Cotonou Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Benin

Climate of Cotonou, Benin

Cotonou experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season typically lasts from April to October, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity. During this time, average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, with frequent thunderstorms. The dry season, from November to March, is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 35°C. The average annual rainfall in Cotonou is around 1,200 mm, with most of it occurring during the wet season.

Average Weather Year Round in Cotonou, Benin

Throughout the year, Cotonou’s weather varies depending on the season. During the wet season, from April to October, the city experiences frequent heavy rainfall accompanied by high humidity. Average temperatures during this time reach a maximum of 30°C and a minimum of 25°C. In contrast, the dry season, from November to March, is hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 35°C. Rainfall during this period is scarce, creating a more arid climate with less humidity. The hottest months in Cotonou are February and March, while the coolest months are July and August.

Annual Temperature Trends

Cotonou, Benin’s economic hub, experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. On average, Cotonou has a tropical wet and dry climate, with an average annual temperature ranging from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius (79 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest months are March, April, and May, when temperatures can reach up to 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit).

Seasonal Temperature Variations

Cotonou’s distinct seasons influence temperature variations. From December to February, the harmattan, a cool, dry wind from the Sahara, brings lower temperatures, averaging around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). The transition to the rainy season from March to May brings a rise in temperatures, with average highs of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) and increased humidity. The rainy season, which lasts until September, is characterized by heavy rainfall and moderate temperatures, with an average of 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit). The dry season returns in November, bringing slightly cooler temperatures and less humidity.

Cloud Cover in Cotonou

Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, experiences a distinct variation in cloud cover throughout the year. During the dry season, which stretches from November to March, the city is often characterized by clear skies and an abundance of sunshine. Cloud cover is generally sparse, allowing for extended periods of uninterrupted sunlight and warm temperatures.

Rainy Season Cloudiness

In contrast, the rainy season from April to October brings a significant increase in cloud cover. Cumulus and nimbus clouds become more prevalent, leading to frequent periods of overcast skies and precipitation. The onset of the rainy season often coincides with a gradual increase in cloud cover, which can persist for several days or even weeks during periods of heavy rainfall.

Monthly Precipitation

Cotonou experiences a distinct wet and dry season. Rainfall is heaviest from March to October, with average monthly precipitation exceeding 100mm during this time. The wettest month is June, with an average of 220mm of rain. In contrast, the dry season from November to February is characterized by significantly less precipitation, with monthly averages typically below 10mm.

Annual Precipitation

The annual precipitation in Cotonou is around 1200mm to 1400mm, making it one of the driest cities in West Africa. While the majority of rainfall occurs during the wet season, sporadic showers can occur throughout the year. The lack of prolonged and heavy rainfall contributes to Cotonou’s relatively dry climate, despite its proximity to the coast. This pattern is influenced by the city’s location in the rain shadow of the Guinea Highlands, which blocks moisture-carrying winds from the Atlantic Ocean. The result is a drier climate compared to other coastal cities in the region.

Rainfall Patterns

Cotonou, Benin experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The annual rainfall average hovers around 1,200 mm (47 inches). The rainy season spans from April to July, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in June and July. During this period, torrential downpours are frequent, and flooding is a common occurrence. From August to October, rainfall decreases but remains significant, averaging around 200 mm (8 inches) per month. The dry season extends from November to March, with minimal rainfall and occasional dry spells.

Seasonal Variations

The amount and intensity of rainfall in Cotonou are influenced by seasonal variations. During the dry season, the northeast trade winds dominate, bringing dry and dusty conditions. As the wet season approaches, the southwest monsoon winds strengthen, bringing moisture from the Gulf of Guinea. The convergence of these air masses results in the formation of convective clouds and heavy rainfall. The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a belt of low atmospheric pressure, plays a crucial role in determining the timing and intensity of the rainy season. When the ITCZ is positioned over Cotonou, rainfall is at its peak.

Rarest Natural Phenomenon in Cotonou

Snowfall is an extraordinary event in Cotonou, Benin, as the city lies near the equator and experiences a tropical climate. The average temperature in Cotonou rarely falls below 25°C (77°F) throughout the year. The last recorded snowfall in Cotonou occurred over a century ago, making it an extremely rare phenomenon.

