Abengourou Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Côte d’Ivoire

Temperature and Humidity:

Abengourou experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March. The average annual temperature hovers around 27°C (80°F), with little variation throughout the year. During the wet season, temperatures are slightly higher, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while temperatures drop slightly to around 25°C (77°F) during the dry season. Humidity levels are consistently high throughout the year, often reaching above 80% during the wet season and remaining around 60-70% during the dry season.

Rainfall and Sunshine:

Abengourou receives an average of 1,500 mm (59 in) of rainfall annually. The wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall, with June and July being the wettest months. During this time, it is common to experience thunderstorms and torrential downpours. In contrast, the dry season is relatively dry, with little to no rainfall. Abengourou also enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 6-8 hours of sunshine daily. The sun is strongest during the dry season, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Monthly Average Temperatures

Abengourou’s monthly average temperatures fluctuate throughout the year. The hottest months are March and April, with average highs hovering around 34°C (93°F). The coolest months are August and September, when average lows dip to around 22°C (72°F).

Diurnal Temperature Variations

Diurnal temperature variations, or the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures, are relatively small in Abengourou. The average daily temperature range is approximately 10°C (18°F), with temperatures typically rising to their peak in the afternoon and cooling down at night. This relatively mild diurnal range contributes to the overall comfortable climate of the city.

Seasonal Temperature Trends

Abengourou experiences two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season runs from December to February, during which temperatures are generally higher and rainfall is scarce. The rainy season spans from April to November, bringing with it increased rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. The average annual rainfall in Abengourou is approximately 1,200 mm (47 in).

Cloud Cover

Abengourou, located in central Côte d’Ivoire, experiences year-round cloud cover, with significant variations throughout the year. The city’s climate is characterized by a humid tropical savanna climate, resulting in frequent rainfall and high humidity levels. During the wet season, from April to October, cloud cover is typically extensive, with thick cumulonimbus clouds producing heavy downpours. The dry season, from November to March, brings less cloud cover, although thin cirrus clouds often persist. However, the city’s proximity to the Atlantic coast also influences cloud patterns, with occasional incursions of marine clouds.

Types of Clouds

The cloud formations observed over Abengourou are diverse, ranging from towering cumulus clouds to delicate cirrus veils. During the wet season, towering cumulonimbus clouds dominate the skies, often bringing thunderstorms and hail. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance, are also common. As the dry season approaches, these clouds gradually diminish, giving way to mid-level clouds such as altostratus and altocumulus. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, are frequently visible throughout the year, forming high above the Earth’s surface and indicating fair weather.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Abengourou, located in Côte d’Ivoire, experiences pronounced seasonal variations in precipitation. The wet season extends from April to October, reaching its peak during June and July. During these months, heavy rainfall is common, with monthly precipitation often exceeding 200 mm. The dry season, on the other hand, runs from November to March and is characterized by significantly reduced rainfall. Monthly precipitation during the dry season typically remains below 50 mm.

Interannual Variability and Climate Change

Abengourou’s precipitation patterns have exhibited some interannual variability in recent decades. While the seasonal cycle described above remains generally consistent, the timing and intensity of rainfall have shown variations. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of climate change on precipitation in the region. Climate models predict a slight increase in annual precipitation in Abengourou over the coming century. However, these changes are likely to be accompanied by increased variability, leading to more frequent extreme rainfall events with longer droughts in between. Scientists continue to monitor precipitation patterns in Abengourou and the broader region to better understand these changes and their implications for water resources, agriculture, and human populations.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire, experiences a tropical climate characterized by abundant rainfall. The annual average rainfall ranges from 1,200 to 1,400 millimeters (mm), with the wet season extending from April to October. The peak rainfall period occurs in June, July, and August, when monthly precipitation can exceed 200 mm. During the dry season (November to March), rainfall is relatively scarce, with average monthly totals typically below 50 mm.

Seasonal Variations and Impact

The seasonal variations in rainfall have a significant impact on the local environment and economy. The heavy rainfall during the wet season supports lush vegetation and creates favorable conditions for agriculture. However, excessive rainfall can lead to flooding in low-lying areas. During the dry season, the lack of rainfall can result in droughts and reduced agricultural productivity. To mitigate these effects, local farmers often employ irrigation techniques to supplement rainfall and ensure stable crop yields throughout the year.

