October signals the return of dry conditions in
Ouagadougou, with rainfall plummeting dramatically to 33mm (1.3"). Despite the lowering rainfall, temperatures and humidity remain relatively high. Simultaneously, the UV index stagiars to a slightly lower 11. The amount of daylight begins to fall, mirroring the reducing solar intensity. October's weather paves the way for the approaching dry season.
Temperature
October's arrival brings a slight change in high-temperatures, adjusting from a tropical 32°C (89.6°F) in
September to a very hot 35.4°C (95.7°F). October nights show a substantial disparity from the daytime peak with an average low-temperature of 22.5°C (72.5°F).
Heat index
During October, the heat index is evaluated at a burning hot 45°C (113°F).
Heed: Expect heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Continued action may cause heatstroke.
Be advised, the heat index considers values for conditions in shade and with a light breeze. The heat index may experience an enhancement of 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees under direct sunlight.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'feels like', is an estimation of the warmth sensation when considering humidity levels. Elements such as metabolic variations, being pregnant, and physical activity can impact one's weather perception. It is noteworthy to mention that direct sunlight exposure can augment the felt temperature, leading to an increase in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are especially vital to children. Young people are generally more susceptible than adults because they perspire less. Furthermore, their proportionally larger skin surface to their petite bodies and the increased heat output from their actions add to the risk.
The primary way humans combat excessive warmth is by perspiring, letting sweat evaporate and cool the body. An increase in relative humidity retards evaporation, subsequently reducing the body's heat removal rate and leading to a sensation of being overly warm. Rising body temperatures resulting from an imbalance in heat absorption can lead to potential thermal issues.
Humidity
In Ouagadougou, the average relative humidity in October is 58%.
Rainfall
In Ouagadougou, during October, the rain falls for 1.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 33mm (1.3") of precipitation. Throughout the year, there are 35.2 rainfall days, and 788mm (31.02") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
The average length of the day in October is 11h and 51min.
On the first day of October, sunrise is at 05:55 and sunset at 17:55. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:58 and sunset at 17:40 GMT.
Sunshine
The months with the most sunshine are
January through
March,
May, October and
November, with an average of 9h of sunshine.
UV index
In October, the average daily maximum UV index is 11. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an extreme health hazard from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for ordinary individuals.
Note: In October, the UV index of 11 transforms into the following advice:
Undertake all key precautions, as unprotected skin and eyes may get burns in no time. UV radiation from the Sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this period. Shield yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation with sun-protective attire, a hat, and quality sunglasses. Applying and reapplying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 after every two hours, outdoor workout, or swim is recommended.