The climate of Fajara
Fajara, situated in
The Gambia, embodies the Köppen climate classification of Aw, also known as the tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. This classification encompasses regions with warm temperatures year-round and significant rainfall during the summer.
Throughout the year, Fajara experiences temperatures ranging from a low of 21.7°C (71.1°F) in
February to a high of 31.5°C (88.7°F) in
November. There isn't a massive gap between maximum and minimum temperatures in Fajara, indicating a generally stable climate. Daily sunshine hours slightly fluctuate between 7.3 hours in
August to 9.9 hours in
March,
April, and
May.
Rainfall exhibits a more pronounced variation. No rainfall occurs from November to March, while the wettest period stretches from
July to
September with rainfall levels reaching up to 185mm (7.28") in August. A similar pattern emerges with rainfall days, peaking at 22.6 days in August, diminishing to less than a day during the dry months.
Uniquely, visibility remains constant at 10km (6.2mi) throughout the year. Another interesting element is the UV index which sticks at 7 every month.
The best time to visit Fajara
Considering the weather patterns of the region, the best time to visit
Fajara is during the dry season stretching from
November to
March. Within this period,
January and
February offer the most pleasant conditions, thanks to temperatures oscillating between 21.7°C (71.1°F) to 28.5°C (83.3°F), no rainfall, and almost 10 hours of daily sunlight. These are ideal conditions for sightseeing, outdoor activities and exploring the local wildlife without the hindrance of rainfall.
The worst time to visit Fajara
The period from
July to
September, which extends into a part of the wet season, isn't ideal for visits. The heavy rainfall, uptick in relative humidity reaching up to 80%, and fewer sunshine days (5.5) in
August create conditions that might be challenging for outdoor activities and exploration.
Spring weather in Fajara
Spring, from
March to
May in
Fajara, offers a blend of dry and wet conditions. March and
April are completely dry, while rainfall begins lightly in May with just 5mm (0.2"). Daylight hovers around 12 hours, while temperatures shift from 28.7°C (83.7°F) in March to 27.4°C (81.3°F) in May.
Summer weather in Fajara
Summer, from
June to
August, is typically the wet season. June retains relatively manageable rainfall levels at 15mm (0.59"), but these ramp up significantly in
July and August reaching up to 185mm (7.28"). The daylight hours stay consistent at approximately 12.8 hours, while temperatures range from 28.3°C (82.9°F) in June to 28.9°C (84°F) in August.
Autumn weather in Fajara
Autumn, from
September to
November, encompasses the latter part of the wet season and the transition to the dry season. Rainfall decreases steadily from 124mm (4.88") in September to 2mm (0.08") by November. Meanwhile, temperatures start to rise hitting a yearly peak of 31.5°C (88.7°F) in November.
Winter weather in Fajara
Winter, from
December to
February, falls within the dry season. With almost no rainfall across these months, and temperatures gently cooling to reach their lowest point in February at 21.7°C (71.1°F), the conditions are relatively mild and favorable. December offers the least amount of daylight (around 11.3 hours), whereas by February daylight increases to almost 12 hours.
Weather in January
Considering the climatology of
Fajara,
The Gambia is always a good option to start a weather forecast.
January indicates the commencement of the year with relatively balanced conditions. The city experiences the lowest humidity of the year, at 41%.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As the year edges from
January to
February in
Fajara, the city sustains a warm but more humid pattern. The slight rise in humidity outlines the city's transition towards its wet season. Rather than having a major flip in weather, it smoothly sails between dry and damp conditions.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Come
March, a subtle change continues to occur in
Fajara's weather. Experiencing a bit of rainfall, its residents get a break from the otherwise dry conditions. The third month of the year in Fajara comes with a relative humidity of 54%, indicating an increased presence of water vapor.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Entering into
April,
Fajara continues its transition with some noticeable rainfall of 1mm (0.04"). Most sites in the city are still arid and sunny, but more clouds start gathering. The slight rise in humidity and marginally reduced sunshine hours are precursors to the upcoming peak rainy season.
Weather in April »Weather in May
The month of
May marks another milestone towards the wet season in
Fajara. It has a discernible humidity increase to 70%, making it noticeably muggier. May undergoes a considerable transformation in terms of weather dynamics, from the calm breeze to potential rain showers.
Weather in May »Weather in June
As
Fajara steps into
June, the first half of the year concludes with a weather shift. It experiences the onset of the rainy season, with significant rainfall of 15mm (0.59"). The fluctuation of weather between sunlit and cloudy skies ousts the usual clear blue.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Fajara represents the core period for heavy showers, with rainfall reaching 75mm (2.95"). This high level of precipitation turns roads wet and sometimes muddy. Despite the rain, Fajara sustains a stable atmospheric pressure, proving a testament to enduring weather conditions.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August, the wettest month observed in
Fajara, displays an optimal combination of heavy rainfall of 185mm (7.28") and highest relative humidity at 80%. Maximum rainfall coincides with maximum cloud cover, turning the city’s atmosphere misty and cloudy.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September is yet another month with significant rainfall in
Fajara, recording 124mm (4.88") on average. The tension between dry and wet can be felt as rain-soaked days start making way for sunny skies. As the weather transitions, breezy wind, along with consistent visibility, starts making the weather more enjoyable.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In the heart of fall,
October in
Fajara sees a decrease in rainfall to 29mm (1.14"), hinting at the receding rain showers. With the drop in precipitation, the city also experiences a reduction in cloud cover. Interestingly, atmospheric pressure remains constant, implying continuing stable conditions.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November, with only 2mm (0.08") of rainfall, indicates a move toward more stable, dry conditions in
Fajara. The month is characterized by decreased cloud cover, longer sunshine hours, and reduced humidity. As Fajara moves into November, the familiar, dry and warm climate returns, providing clear skies and agreeable conditions for various outdoor activities. Fajara's warmest temperatures are experienced in November, with average high temperatures of 31.5°C (88.7°F) and lows of 26.3°C (79.3°F). The heat index value during November is estimated at a fiery hot 35°C (95°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Fajara brings a sense of familiar weather pattern, with no rainfall noted. The wind speed also rises to 17.8km/h (11.1mph), adding a cooler touch to the otherwise warm conditions. It signifies the full onset of the dry season with consistent sunshine hours and less cloud cover.
Weather in December »