Djakotome Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Benin

Temperature and Precipitation

Djakotome experiences a tropical wet and dry climate with distinct seasons. The wet season spans from April to October, characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. During this period, average temperatures range between 22 and 32 degrees Celsius (72-90 degrees Fahrenheit). The dry season, from November to March, brings drier conditions and lower humidity. Temperatures during the dry season average between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit). Annual precipitation in Djakotome averages around 1,200 millimeters (47 inches).

Seasonal Variations

The hottest months in Djakotome are March and April, with average temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). The coldest months are December and January, with average temperatures dipping to 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). The wettest months are June and July, with average rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters (8 inches). The driest months are January and February, with average rainfall below 50 millimeters (2 inches). The climate in Djakotome is influenced by the West African Monsoon, which brings moisture from the Atlantic Ocean during the wet season.

Djakotome’s Temperature Extremes

Djakotome, Benin, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. During the hottest months, from February to April, average temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). These months also coincide with the dry season, characterized by scorching heat and minimal rainfall. However, the town’s hottest day on record reached a staggering 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), making it one of the hottest places in Benin during that time.

On the other hand, Djakotome’s coldest months are from July to September, when temperatures average around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). During this rainy season, the combination of high humidity and frequent rainfall creates a cooler and more humid atmosphere. The coldest night on record in Djakotome dropped to 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit), signaling a significant temperature difference compared to the highs seen during the dry season.

Cloud Formations in Djakotome

Djakotome, Benin, experiences a wide variety of cloud formations throughout the year. These formations are influenced by the region’s tropical climate and proximity to the equator. During the wet season, from May to October, cumulus clouds are prevalent. These are puffy, white clouds that can grow into towering thunderheads, often bringing heavy rainfall. Stratus clouds, which appear as a uniform gray layer, are also common during this time.

High-Altitude Clouds

In the dry season, from November to April, higher-altitude clouds become more prevalent. These include cirrus clouds, which are thin, wispy streaks of ice crystals that form at high altitudes. Cumulonimbus clouds, which are large, anvil-shaped clouds that can produce lightning and hail, are also common during this season. Altocumulus clouds, which appear as a layer of puffy, white clouds at middle altitudes, are also frequently observed.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Djakotome, Benin experiences a distinct wet and dry season, with most precipitation falling during the rainy season from May to October. During this period, heavy thunderstorms are common, contributing to the region’s high annual precipitation levels. The wettest month is June, when rainfall can reach up to 250 mm. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by minimal precipitation, with only occasional light showers.

Seasonal Variations in Precipitation

The total precipitation received in Djakotome varies significantly from year to year. During the wet season, rainfall can fluctuate dramatically, with some years experiencing heavy downpours and others experiencing extended dry spells. The variability in precipitation is influenced by factors such as the strength of the rainy season, the movement of weather systems, and the prevailing wind patterns. The average annual precipitation in Djakotome is around 1,200 mm, but it can range from as low as 800 mm to as high as 1,600 mm in extreme years.

Rainfall Patterns

Djakotome experiences a distinct wet season from May to October, characterized by heavy rainfall events. During this period, monthly rainfall totals consistently exceed 100 mm, with the peak occurring in July or August when it can reach over 250 mm. The dry season, which extends from November to April, is drier with low monthly rainfall, generally below 50 mm. December and January are typically the driest months.

Rainfall Variability

Rainfall in Djakotome is highly variable, both within and between years. The amount of rainfall in the wet season can fluctuate significantly. The region is also prone to droughts, which can result in severe water shortages, particularly in the dry season. Long-term rainfall data reveals periods of increased and decreased rainfall, influenced by climate patterns such as El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the West African Monsoon. These variations impact the availability of water resources and agricultural production in the area.

Historical Occurrences

Djakotome, a town in Benin, has not experienced snowfall in recorded history. The country’s tropical climate, with average temperatures consistently above freezing, precludes the formation and accumulation of snow. While there have been isolated reports of hail and frost in certain parts of Benin, particularly during the cooler Harmattan season, these phenomena are distinct from snowfall and are not indicative of a change in the region’s climate.