Exceptional Conditions

For snow to fall in Cotonou, a combination of highly unusual weather conditions must align. One such condition is a deep trough of cold air from the polar regions, which would need to reach the equator and bring temperatures down to freezing. Additionally, ample moisture in the atmosphere is essential for the formation of snow. In Cotonou, this moisture would likely need to originate from a nearby body of water, such as the Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, the rate of precipitation would need to be low enough to allow the snow to accumulate on the ground rather than melt upon impact. The combination of these factors, all of which are exceptional in Cotonou’s climate, makes snowfall in the city an extremely unlikely event.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

The sun rises and sets in Cotonou, Benin, throughout the year at relatively consistent times due to the country’s proximity to the equator. Sunrise typically occurs between 6:00 and 6:30 AM, with minor variations depending on the time of year. Sunset usually happens between 6:00 and 6:30 PM, again with slight adjustments based on the season. These consistent sunrise and sunset times provide a reliable and predictable rhythm to daily life in Cotonou.

Solar Intensity and Day Length

Cotonou, located in the tropics, experiences high levels of solar intensity throughout the year. The sun’s rays are strong, and the area receives an average of 6-8 hours of sunshine per day. However, due to the country’s equatorial location, day length remains relatively constant year-round. Days are consistently around 12 hours long, providing ample sunlight for outdoor activities and energy generation. The UV index in Cotonou is also high, so it is essential to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to direct sunlight.

Moon in Cotonou, Benin

The moon, a celestial sphere that governs the tides and illuminates the sky, casts its steady gaze upon Cotonou, Benin. As the capital city of Benin, Cotonou is a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Its proximity to the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean ensures that the moon’s influence is felt in many aspects of city life. The local fishing industry relies heavily on the moon’s cycles to determine the most opportune times for fishing, as the tides shift according to the moon’s position. Additionally, traditional Beninese religious practices often incorporate lunar cycles into their rituals and ceremonies, connecting the city’s cultural heritage to the celestial rhythms of the moon.

Further, the moon holds significant cultural significance in Benin. Local folklore often associates the moon with fertility and abundance, and many traditional festivals and celebrations incorporate moon-related imagery and symbolism. The moon is also a muse for Beninese artists, inspiring countless works of literature, music, and visual art that depict its ethereal beauty and its profound impact on the human experience. In recent times, the rising popularity of astrology and the occult has further increased the prominence of the moon in Cotonou’s collective consciousness.

Seasonal Humidity

Cotonou experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in humidity. During the wet season, from April to October, humidity levels are consistently high, typically ranging between 75% and 90%. This humid environment is caused by the influx of moisture-laden winds from the Atlantic Ocean.

During the dry season, from November to March, humidity levels decrease substantially. The average relative humidity during this period is between 60% and 75%. The drier conditions are attributed to the absence of heavy rainfall and the prevalence of dry, Saharan winds known as the Harmattan.

Time of Day Variations

In addition to seasonal variations, humidity levels in Cotonou also show significant variations throughout the day. During the early morning hours, humidity tends to be at its highest, often reaching 90% or more. As the day progresses and the sun rises, the humidity levels gradually decrease. By midday, they typically hover around 70% to 80%. In the evening, as temperatures start to drop, humidity levels rise again, reaching a second peak during the night.

Wind Patterns

Cotonou, Benin, experiences a complex wind regime due to its location on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. The dominant wind direction during the year is from the south-southwest, with strong winds prevailing during the dry season (November to April). These winds are part of the Harmattan, a dry and dusty wind that blows from the Sahara Desert. During the wet season (May to October), winds become more variable, with frequent thunderstorms and occasional squalls. The wind speed also varies throughout the year, with higher speeds recorded during the dry season than the wet season.

Impact on Climate and Environment

The wind patterns in Cotonou have a significant impact on the city’s climate and environment. The prevailing south-southwest winds bring in warm, humid air from the ocean, which contributes to the city’s tropical climate. The Harmattan winds, which can blow for several days at a time, often cause poor air quality devido to the dust they carry. Additionally, the strong winds during the dry season can cause coastal erosion and damage infrastructure. Understanding the wind patterns is crucial for planning and managing the city’s development, as well as for mitigating the impacts of environmental hazards.

