September weather forecast
Essau, The Gambia

September signals the decline of the monsoon period in Essau. A significant break in the rainfall pattern takes place as the city records a decrease to an average of 121mm (4.76") spread over approximately 18 days. This period sees a drop in overall cloud cover, which in turn leads to the re-emergence of the sun. Moving into October, the climate becomes markedly drier, drawing clear distinctions to the just-ended wet season.

Temperature

With September's arrival, Essau's weather records an average high-temperature of a still warm 29.5°C (85.1°F), marking little difference from August's 29.1°C (84.4°F). Essau records a consistent average nighttime temperature of 26.1°C (79°F) in September, slightly lower than the daytime high.

Heat index

In September, the average heat index is calculated to be a torrid 36°C (96.8°F). Implement additional preventive actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are potential hazards. Heatstroke could follow prolonged activity.
The standards for the heat index are set for locations in shade and under light breezes. The heat index values could be amplified by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'apparent temperature', is what the temperature feels like to the human body when the air temperature is combined with the relative humidity. Elements such as metabolic variations, pregnancy, and physical exertion can influence one's weather perception. It is essential to be conscious of the fact that direct sunlight can intensify the felt heat, leading to an elevation in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely significant for children. Kids generally face higher risks than adults as they sweat less. Along with their large skin surface compared to their small bodies and higher heat production due to their activities, their vulnerability is increased.
Evaporation of sweat is the main factor behind the cooling effect of perspiration in the human body. An elevated level of relative humidity hinders evaporation, leading to decreased heat elimination from the body, inducing a sensation of excess heat. Excessive heat gain, when not shed effectively by the body, can result in increasing body temperatures and related hazards.

Humidity

The months with the highest humidity in Essau, The Gambia, are August and September, with an average relative humidity of 80%.

Rainfall

In September, the rain falls for 17.6 days. Throughout September, 121mm (4.76") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 77 rainfall days, and 427mm (16.81") of precipitation is accumulated.

Daylight

In Essau, the average length of the day in September is 12h and 12min.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:54 and sunset at 19:17. On the last day of September, in Essau, sunrise is at 06:55 and sunset at 18:56 GMT.

Sunshine

In September, the average sunshine in Essau is 8.2h.

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 hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index of 7 during September translates into these guidelines:
Follow precautions and abide by sun safety rules. Deterrence of sunburn is imperative. 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. A wide-brimmed hat provides unparalleled sun protection for sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, and neck.