Historical Occurrence

Snowfall is an extremely rare phenomenon in Côte d’Ivoire, a tropical country located in West Africa. Abengourou, a city in the southeastern part of the country, has never recorded snowfall in its history. The average temperature in Abengourou ranges from 22°C to 32°C throughout the year, with no significant fluctuations that could support the formation of snow.

Climatic Conditions

The climate of Abengourou is characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from April to October. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Guinea influences its weather patterns, bringing warm, moist air that prevents the formation of icy conditions. The lack of snowfall is further exacerbated by the absence of high-altitude areas around Abengourou, which would provide the necessary elevation and cold temperatures for snow formation.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Sunrise and sunset times in Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt on its axis. During the summer months (May to July), the sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets close to 6:30 PM, providing approximately 12.5 hours of daylight. In contrast, during the winter months (November to January), sunrise occurs around 6:30 AM and sunset by 5:45 PM, resulting in shorter daylight hours of around 11.5 hours.

Sunlight Duration

The duration of sunlight in Abengourou also varies seasonally. From April to September, the city experiences an average of 9-10 hours of sunlight per day, reaching a peak of approximately 12 hours during June and July. During the dry season (November to March), the average sunlight duration decreases to around 7-8 hours per day, dipping to a minimum of 6 hours in December and January. The decreased sunlight during the dry season is primarily due to the presence of harmattan winds, which carry dust particles that block sunlight.

Phases of the Moon in Abengourou

The Moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits Earth. In Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire, the phases of the moon are influenced by the city’s location in the Northern Hemisphere. During the new moon phase, the Moon is not visible from Earth, as it is positioned between Earth and the Sun. As the Moon moves around Earth, it becomes visible again in the form of a crescent moon. Over the next few days, the illuminated portion of the Moon gradually increases, reaching the first quarter phase. At this point, half of the Moon is visible from Earth. As the Moon continues to orbit, the illuminated portion keeps expanding until the full moon phase is reached. During the full moon, the entire face of the Moon is illuminated and visible from Earth. The Moon then goes through the same phases in reverse order, returning to the new moon phase and starting the cycle again.

Moon’s Position and Influence on Abengourou

The Moon’s position in the sky varies depending on the time of day and year. In Abengourou, the Moon can appear high in the sky during the night, or low on the horizon, depending on its phase. The Moon’s orbit around Earth also influences the tides in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. During a full moon or new moon, the gravitational pull of the Moon and the Sun combine to create high tides and low tides. These tidal forces can affect the flow of water in rivers and lagoons around Abengourou, influencing fishing and water transportation activities. Additionally, the Moon’s phases have been observed to influence the behavior of certain animal species in the region, such as nocturnal predators becoming more active during the full moon.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Abengourou’s humidity levels exhibit distinct seasonal patterns. During the dry season, from December to March, humidity remains relatively low, averaging around 60-70%. Conversely, during the rainy season, which spans from April to November, humidity rises significantly. During this period, humidity levels soar to an average of 85-90%, creating a humid and often oppressive atmosphere. The highest humidity levels are typically experienced between June and September, coinciding with the peak of the rainy season.

Temporal Variations in Humidity

In addition to seasonal variations, humidity levels in Abengourou also fluctuate throughout the day. During the early morning hours, humidity tends to be at its lowest, with levels often dropping below 60%. As the day progresses, humidity gradually increases, reaching its peak in the late afternoon or early evening. During these hours, humidity levels often exceed 90%, contributing to a feeling of discomfort and lethargy. After sunset, humidity levels generally decline, providing some relief from the oppressive atmosphere.

Wind Patterns

Abengourou, a city in southeastern Côte d’Ivoire, experiences predominantly easterly winds throughout the year. The easterly wind pattern is influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which is a low-pressure zone near the equator that shifts northward and southward with the seasons. During the wet season (April-October), when the ITCZ is located north of Abengourou, the easterly winds bring moisture-laden air from the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in frequent rainfall.

Seasonal Variations

The intensity of the easterly winds in Abengourou varies depending on the season. During the harmattan season (November-March), when the ITCZ is located south of the city, the easterly winds weaken and can sometimes shift to a northeasterly direction. The harmattan winds bring dry, dust-laden air from the Sahara Desert, leading to hazy conditions and reduced visibility. The transition between the wet and dry seasons is often characterized by a period of variable wind directions and speed, known as the monsoon.

Dry Season (November to April):

Winter is regarded as the ideal time to visit Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire, spanning from November to April. This coincides with the dry season, which is characterized by warm and dry conditions, with average temperatures hovering around 26-32°C (79-90°F) during the day. The skies are generally clear, providing ample sunshine for outdoor activities. The humidity levels are relatively low, making it more comfortable to explore the city and its surroundings. The dry season is also a great time to catch local cultural festivals and events, as they often take place during this time of the year.

