August weather forecast
Busumbala, The Gambia

August continues with high rainfall volumes, recording the year's maximum amount of 177mm (6.97"). This is coupled with the highest percentage of cloud cover and relative humidity, reflecting the intensity of the monsoon in Busumbala. Decrease in sunshine hours is noticed, correlating with the dense cloud cover. Winds remain mild and despite being the wettest month, the temperature stays within the typical range for the city. The month presents a classic monsoon scenario with intense rain and high atmospheric moisture levels.

Temperature

Transitioning from July to August, Busumbala observes an average high-temperature of a still warm 29.1°C (84.4°F), differing subtly from the previous month. A consistent nighttime average temperature of 26.1°C (79°F) is maintained in Busumbala during August.

Heat index

For August, the heat index is computed to be a sweltering 35°C (95°F). Undertake extra safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are expected. Heatstroke may result from lengthy activity.
The metrics for the heat index are tailored for both shady environments and light winds. Exposure to the direct sun might augment heat index values by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', joins air temperature with relative humidity to produce a temperature perception for humans. 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. By being directly under the sun, it's possible for the felt temperature to increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are quite important for children. Young ones often underestimate the need for rest and rehydration. Thirst appears late in dehydration - hence, it is important to keep hydrated, particularly during prolonged physical activities.
One of the main methods the human body employs to cool down is by perspiring, as this process allows sweat to evaporate and remove excess heat. With an abundance of moisture present in the air, the process of evaporation becomes less effective, and the body fails to cool down as it should, leading to the sensation of overheating. If heat absorption exceeds the body's cooling ability, body temperature can elevate, resulting in potential thermal illnesses.

Humidity

August and September, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are the most humid months.

Rainfall

The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 21.6 days and typically aggregates up to 177mm (6.97") of precipitation.

Daylight

In August, the average length of the day in Busumbala is 12h and 33min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:51 and sunset at 19:34. On the last day of August, in Busumbala, The Gambia, sunrise is at 06:55 and sunset at 19:18 GMT.

Sunshine

With an average of 7.3h of sunshine, August has the least sunshine of the year.

UV index

January, April through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Busumbala. A UV Index estimate of 6 to 7 represents a high health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: The average daily UV index of 7 in August transforms into the following instructions:
Take precautions against overexposure. Protection against sun damage is needed. Stay in the shade and limit direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a time when UV radiation is particularly strong. Remember, however, that shade structures may not provide complete protection. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days.