Maroua Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Cameroon


Seasons in Maroua

Maroua experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from November to April and is characterized by hot, dry weather with little to no rainfall. Temperatures during this time typically range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit), with humidity levels generally below 50%. The dry season is also known for its dusty winds, which can create visibility problems.

The wet season, on the other hand, spans from May to October and brings with it significant rainfall. Monsoon rains are prevalent during this time, often leading to flash flooding and temporary road closures. Temperatures during the wet season remain relatively high, averaging between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius (82 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit), while humidity levels soar to around 80%.

Monthly Average Temperatures

Maroua, Cameroon experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 90°F (32°C). The warmest months are March to May, with average temperatures reaching nearly 90°F (32°C). The coolest months are December and January, with average temperatures dropping to about 77°F (25°C). Temperatures typically fluctuate within a small range, so the weather in Maroua is generally warm and pleasant year-round.

Seasonal Temperature Patterns

Maroua’s temperature patterns are strongly influenced by its location in the tropics and its proximity to the Sahara Desert. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by hot and sunny weather, with very little rainfall. During this period, temperatures often reach their highest levels, with daily highs regularly exceeding 86°F (30°C). The rainy season, from May to October, brings cooler and wetter conditions. Temperatures often drop a few degrees, with daily highs typically around 82°F (28°C). However, the humidity rises during the rainy season, which can make the weather feel more uncomfortable.

Cloud Cover

Maroua, Cameroon, experiences a diverse range of cloud cover throughout the year. During the wet season, from May to October, clouds are abundant and frequent. Cumulonimbus clouds, towering and cumulus-like, dominate the sky during this period. These clouds often bring thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. Stratus and altostratus clouds are also common, producing overcast conditions and drizzle.

Influence of the Sahara Desert

The proximity of Maroua to the Sahara Desert significantly influences its cloud cover. During the dry season, from November to April, the Harmattan wind from the desert brings dry and dusty conditions. This wind inhibits cloud formation, resulting in clear skies and low humidity. However, during the wet season, moisture from the Atlantic Ocean carried by the monsoon winds prevails over the dry Harmattan conditions, leading to increased cloudiness and precipitation.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Maroua, Cameroon experiences a distinct wet and dry season, with most precipitation falling during the rainy season extending from May to October. Annual precipitation averages around 700 millimeters, with monthly totals highest in August and September, often exceeding 100 millimeters. During the dry season, from November to April, precipitation is minimal, and monthly totals typically remain below 20 millimeters.

Variability and Extremes

Precipitation in Maroua is subject to substantial interannual variability, influenced by factors such as the West African Monsoon and large-scale climate patterns. Years with above-average rainfall are associated with a stronger monsoon and more frequent tropical cyclones, while below-average years may result from a weaker monsoon or El Niño events. Extreme events, such as severe storms and droughts, can also impact precipitation patterns, leading to deviations from the average.

Seasonal Variation of Rainfall

Maroua experiences a marked seasonal variation in rainfall. The rainy season begins in April and continues until November, with a peak in rainfall occurring in August. During this time, the city receives the majority of its annual precipitation. The dry season, on the other hand, extends from December to March and is characterized by very little rainfall. The average annual rainfall in Maroua is around 900 millimeters (35.4 inches), with most of the rain falling during the wet season.

Impact of Rainfall

The seasonal variations in rainfall have a significant impact on the local population and environment. During the rainy season, the city can experience heavy downpours and occasional flooding. This can lead to infrastructure damage, transportation disruptions, and health hazards. However, the rainfall is also crucial for agriculture, as it provides water for crops and livestock. The dry season, while providing a respite from the rain, also brings challenges, such as drought, wildfires, and water scarcity.

The Rarity of Snowfall in Maroua

Located in northern Cameroon, just 10 degrees north of the equator, Maroua is an unlikely setting for snowfall. The city experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by high temperatures year-round, with an average annual temperature of 85°F (29°C). Due to its proximity to the equator, Maroua receives intense solar radiation, and rainfall is highly seasonal, with a pronounced wet season from May to October. The combination of high temperatures and abundant rainfall makes snowfall an extremely rare occurrence in Maroua.

