The climate of Matam
Matam, a lively city in
Senegal, finds itself enveloped within the demanding sphere of the Subtropical Desert, tagged with the Köppen climate classification of BWh. This geographical location dictates the year-round climate conditions, characterized by high temperatures and a notable scarcity of rainfall throughout the year.
The distinct feature of Matam's climate, without doubt, lies in its persistent warmth. A quick glance at the temperature distribution reveals monthly high temperatures that soar from 32.5°C (90.5°F) in
January to an intense 42.7°C (108.9°F) in
May. Even the cooler akternatives do not provide much respite, as monthly low temperatures fluctuate in the range from 19.4°C (66.9°F) to 29.5°C (85.1°F). Humidity remains consistently low, with the exception of the months from
June to
September when relative humidity rises up from 25% to 47%.
Rainfall showcases an annually recurrent pattern, being absent for the majority of the year. The limited rainfall is reserved only for the period from June to September, with
August receiving the maximum rainfall of 57mm (2.24"). Matam experiences at best moderate winds throughout the year, with the highest gusts reaching up to 27.1km/h (16.8mph) in
December—the windiest month.
The best time to visit Matam
Consider visiting
Matam in the window from
November to
February. During these months, Matam experiences moderate temperatures, with highs hovering around 32.5°C (90.5°F) to 36.8°C (98.2°F), and lows ranging from 19.4°C (66.9°F) to 25.8°C (78.4°F). Rainfall is practically nonexistent, and the relative humidity is at its lowest, around 14% - 17%.
The worst time to visit Matam
The harsh summer months from
May to
September are conventionally considered the worst time to visit
Matam. The scorching heat, coupled with mercury levels soaring up to 41.8°C (107.2°F) to 42.7°C (108.9°F), makes outdoor activity intolerable. Moreover, the relative humidity spikes up to 47% in
August.
Spring weather in Matam
Spring in
Matam, occurring from
March to
May, marks a steady and significant increase in temperatures. High temperatures ramp up from 38.3°C (100.9°F) in March to a searing 42.7°C (108.9°F) in May. Correspondingly, the nights grow warmer too, with low temperatures shooting up from 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 28.8°C (83.8°F).
Summer weather in Matam
Summers in
Matam, spanning from
June to
September, are hot, humid and the city's wettest season. High temperatures remain consistent, wavering between 41.8°C (107.2°F) in June and 37.3°C (99.1°F) in
August. Rainfall during this period ranges from 5mm (0.2") in June to a peak of 57mm (2.24") in August, providing slight relief from the scorching heat.
Autumn weather in Matam
Autumn in
Matam, covering
October and
November, witnesses a marked drop in temperatures and rainfall. October observes high temperatures around 39.7°C (103.5°F), which shrink to 36.8°C (98.2°F) in November. The rainfall, near 7mm (0.28") in October, virtually disappears by November.
Winter weather in Matam
Winter in
Matam, extending from
December to
February, truly is a more forgiving season. The high temperature in December is about 33.3°C (91.9°F), which falls slightly to 32.5°C (90.5°F) by February. Moreover, the city receives practically no rainfall in this period and also experiences a reduction in wind gusts to 21.9km/h (13.6mph) in
January from 27.1km/h (16.8mph) in December.
Weather in January
As the new year begins,
Matam experiences temperatures ranging from 19.4°C (66.9°F) to 32.5°C (90.5°F). The weather this month is known for its refreshing breeze, making outdoor activities enjoyable. Matam is marked by clear skies in
January and optimal visibility, offering sightseers unobstructed views of the city's landmarks.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather in
February is slightly warmer compared to
January, with temperatures ranging from 21°C (69.8°F) to 34.9°C (94.8°F).
Matam enjoys plentiful sunshine this month, with only a slight increase in cloud cover from the previous month.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In contrast to
February,
March brings a subtle shift in weather conditions with temperatures fluctuating between 23.4°C (74.1°F) and 38.3°C (100.9°F). This month experiences the least cloud cover in
Matam, accounting for clear and sunny skies.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant change in weather conditions, accommodating the highest temperatures of the year between 26.2°C (79.2°F) and 41.1°C (106°F).
Matam experiences longer daylight hours during this period, allowing for extended outdoor activities.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May weather patterns depict the beginning of the warmer seasons, with temperatures ranging from 28.8°C (83.8°F) to 42.7°C (108.9°F), similar to
April. Warming trends continue through this month, yet the city endures a gradual rise in humidity levels as compared to the previous month.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June, temperatures alleviate slightly, ranging from 29.2°C (84.6°F) to 41.8°C (107.2°F). This month marks the beginning of the monsoon season, with
Matam experiencing an increase in rainfall. Coupled with the dropping temperatures, the rainfall offers a refreshing change, breaking the persistent heat.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is characterized by a noted decrease in temperature, fluctuating between 29°C (84.2°F) and 38.9°C (102°F). This month witnesses the highest rainfall, serving as a reprieve from the typical arid conditions in
Matam. The city's weather also exhibits the highest levels of humidity this month, offering a unique blend of warmth and moisture.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The weather in
August is similar to
July, with temperatures ranging from 29°C (84.2°F) to 37.3°C (99.1°F). The rainfall begins to lessen this month, while humidity remains relatively high. Despite the reduction in rainfall, the monsoon season persists, evoking a cooler ambience compared to earlier months.
Weather in August »Weather in September
In
September, the post-monsoon period brings temperatures between 29.3°C (84.7°F) and 38.4°C (101.1°F). This month is characterized by decreased rainfall, marking the end of the monsoon season. With the conclusion of monsoons,
Matam returns to its characteristically dry conditions.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Matam witnesses a fall in temperature, with a range from 29.5°C (85.1°F) to 39.7°C (103.5°F). The weather continues to be dry, reminiscent of the pre-monsoon period. Apart from the dipping temperature, the city experiences excellent visibility, providing optimal conditions for scenic views.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Matam offers ever colder weather, with temperatures fluctuating between 25.8°C (78.4°F) to 36.8°C (98.2°F). This month is recognized for its outstanding visibility, providing an unmatched view of the city's picturesque landscapes.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December,
Matam experiences the coldest weather of the year with temperatures ranging from 21.1°C (70°F) to 33.3°C (91.9°F). The month is known for its cooler temperatures, clear skies, and optimal visibility conditions.
Weather in December »