August weather forecast
Kanifing, The Gambia

In Kanifing, the month of August is characterized by a peak in monsoon activity, where there is a whopping 177mm (6.97") of rainfall recorded. On the bright side, despite the significant rain, the temperatures remain higher with the gusts of wind marginally decreasing. Cloud cover remains abundantly through the month, limiting the sunshine substantially. The humidity levels peak, making the weather a combination of warmth and moisture. In summary, August portrays the essence of the monsoon with abundant showers and elevated humidity.

Temperature

Kanifing's average high-temperature in August sits at a still moderately hot 29.1°C (84.4°F), showing little difference from the previous month. An average nighttime temperature of 26.1°C (79°F) marks August.

Heat index

In August, the heat index is appraised at a sweltering 35°C (95°F). Greater safety measures are needed, risk of heat exhaustion and heat cramps is high. Continuous activity might trigger heatstroke.
From a standpoint of the heat index, values pertain to shaded conditions and mild breezes. Exposure to the direct sun could elevate the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is found by incorporating humidity levels into the air temperature measurement. The impact of weather is personal, differing among a variety of people based on differences in body mass, height, and the level of physical exertion. Direct sun exposure is noteworthy in its ability to escalate the felt temperature, potentially adding 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees to the heat index. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Children frequently underestimate the importance of resting and drinking fluids. Thirst is a symptom of advanced dehydration - hence the need to hydrate regularly, especially during protracted physical exercises.
For the human body, perspiration is the go-to method to regulate temperature, using sweat's evaporation to dissipate warmth. An elevated level of relative humidity hinders evaporation, leading to decreased heat elimination from the body, inducing a sensation of excess heat. Potential thermal conditions emerge as the body's heat gain outpaces its cooling mechanisms.

Humidity

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

Rainfall

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

Daylight

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

Sunshine

August has the least sunshine of the year in Kanifing, with an average of 7.3h of sunshine.

UV index

January, April through December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the ordinary person.
Note: In August, a daily maximum UV index of 7 leads to the following instructions:
Sidestep overexposure. Individuals with fair complexions risk burning in fewer than 20 minutes. Stay in the shade and avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a period when UV radiation is particularly strong, noting that parasols or canopies may not offer total sun protection. Employ a wide-brim hat for potent defense against up to 50% of UV rays.