The Exceptional Snowfall Event in 1984

On January 28, 1984, Maroua witnessed a remarkable and unprecedented snowfall. The event was attributed to an unusual weather pattern that brought cold air from the Sahara Desert into the city. The snowfall began in the early morning hours and continued throughout the day, covering the ground with a thin layer of white powder. It was the first snowfall ever recorded in Maroua, and it remains the only recorded instance of snowfall in the city to this day. The snowfall caused widespread astonishment and excitement among the local population, many of whom had never seen snow before. The event was captured in photographs and videos, providing a rare glimpse of a winter wonderland in the heart of Africa.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

The sun rises in Maroua, Cameroon, at 6:20 AM and sets at 6:20 PM throughout the year. The daylight hours remain relatively constant, with minor variations due to the Earth’s axial tilt. The sunrise and sunset times align with the tropical climate of the region, providing long periods of daylight for agricultural activities and outdoor recreation.

Sun Intensity and Radiation

Maroua experiences intense sunlight throughout the year, with a high UV index that requires sunscreen and protective clothing during peak hours. The city receives an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest in Cameroon. The solar radiation is strong and can cause sunburn, skin damage, and heat stroke if prolonged exposure is not mitigated. However, the abundant sunlight also supports solar energy initiatives and contributes to the growth of crops and vegetation in the region.

Visibility and Timing

During the month of July in Maroua, Cameroon, the Moon becomes visible at various times. The rising Moon makes its first appearance between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM, gradually gaining altitude throughout the day. At approximately 6:00 PM, the Moon reaches its highest point in the sky, known as culmination. Sunset occurs around 7:00 PM, marking the beginning of the evening sky. The Moon continues to descend until setting below the horizon between 12:30 AM and 1:00 AM the following morning.

Phases and Appearance

Throughout July, the Moon goes through various phases as it orbits Earth. The new Moon occurs around July 1st, when the Moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun. During this phase, the Moon is not visible from Earth as its night side faces Earth. As the Moon moves in its orbit, it gradually becomes a waxing crescent, then a waxing gibbous. The full Moon, when the Moon’s entire face is illuminated, occurs around July 16th. Following the full Moon, the Moon wanes back through its gibbous and crescent phases until reaching the new Moon again at the end of the month.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Maroua, a city in northern Cameroon, experiences significant seasonal humidity variations throughout the year. During the rainy season, which typically lasts from May to October, the humidity levels soar to an average of 80-90%. The high humidity, combined with the warm temperatures, creates a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere. During this time, residents often seek relief from the humidity by staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces or by taking frequent showers.

Dry Season Humidity

In contrast to the rainy season, the dry season in Maroua, which runs from November to April, brings significantly lower humidity levels. The average humidity during this time drops to around 30-40%, making the weather more comfortable and pleasant. The drier air allows for better evaporation of sweat, providing a cooling effect and making outdoor activities more enjoyable. However, the lack of humidity during the dry season can also lead to dry skin and respiratory problems for some individuals.

Wind Patterns and Variability

Maroua, the capital of Cameroon’s Far North Region, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by pronounced seasonality in wind patterns. During the rainy season (June-September), the prevailing wind direction is southwesterly to westerly, bringing moisture and rainfall from the Atlantic Ocean. Wind speeds are generally moderate, averaging around 10-15 km/h. In contrast, the dry season (October-May) witnesses a shift in wind direction to northeasterly to easterly. These winds are associated with the Harmattan, a dry and dusty wind that originates in the Sahara Desert. Wind speeds during the dry season are typically stronger, with occasional gusts reaching 30-40 km/h.

Impacts on Climate and Economy

The wind patterns in Maroua have significant implications for both the climate and economy of the region. The strong Harmattan winds during the dry season carry dust and sand particles, which can cause respiratory problems and reduce visibility, sometimes disrupting transportation and economic activities. Furthermore, these winds can contribute to the spread of bushfires, a common occurrence in the region. Conversely, the southwesterly winds during the rainy season bring much-needed moisture, supporting agriculture and providing favorable conditions for plant growth. The wind also facilitates the exchange of heat and moisture between the land and the atmosphere, influencing local microclimates.