Best Time to Visit for Weather

Cotonou experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by hot, humid conditions year-round. The best time to visit for optimal weather is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, temperatures are slightly cooler, with average highs hovering around 30-32°C (86-90°F) and low humidity levels. Rainfall is minimal, ensuring clear skies and sunny days. The dry season also coincides with the Harmattan, a cool, dry wind that blows from the Sahara Desert, bringing relief from the humidity.

Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events

If you are interested in experiencing Cotonou’s lively cultural scene, plan your visit during the annual festivals and events. The most popular event is the International Festival of Arts and Culture, held in February or March. This vibrant celebration showcases Benin’s diverse cultural heritage through music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions. Other notable festivals include the Festival of the Dead (October or November) and the International Trade Fair of Cotonou (December or January). These events provide an immersive opportunity to witness Benin’s rich traditions and connect with its people.

Potential for Solar Energy in Cotonou, Benin

Cotonou, Benin enjoys abundant solar irradiation, making it a prime location for harnessing solar energy. The annual global horizontal irradiation (GHI) exceeds 2,000 kWh/m2, providing a significant resource for electricity generation. With an average of more than 8 peak sunshine hours per day, Cotonou has the potential to become a hub for solar energy production.

Challenges and Opportunities in Solar Development

Despite the high solar potential, Cotonou faces challenges in developing its solar industry. The initial investment costs can be significant, and access to financing can be limited. Grid infrastructure constraints, such as low grid capacity and intermittent electricity supply, can also hinder solar development. However, the government of Benin is committed to promoting renewable energy, and several initiatives are in place to address these challenges. The country has set ambitious targets for solar capacity expansion and is providing incentives to encourage private sector investment. Additionally, international development organizations are supporting solar projects in Cotonou, providing technical assistance and financial resources.

Low-Lying Coastal Plain

Cotonou, Benin, is situated on a low-lying coastal plain. The city is characterized by flat terrain and an average elevation of just a few meters above sea level. The coastal plain is primarily composed of sandy sediments and clay deposits, resulting from the accumulation of materials carried by rivers and waves over time. The gentle slope of the plain allows for the formation of lagoons and wetlands along the coastline, providing important habitats for diverse flora and fauna.

Influence on Urban Development and Infrastructure

The topography of Cotonou’s coastal plain has significantly influenced its urban development and infrastructure. The flat terrain has facilitated the expansion of the city without major obstacles. However, the low elevation and proximity to the sea have posed challenges in terms of drainage and flood control. Heavy rainfall and storm surges can cause flooding in low-lying areas, necessitating the construction of drainage canals and elevated roadways to mitigate the impact on infrastructure and residential areas. Coastal erosion is also a concern due to the sandy nature of the plain, requiring ongoing measures to protect coastal communities and infrastructure.

Cadjehoun Airport (COO)

Cadjehoun Airport, also known as Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport, is the primary airport serving Cotonou, Benin. It is located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the city center. Cadjehoun Airport is the hub for Benin’s national airline, Air Benin, and handles both domestic and international flights. Airlines operating at the airport include Air France, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, and Turkish Airlines. The airport has a single passenger terminal with basic facilities, including check-in counters, baggage claim, duty-free shops, and a restaurant.

Alternatives

While Cadjehoun Airport is the nearest airport to Cotonou, there are a few alternative options for travelers. Lome-Tokoin Airport (LFW) in Togo is approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Cotonou, while Niamey Diori Hamani International Airport (NIM) in Niger is about 430 kilometers (267 miles) away. However, these airports have limited connectivity, and flights to and from Cotonou may be less frequent or more expensive. It is important for travelers to carefully consider their options and compare flight schedules and prices before making a decision.

Culture and Lifestyle:

Cotonou, the economic hub of Benin, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that exudes a unique blend of African and French influences. Its rich cultural heritage is evident in its lively markets, where locals barter for colorful textiles, handcrafted trinkets, and exotic spices. The city is also home to several cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Benin, which houses a vast collection of historical artifacts and traditional art. Music and dance play an integral role in Cotonou’s social fabric, with traditional rhythms and contemporary beats permeating the streets and nightclubs.

Economic Significance:

Cotonou serves as the primary port and commercial center for Benin. Its strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea makes it a vital gateway for trade and investment. The city hosts a bustling port that handles a significant amount of the country’s imports and exports, including cotton, cocoa, and oil. Cotonou is also home to several industrial zones and manufacturing facilities, contributing to the city’s economic dynamism. Additionally, it is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich cultural experiences, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.