Weather overview
The weather in Каримама is shaped by two distinct seasons: a long dry period and a shorter rainy season. From November to April, Каримама experiences almost no rainfall, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine. This is the hottest time of the year, especially in March and April, when temperatures often climb above 40 °C.
The rainy season in Каримама begins in May and lasts through September, with the heaviest downpours occurring in August. During these months, the heat becomes less intense, but humidity rises, making the air feel heavier. By October, the rains taper off, and the dry season returns, bringing cooler evenings and more comfortable daytime temperatures.
Temperature
Temperatures in Каримама vary significantly between day and night, especially during the dry season. In January, daytime highs average around 34.4 °C, while nights can drop to 19.4 °C. The hottest months are March and April, when the mercury frequently reaches 40.9 °C and 41.6 °C, respectively, with little relief after sunset.
With the onset of the rainy season in May, temperatures in Каримама become slightly more moderate. Daytime highs hover around 35–39 °C, while nights remain warm, rarely falling below 23 °C. The coolest period arrives in December and January, when daytime temperatures average 34.4–34.9 °C, and evenings offer a brief respite from the heat.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19.4 | 34.4 |
| February | 21.8 | 36.7 |
| March | 26 | 40.9 |
| April | 28.1 | 41.6 |
| May | 27.3 | 39.5 |
| June | 25.1 | 35.9 |
| July | 23.8 | 32.9 |
| August | 22.8 | 31.2 |
| September | 23.2 | 32.3 |
| October | 23.8 | 35.6 |
| November | 21.5 | 37.6 |
| December | 19.5 | 34.9 |
Precipitation
Каримама is one of the driest regions in Бенин for much of the year. From November to March, rainfall is virtually nonexistent, with only trace amounts recorded in March. The first significant rains arrive in April, but it’s in May that the wet season truly begins, with 86.1 mm of rain falling on average.
The peak of the rainy season in Каримама occurs in August, when the town receives its highest monthly rainfall of 330 mm. The rains gradually decrease in September and October, before stopping entirely by November. Travelers visiting Каримама during the wet season should be prepared for sudden downpours, particularly in the afternoons.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 0 |
| February | 0 |
| March | 0.2 |
| April | 14.9 |
| May | 86.1 |
| June | 106.2 |
| July | 165.4 |
| August | 330 |
| September | 156.3 |
| October | 44.8 |
| November | 0 |
| December | 0 |
What to pack
If you’re visiting Каримама during the dry season, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to cope with the intense heat. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential, as the sun is strong year-round. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket or shawl may come in handy, especially in December and January.
For trips during the rainy season, waterproof footwear and a compact umbrella are must-haves. Opt for quick-drying fabrics to stay comfortable in the humid conditions. While temperatures remain high, the rain can make the air feel muggy, so moisture-wicking clothing will help. Don’t forget insect repellent, as mosquitoes are more active during this time.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 3.6 |
| February | 3.6 |
| March | 2.9 |
| April | 2.9 |
| May | 3.2 |
| June | 2.8 |
| July | 2.6 |
| August | 2.3 |
| September | 2.1 |
| October | 2 |
| November | 2.8 |
| December | 3.5 |