Ansongo Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Ansongo, Mali

Located in the Gao Region of Mali, Ansongo is a town with a unique climate and weather pattern. The town experiences a hot desert climate, also known as a BWh climate according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system. The climate is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year and very little rainfall. In this article, we will explore the climate and weather conditions in Ansongo throughout the year.

Temperature

The town of Ansongo experiences extremely high temperatures, especially during the summer months. The average high temperature in Ansongo during the hottest month, which is May, is around 41°C (106°F), while the average low temperature is around 26°C (79°F). The temperature can reach even higher levels at times, with record temperatures exceeding 46°C (115°F).

During the winter months, the temperature drops slightly, but remains relatively high compared to other regions. The average high temperature in the coldest month, which is January, is around 30°C (86°F), while the average low temperature is around 15°C (59°F).

It is important to note that the temperature in Ansongo can vary throughout the day, with significant fluctuations between day and night. The temperature during the day can be scorching, but it can drop significantly during the night, providing some relief from the intense heat.

Rainfall

Ansongo is situated in a region that receives very little rainfall throughout the year. The town has a desert climate, which means that it is extremely arid and lacks significant precipitation. The average annual rainfall in Ansongo is around 100mm (4 inches). The majority of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, specifically in July and August, when the town experiences occasional thunderstorms.

The lack of rainfall and arid conditions make Ansongo a challenging place for agriculture and vegetation growth. The town heavily relies on the Niger River for irrigation, as it provides a crucial water source for the local population and agriculture.

Wind

The town of Ansongo is known for its strong and persistent winds. The Harmattan wind, a dry and dusty wind that blows from the Sahara Desert, is a common feature in the region. The wind can bring dust and sand particles, reducing visibility and creating hazy conditions. The Harmattan wind usually occurs between November and February, and its presence can impact daily life in Ansongo.

Sunshine

Ansongo enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year. The town experiences approximately 3,500 hours of sunshine annually, which averages out to around 9.6 hours of sunshine per day. This high level of sunshine is consistent with the desert climate, where clear skies and minimal cloud cover are common.

Extreme Weather Events

While Ansongo generally experiences a consistent climate pattern, there are occasional extreme weather events that can impact the town. Dust storms and sandstorms, driven by strong winds, can occur during the Harmattan season. These events can create hazardous conditions and impact visibility.

Furthermore, Ansongo is located in a region prone to occasional flooding. The Niger River, which runs through the town, can overflow during heavy rainfall, leading to flooding in low-lying areas. These floods can cause significant damage to infrastructure and disrupt daily life in the town.

Conclusion

Ansongo, Mali, experiences a hot desert climate with high temperatures throughout the year and very little rainfall. The town's arid conditions and persistent winds create challenging living conditions, but the abundant sunshine provides ample opportunities for solar energy. The occasional extreme weather events, such as dust storms and flooding, require preparedness and adaptation measures. Despite the harsh climate, Ansongo remains a unique and resilient town in the Gao Region of Mali.