Rainy Season (May to October):

Summer in Abengourou, spanning from May to October, presents a different experience due to the arrival of the rainy season. The city experiences heavy rainfall during this period, often accompanied by thunderstorms. While the average temperatures remain warm, ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F), the high humidity levels can make it feel hotter and more uncomfortable. The skies are often overcast, with limited sunlight available. The heavy rains can occasionally cause flooding in some areas, making it important to be prepared for potential travel disruptions. Nevertheless, the rainy season offers its own unique charm, as the city’s vegetation flourishes and the surrounding landscapes become lush and green.

Potential and Feasibility

Abengourou, situated in southeastern Côte d’Ivoire, possesses significant potential for solar energy utilization. The city enjoys high levels of sunshine throughout the year, with an average daily global solar radiation of over 5 kWh/m². This abundance of solar energy makes Abengourou an ideal location for implementing photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate clean, renewable electricity. Furthermore, the city has a relatively developed infrastructure, making it conducive to the installation and operation of solar projects.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the potential, Abengourou faces certain challenges in developing its solar energy sector. The high upfront costs associated with PV installations can be a barrier for some businesses and households. Additionally, the limited availability of skilled labor in the solar industry may slow down project implementation. However, there are opportunities to overcome these challenges. Government incentives and subsidies can make solar projects more accessible financially. Investing in solar training programs can develop a local workforce and ensure the sustainability of the industry. By leveraging these opportunities, Abengourou can unlock its solar energy potential and reap the benefits of clean, affordable electricity.

City of Abengourou

Abengourou is a city in southeastern Côte d’Ivoire, near the Ghanaian border. Located at an average elevation of 260 meters (850 feet) above sea level, the city enjoys a relatively flat topography. However, there are a few minor hills that provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The Bandama River, a major river in Côte d’Ivoire, flows approximately 20 kilometers to the east of Abengourou. The city’s terrain is predominantly comprised of savanna grasslands, with scattered patches of tropical forest. The soil in the area is generally fertile and well-drained, making it suitable for agricultural activities.

Abengourou Region

The Abengourou region, in which the city is situated, exhibits a more varied topography. The western portion of the region is characterized by a series of rolling hills and low mountains, rising to elevations of up to 500 meters (1,600 feet). This area is home to various natural reserves, including the Marahoué National Park and the Haut-Sassandra National Park. The eastern part of the region, toward the border with Ghana, features a more level terrain. This area is dominated by savanna grasslands and is extensively used for agriculture. The Bandama River and its tributaries drain much of the region, providing a crucial water source for both human and wildlife populations.

Airport Information

The nearest airport to Abengourou, Côte d’Ivoire, is Bouaké Airport (BYK), located approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) southwest of the city. The airport is served by a limited number of domestic flights, operated by Air Côte d’Ivoire. There are no direct international flights to Bouaké Airport, so passengers connecting from outside the country will need to transfer at another airport, such as Abidjan’s Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport (ABJ).

Ground Transportation

Once at Bouaké Airport, travelers can hire a taxi or rent a car to travel to Abengourou. The journey by road typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Additionally, there are regular public transportation options available, such as buses and minivans. However, these may be less frequent and less comfortable than taxis or rental cars. To ensure a smooth and timely arrival in Abengourou, it is advisable to pre-book transportation or inform the hotel or local contacts of your flight arrival time.

Abengourou, City of the Indénié:

Abengourou is a vibrant city located in the southeastern region of Côte d’Ivoire. Serving as the capital of the Indénié-Djuablin District, it is a bustling commercial and administrative hub with a rich cultural heritage. The city is renowned for its lively markets, where vendors display a diverse array of local produce, crafts, and textiles. Abengourou is also home to several historical landmarks, including the Grand Mosque, a testament to the city’s diverse religious heritage.

Culture and History:

Abengourou’s history is closely intertwined with the Indénié people, who have inhabited the region for centuries. The city played a significant role in Côte d’Ivoire’s struggle for independence, serving as a base for rebel forces. Today, Abengourou is a vibrant cultural center, home to numerous festivals and traditional ceremonies. The annual Abengourou Carnival is a particularly popular event, showcasing the city’s vibrant arts and music scene. Visitors can also explore the Abengourou Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s rich history and culture.