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Weather in Фритаун by month: what to expect

Photo: David Hond, CC BY 2.0

Weather overview

The weather in Фритауне remains warm year-round, with only slight variations in temperature. The city’s tropical climate divides the year into distinct dry and rainy seasons, each offering a different experience for travelers.

Фритаун sees its driest months from November to April, when the skies are mostly clear and rainfall is minimal. The rainy season begins in May, peaking between July and September, when heavy downpours become frequent. Despite the rain, the city’s coastal location keeps temperatures steady, rarely dropping below +24 °C even at night.

For those who prefer drier conditions, visiting Фритаун between December and March is ideal. The air feels fresh after the rains, and the ocean remains warm, making it a good time for beach activities.

Temperature

Temperatures in Фритауне stay consistently high, with daytime averages hovering around +28 °C to +31 °C throughout the year. The hottest months are March and April, when the mercury can reach +31.6 °C, while the coolest period falls between July and August, with highs of +28.1 °C.

Nighttime temperatures in Фритауне rarely bring relief from the heat, staying between +24 °C and +25 °C even in the cooler months. The ocean moderates the climate, so extreme temperature swings are uncommon. The sea remains warm year-round, with water temperatures ranging from +27.5 °C in August to +30.4 °C in May.

While the difference between seasons may seem subtle, the combination of heat and humidity makes the rainy months feel warmer. If you’re sensitive to muggy conditions, the drier months from December to March offer slightly more comfortable weather.

Average air temperature °C
Average air temperature
Month Minimum Maximum
January 24.1 31.2
February 24.7 31.4
March 25.3 31.3
April 25.9 31.6
May 25.6 31.5
June 24.9 29.9
July 24.2 28.5
August 24.2 28.1
September 24.3 29.1
October 24.3 29.9
November 24.9 30.9
December 24.4 31.1

Precipitation

Фритаун experiences a pronounced rainy season, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between June and September. During these months, the city receives over 500 mm of rain per month, with August being the wettest at 653.4 mm. Short, intense downpours are common, often followed by sunshine.

The dry season in Фритауне runs from November to April, with almost no rain in January and February. Even in the transitional months of May and October, rainfall is moderate compared to the peak of the wet season. If you prefer to avoid heavy rains, plan your trip outside the June to September window.

Despite the rain, Фритаун rarely feels gloomy. The showers are usually brief, and the city’s lush greenery thrives during the wet season. If you don’t mind occasional downpours, visiting during the rainy months can be rewarding, as the landscape is at its most vibrant.

Precipitation amount mm
Precipitation amount
Month Precipitation
January 2.4
February 0.6
March 9.9
April 29.8
May 152.6
June 326.4
July 559.4
August 653.4
September 512.1
October 236.5
November 91.2
December 24.3

What to pack

When visiting Фритаун during the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as the sun can be intense even in the cooler months. Since evenings remain warm, you won’t need heavy layers, but a light jacket or shawl might come in handy for breezy coastal nights.

If you’re traveling to Фритаун during the rainy season, waterproof footwear and a compact umbrella are must-haves. Quick-drying fabrics will help you stay comfortable during sudden downpours. Mosquito protection is also important year-round, but especially in the wetter months when standing water can increase insect activity.

Regardless of when you visit Фритаун, swimwear is a good idea—the ocean stays warm, and the city’s beaches are a highlight. A reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated in the tropical climate, and a small backpack is useful for carrying essentials during day trips.

Average monthly wind m/s
Average monthly wind
Month Wind speed
January 2.6
February 2.9
March 3.2
April 3.4
May 3.2
June 3.1
July 3.4
August 3.6
September 3
October 2.6
November 2.3
December 2.5