Environmental Factors Preventing Snowfall

The lack of snowfall in Djakotome is attributed to several environmental factors. Firstly, the town’s geographical location within the tropical zone means that it receives ample sunlight and high temperatures throughout the year. The absence of prolonged periods of sub-freezing temperatures prevents the formation of snow crystals. Additionally, the proximity to the Gulf of Guinea ensures that moisture in the atmosphere is predominantly in the form of warm, humid air, which further hinders snow formation. The combination of these factors creates an environment that is highly unfavorable for snowfall.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Djakotome, Benin, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun. The average sunrise time in Djakotome is between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM local time. The average sunset time is between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM local time. However, these times can vary by a few minutes depending on the day of the year and the specific location within Djakotome.

Sunlight Hours

The length of daylight in Djakotome varies throughout the year. During the summer months (June to August), Djakotome experiences approximately 12 hours of daylight. During the winter months (December to February), Djakotome experiences approximately 10 hours of daylight. The number of sunlight hours gradually increases from December to June and gradually decreases from June to December.

Lunar Observation in Djakotome, Benin

Djakotome, a rural town in Benin, offers exceptional conditions for lunar observation due to its remote location and clear night skies. With minimal light pollution, observers can witness breathtaking views of the moon, revealing its craters, mountains, and valleys in intricate detail. The absence of urban lights ensures that the celestial body appears brighter and more vivid, allowing for extended periods of observation without eye strain.

Cultural Significance of the Moon in Djakotome

The Djakotome community holds a deep reverence for the moon. It plays a significant role in their cultural traditions and agricultural practices. The lunar cycle guides planting and harvesting seasons, with each phase associated with specific rituals and ceremonies. During full moons, elders gather to share stories, perform traditional dances, and offer prayers to their ancestors. The moon’s influence extends beyond its practical applications; it is also considered a symbol of protection and guidance, illuminating the path through the darkness and safeguarding the community from harm.

Annual Humidity

Djakotome, Benin experiences a relatively constant humidity level throughout the year. The average annual humidity is approximately 68%, with only slight fluctuations between the wet and dry seasons. The humidity remains high due to the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the presence of the Niger River and its tributaries. During the wet season, from April to October, the humidity can reach upwards of 80%, making the air feel thick and uncomfortable. However, during the dry season, from November to March, the humidity drops slightly to around 60%, providing some relief from the oppressive humidity.

Seasonal Variations

The humidity in Djakotome varies slightly throughout the year, with the dry season being slightly less humid than the wet season. During the wet season, the high humidity levels are a result of the heavy rainfall, which saturates the atmosphere with moisture. The humidity reaches its peak in August, when the average humidity is around 80%. As the dry season approaches, the humidity gradually decreases as the rainfall decreases. By January, the average humidity drops to around 60%, which is the lowest humidity level for the year. This period of lower humidity can bring some relief from the oppressive humidity that is common in Djakotome.

Wind Speed and Direction in Djakotome, Benin

Djakotome, Benin, experiences seasonal variations in wind speed and direction. During the dry season, from November to March, the prevailing wind blows from the northeast, bringing in dry and dusty conditions. Wind speeds typically range from 10 to 25 kilometers per hour (6 to 15 miles per hour). In the wet season, from April to October, the wind pattern shifts to the southwest, carrying moist air from the Gulf of Guinea. Wind speeds tend to be higher during this time, often reaching 30 to 40 kilometers per hour (18 to 25 miles per hour).

Impact of Wind on Djakotome’s Climate and Environment

The wind patterns in Djakotome significantly influence the local climate and environment. The dry season winds contribute to the region’s aridity, causing low rainfall and high evaporation rates. This leads to the formation of a semi-arid savanna ecosystem, characterized by drought-tolerant vegetation and limited water resources. In contrast, the wet season winds bring moisture and rainfall, which supports a more verdant environment. However, strong winds during the wet season can also cause soil erosion and damage vegetation. Additionally, the wind can carry dust and pollutants from surrounding areas, affecting air quality and human health.

Dry Season: November to April

The dry season in Djakotome is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the rain and enjoy the warm, sunny weather. Temperatures during this time range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). The humidity is low, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors. The dry season is also the perfect time to visit the Pendjari National Park, home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalos.

