Climate Overview
The climate in Parakou is hot. The average annual temperature is 27°C and approximately 1081mm of precipitation falls per year. August is the wettest month, receiving around 242mm of rainfall. Parakou sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Parakou sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 20°C to 37°C. March is the hottest month, with daytime highs reaching 37°C and an average of 30°C. January is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 20°C and an average of 27°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 11°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs. The sharpest temperature change occurs between January and February, with a 2°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
Parakou is a moderately rainy area, receiving approximately 1081mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 90mm per month. The wettest month is August, averaging 242mm of rainfall. September and July also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is December, with just 0mm. That's 242mm less than August, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Parakou is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 7km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is April, averaging 9km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in September, with average winds dropping to 6km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. There is moderate seasonal variation in wind speed, with a 3km/h gap between the calmest and windiest months.
Seasons
87 days until Winter
It is currently autumn in Parakou, which began on September 23, 2026. Parakou sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in March at around 37°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in January near 20°C. Winter is next, beginning on December 21, 2026 (87 days from now).
Spring
Temperatures range from 24 to 37°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 180mm for the season, averaging 60mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 8km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season. It is a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from 22 to 31°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 584mm across the season with a monthly average of 195mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 7km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal. Perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 22 to 35°C. Rainfall is heavy, totalling around 314mm across the season with a monthly average of 105mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 6km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 20 to 36°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 3mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 8km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Parakou based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.
