December weather forecast
Mapaki, Sierra Leone

Closing the year in Mapaki, Sierra Leone, December symbolizes the definitive arrival of the dry season. The skies clear up, the sun takes the center stage, and the landscapes bask in the returning heat. January waits just around the corner with an identical weather pattern, mirroring December's warm, dry conditions. A bit of trivia - the nearly absent rainfall, averaging merely 3mm (0.12"), marks December as the driest month of the year. Wrapping up the year with characteristic tropical flair, December pays a fitting tribute to Mapaki's sun-drenched soil.

Temperature

As November turns into December in Mapaki, the average high-temperatures rest at a still hot 33.1°C (91.6°F), showing a minor variation from the prior month. In Mapaki, the nighttime temperature registers a significant drop from daytime peaks to an average of 19.7°C (67.5°F) in December.

Heat index

The average heat index in December is calculated to be a blisteringly hot 42°C (107.6°F). Apply extra caution, heat cramps and heat exhaustion could happen. Heatstroke might occur with long-duration activity.
Understand that the heat index values take into account shaded locations and mild winds. Exposure to the direct sun might augment heat index values by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'apparent temperature', reflects the feeling of heat when considering both air temperature and humidity. The effect is experienced differently by individuals, hinging on unique characteristics such as body mass, stature, and level of activity. 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 are quite important for children. Children often overlook the necessity for resting and fluid replenishment. Thirst is a late sign of dehydration - thus, it is critical to stay hydrated, especially during extended periods of physical activities.
Perspiration is the human body's physiological response to high temperatures and is an attempt to lower body temperature through evaporation of sweat. Elevated relative humidity disrupts typical body cooling by reducing the evaporation rate, consequently decreasing the body's cooling rate and enhancing the feeling of heat. When body temperature rises due to excess heat gain beyond its removal capability, one might experience heat-related disorders.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in December in Mapaki is 66%.

Rainfall

The month with the least rainfall is December, when the rain falls for 3.2 days and typically collects 3mm (0.12") of precipitation.

Daylight

With an average of 11h and 36min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:47 and sunset at 18:26. On the last day of December, sunrise is at 07:02 and sunset at 18:39 GMT.

Sunshine

The average sunshine in December is 9.5h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index are January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index, 7 during December, leads to the following recommendations:
Deflect overexposure. Sun protection is a necessity. The Sun's UV radiation is most potent between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this time. Limit sun-induced ocular harm with sunglasses that feature UVA and UVB filtration.