Wet Season: May to October

The wet season in Djakotome is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures during this time range from 80°F to 95°F (27°C to 35°C). The rain can make it difficult to get around, and the high humidity can be oppressive. However, the wet season is also a time of lush vegetation and beautiful scenery. If you don’t mind the rain, the wet season can be a great time to visit Djakotome and experience the country’s natural beauty.

Shoulder Season: April to May and September to October

The shoulder seasons in Djakotome offer a mix of wet and dry weather. Temperatures during these times range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The humidity is moderate, and the rain is less frequent than during the wet season. The shoulder seasons can be a good time to visit Djakotome if you want to avoid the crowds of the dry season but still enjoy the warm weather.

Djakotome’s Potential for Solar Energy

Djakotome, Benin is blessed with abundant sunshine, which provides excellent conditions for harnessing solar energy. The average annual solar irradiance in the area is estimated to be around 5.5 kWh/m²/day, which is significantly higher than the global average. This high solar potential makes Djakotome an ideal location for the development of solar energy projects.

Current Solar Energy Projects in Djakotome

Recognizing the potential of solar energy, the government of Benin has implemented several projects to promote its development in Djakotome. One notable project is the construction of a 1 MW solar photovoltaic plant, which was commissioned in 2020. This plant generates clean and renewable electricity that helps reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and provides a reliable source of energy for the community. Additionally, there are numerous smaller-scale solar projects, such as solar home systems and solar water pumps, that contribute to rural electrification and improve the quality of life for local residents.

Djakotome’s Topography: A Diverse Landscape

Djakotome, located in northwestern Benin, is characterized by a remarkably diverse topography. The region features a mosaic of hills, valleys, plateaus, and plains. The Atakora Mountains, a prominent mountain range in the northern part of the country, extend into Djakotome, creating rugged terrain with steep slopes and narrow valleys. The hills and mountains are primarily composed of granite and sandstone, while the valleys and plains are covered in fertile soils suitable for agriculture.

The Pendjari Basin: A Unique Ecosystem

The Pendjari Basin, a vast lowland area located in the western part of Djakotome, is a vital ecological hotspot. The region is characterized by a network of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, creating a rich habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The Pendjari National Park, established in 1961, covers much of the basin and is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and numerous bird species. The park’s rolling hills, gallery forests, and open grasslands provide a stunning and varied landscape that contributes to its ecological significance.

Djakotome, Benin Airport Information

There is no airport located in Djakotome, Benin. The nearest airport is Cadjehoun Airport (COO), which is located in Cotonou, Benin. Cadjehoun Airport is approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles) from Djakotome.

Transportation Options from Cadjehoun Airport to Djakotome

To get from Cadjehoun Airport to Djakotome, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or take a bus. The journey by taxi takes about 4 hours and costs between 50,000 and 70,000 CFA francs (approximately $90-$125). Renting a car is also an option, but it is more expensive than taking a taxi. The journey by bus takes about 6 hours and costs between 10,000 and 15,000 CFA francs (approximately $18-$27).

Geography and Climate

Djakotome is a town and arrondissement in the Couffo Department of Benin. It is located in the south-central part of the country, approximately 140 kilometers west of the capital city of Cotonou. Djakotome covers an area of around 250 square kilometers and is bordered by the municipalities of Klouekanme, Aplahoue, and Dogbo. The terrain is mostly flat, with an average elevation of around 50 meters above sea level. The climate is tropical, with two distinct seasons: a rainy season from April to October and a dry season from November to March. The average annual temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius, with little variation throughout the year.

Culture and History

Djakotome is home to a diverse population, including the Fon, Yoruba, and Goun people. The town has a rich history dating back to the pre-colonial period, when it was an important center of trade and commerce. Djakotome is known for its traditional crafts, including pottery, basket weaving, and wood carving. The town is also home to several historical sites, including the ruins of a royal palace and a sacred forest. Djakotome is a vibrant cultural center, with numerous festivals and celebrations held throughout the year. The most popular festival is the Gounhoun Festival, which is celebrated in honor of the vodu deity of the same name. The festival features traditional music, dance, and costumes, and attracts visitors from all over Benin and beyond.