April weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

A shift in the weather patterns is evident with April’s arrival in Mapaki, Sierra Leone. Transitioning from a dry, heated landscape to a fertile sky raining dust-free waterdrops, Mapaki turns into a juxtaposition of sun and showers. Confirming April’s identity as a distinguishing landmark in the weather calendar, an increase in rainfall to 48mm (1.89") is palpable. Coupled with a marginal drop in temperature and a steady pickup in humidity, April swiftly ushers in the enveloping monsoon. Heading into May, weather features become in sync with the monsoon’s cadence, fueled by the balance between the ever-present sun and frequent showers.

Temperature

The arrival of April in Mapaki coincides with an average high-temperature of a still torrid 37.7°C (99.9°F), indicating a minimal shift from March's 38.4°C (101.1°F). Mapaki records a marked divergence from the day's high temperatures, with nights in April averaging at a warm 24°C (75.2°F).

Heat index

Throughout April, the heat index is estimated at a burning hot 56°C (132.8°F). Warning: These weather conditions are acknowledged as exceedingly risky, heatstroke is unavoidable.
In terms of the heat index, values are set with light wind and shade conditions in mind. The direct sun can potentially cause the heat index to increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'felt air temperature', is a calculation that merges air temperature and relative humidity to depict the sensation of warmth. One's perception of temperature can vary depending on physical activity and individual heat sensitivity, influenced by factors like wind, attire, and metabolic variations. When in direct sunlight, one should be cautious as it can raise the heat index by as much as 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly important for children. Young ones generally face higher dangers than adults since they sweat less. Along with their large skin surface area compared totheir small bodies and increased heat production from their activities, the risks are heightened.
The evaporation of sweat is a natural cooling mechanism of the human body, facilitated by perspiration. Heightened relative humidity interferes with the body's usual cooling mechanism by reducing evaporation, subsequently decreasing the body's cooling rate and increasing the sensation of heat. Excessive heat that's not properly managed leads to increased body temperatures and resultant health issues.

Humidity

In Mapaki, the average relative humidity in April is 63%.

Rainfall

In Mapaki, in April, it is raining for 16.1 days, with typically 48mm (1.89") of accumulated precipitation. In Mapaki, Sierra Leone, during the entire year, the rain falls for 225.8 days and collects up to 1471mm (57.91") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in April is 12h and 19min.
On the first day of April in Mapaki, sunrise is at 06:44 and sunset at 18:57. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:31 and sunset at 18:57 GMT.

Sunshine

In Mapaki, Sierra Leone, the average sunshine in April is 9h.

UV index

January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health hazard from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: The daily high UV index of 7 in April translates into this advice:
Stand by precautions and apply sun safety measures. Evading sunburn is of great importance. Stay in the shade and avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is at its strongest, and remember that parasols or canopies do not offer full protection. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days.