October weather forecast
Busumbala, The Gambia

As Busumbala steps into October, further retreat of rain is marked with a substantial drop in precipitation to 31mm (1.22"). Visibility improves with less cloud cover and increased sunshine hours. October is a transition period between the monsoon and dry seasons. The city starts to lose its wet-monsoon character, paving the way for clearer skies. Winds start to increase, offering respite from the receding, but still noticeable, humidity.

Temperature

Busumbala's October average high-temperature settles at a tropical 31.2°C (88.2°F), showing a near match with the preceding month. During the month of October, Busumbala's average nighttime temperature closely mirrors its daytime counterpart, at a moderately hot 26.9°C (80.4°F).

Heat index

The heat index value for October is computed to be a torrid 39°C (102.2°F). Greater safety measures are needed, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is high. Continuous activity might trigger heatstroke.
Heat index readings emphasize conditions of light breezes and shaded spots. Under direct sunshine, the heat index values might be elevated by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', gives a temperature feeling by integrating air temperature and humidity. The individual's impression of temperature can be affected by numerous factors such as metabolic variations, physical exertion, and attire. Consider the fact that direct sun exposure can influence how hot one feels, potentially raising the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to babies and toddlers. Younglings are generally more in peril than adults due to their reduced perspiration. Coupled with a larger skin surface relative to their tiny bodies and greater heat production because of their activity, they become more at risk.
The natural cooling mechanism in humans involves perspiration, where the evaporation of sweat balances out excessive warmth. Increased relative humidity slows down evaporation, thereby decreasing the rate of heat removal from the body, culminating in a sensation of overheating. Rising body temperatures resulting from an imbalance in heat absorption can lead to potential thermal issues.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in October in Busumbala is 74%.

Rainfall

In Busumbala, in October, it is raining for 8.5 days, with typically 31mm (1.22") of accumulated precipitation. In Busumbala, during the entire year, the rain falls for 77 days and collects up to 427mm (16.81") of precipitation.

Daylight

The average length of the day in October in Busumbala, The Gambia, is 11h and 50min.
On the first day of October in Busumbala, 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

In Busumbala, the average sunshine in October is 9.6h.

UV index

January, April through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health vulnerability from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: In October, the average maximum UV index of 7 translates into the following recommendations:
Deflect overexposure. Sun protection is a necessity. Avoid direct Sun exposure and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak, but keep in mind that not all shade structures provide complete protection. Stay sun-safe with clothing that is both closely woven and worn loosely.