Best Time to Visit Maroua, Cameroon

Maroua, located in the far north of Cameroon, experiences a tropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. The best time to visit Maroua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.

During the dry season, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s attractions, such as the Maroua Museum, the Grand Mosque, and the traditional markets. Additionally, the dry season offers opportunities for wildlife viewing in the nearby Waza National Park, where you can spot elephants, lions, and other African wildlife.

Potential and Advantages of Solar Energy in Maroua, Cameroon

Maroua, located in northern Cameroon, possesses immense potential for solar energy utilization. The region experiences abundant sunlight throughout the year, with an average of 5.5 kWh/m²/day global horizontal irradiation. This favorable solar insolation makes Maroua an ideal location for harnessing solar energy to meet its growing electricity needs.

The utilization of solar energy in Maroua offers numerous advantages. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can be deployed to provide renewable and clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Solar PV systems can be installed on rooftops, open spaces, and even in remote areas, providing a decentralized and reliable energy source. Furthermore, solar energy is a cost-effective solution for electricity generation, especially considering the declining costs of PV technology.

Topography of Maroua, Cameroon

Maroua, the capital of the Far North Region of Cameroon, lies in the northern savanna region of the country. The topography of Maroua is characterized by rolling hills and gently sloping plains. The city is located at an elevation of approximately 350 meters (1,150 feet) above sea level, with Mount Kapsiki, a prominent hill, dominating the skyline to the west. The surrounding hills provide a picturesque backdrop to the city, adding to its natural beauty.

The landscape around Maroua is predominantly flat, with occasional outcrops of granite and sandstone hills. The city is traversed by several seasonal rivers, including the Mayo Kaliao and the Mayo Louti, which flow during the rainy season. These rivers provide a vital source of water for both the city and the surrounding agricultural areas. The soil in the region is generally fertile, supporting a variety of crops, including cotton, sorghum, and millet. The vegetation is primarily composed of savanna grasslands, with scattered trees and shrubs.

Salak Airport

The nearest airport to Maroua, Cameroon, is Salak Airport (MVR), located approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city center. Salak Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway for the Far North Region of Cameroon and is equipped with a 2,300-meter asphalt runway. Several domestic airlines, including Camair-Co and Asky Airlines, offer regular flights from Salak Airport to major cities in Cameroon, such as Yaoundé and Douala. Additionally, there are occasional direct international flights to N’Djamena, the capital of neighboring Chad. Salak Airport is conveniently accessible by road, making it a convenient transportation hub for both travelers and businesses.

Other Nearby Airports

While Salak Airport is the most convenient airport for Maroua, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance. Garoua International Airport (GOU), located approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) to the southwest, offers a wider range of domestic and international connections. Additionally, Yola Airport (YOL) in neighboring Nigeria is situated approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) to the northwest of Maroua and provides additional flight options. However, it is important to note that crossing the international border between Cameroon and Nigeria may involve additional time and documentation requirements.

History and Culture:

Maroua, located in northern Cameroon, has a rich history and diverse culture. It served as the capital of the powerful Fulani Emirate of Adamawa from 1809 to 1903. The city’s historic center, known as the Old Palace, showcases the architectural heritage of the emirate, featuring intricately decorated mudbrick buildings and courtyards. Maroua is also home to numerous mosques and churches, reflecting the city’s religious diversity. The city is renowned for its traditional dance and music performances, which celebrate the cultural heritage of the region’s various ethnic groups.

Economic and Modernization:

Maroua is a vital commercial hub for the northern region of Cameroon. The city’s central market, one of the largest in the country, draws traders and shoppers from far and wide. Maroua is also home to several industrial zones, which produce a range of goods, including textiles, leather, and food products. In recent years, the city has witnessed significant modernization, with the construction of new roads, modern buildings, and educational facilities. Maroua remains an important administrative and economic center, driving the development of the surrounding region.