are both tight-knit and comfortably loose are prime choices for sun protection.