March weather forecast
Essau, The Gambia

March presents certain atmospheric conditions unique to itself. It signals the return of rainfall, albeit minimal, to the city of Essau, recording an average rainfall of 2mm (0.08") over 0.5 days. Although this month retains a significant amount of sunlight with longer daylight hours, the first hints of elevated humidity levels begin to surface, setting the stage for the rainier months ahead. As the area moves into April, noticeable changes in both temperature and humidity are observed.

Temperature

March's arrival in Essau brings an average high-temperature of a still moderately hot 29.4°C (84.9°F), slightly deviating from February's 29.2°C (84.6°F). During March, the nighttime temperature averages to a pleasant 22°C (71.6°F).

Heat index

In March, the average heat index is calculated to be a hot 30°C (86°F). Extended exposure and activity might lead to tiredness, potentially resulting in heat cramps.
Bear in mind that the heat index values are determined for shaded areas and light breezes. Being under direct sunlight might amplify the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', measures the perceived warmth when incorporating the humidity present in the air. Additional factors encompassing metabolic differences, the level of physical activity, and clothing can impact the individual's perception of temperature. 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 highly critical to babies and toddlers. Young ones are generally at greater risk than adults due to their limited sweating ability. In addition, their large skin surface relative to their small bodies and higher heat production from their activities add to their vulnerability.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in March is 51%.

Rainfall

March through November are months with rainfall. March is the first month it rains. Throughout March, in the average 0.5 rainfall days, it receives 2mm (0.08") of precipitation. Throughout the year, in Essau, there are 77 rainfall days, and 427mm (16.81") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

In Essau, the average length of the day in March is 12h and 4min.
On the first day of March in Essau, sunrise is at 07:21 and sunset at 19:14. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 07:02 and sunset at 19:17 GMT.

Sunshine

The months with the most sunshine are March through May, with an average of 9.9h of sunshine.

UV index

The months with the lowest UV index in Essau are February and March, with an average maximum UV index of 6. A UV Index estimate of 6 to 7 represents a high health hazard from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: In March, the maximum UV index of 6 suggests this advice:
Uphold preventive measures and conform to sun safety guidelines. Defending against skin and eye harm is crucial. Seek shade and minimize exposure to direct Sun in a period between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV radiation is most intense; keep in mind that shade structures like parasols or canopies do not provide perfect sun protection. Equip yourself with UVA and UVB-filtering sunglasses on clear, sunny days.