Climate Type:
Kumasi, Ghana, experiences both tropical wet and dry climates, which is referred to as dry tropical climatic type characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season typically occurs from November to March, with higher temperatures and lower humidity. The wet season on the other hand spans from April to October with the peak of rainfall in June and July, with relatively cooler temperatures. Overall, Kumasi experiences warmth throughout the year, with consistent temperature alternations between wet and dry periods.
Temperature:
Kumasi experiences warm temperatures throughout the year as a result of its tropical climate. The average temperature ranges from around 70 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. With its highest temperatures being recorded during the dry season, from November to March, and cooler temperatures during the wet season, from April to October.
The graph above shows the average temperature in Kumasi in previous years.
Precipitation:
The city of Kumasi receives the most precipitation during the wet season. The peak of the rainfall is generally in June and July. During this, the city sees intense rainfall, which contributes greatly to the lush greenery and vegetation in the region. On the contrary, the city experiences a reduction in rainfall during its dry season.
The graph above shows the pattern of rainfall and the temperature during those months in Kumasi.
The picture above shows the two distinct seasons in Ghana. Rainy and Dry season respectively.
Humidity:
Humidity tends to be higher during the wet season as a result of the frequent rainfall. This is associated with higher humidity because of the moisture in the air after the rain. Humidity is however lower during the dry season.
Wind Direction:
In Kumasi, they experience the Harmattan wind which is a dry and dusty wind that is prominent during the dry season. During the wet season, the direction of the wind varies and it is influenced by the movement of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) which is a low pressure where trade winds converge near the equator. This changes the wind patterns.
Air Masses:
Two primary air masses impact Kumasi and these are influenced by the two distinct seasons the city experiences. Maritime Tropical (mT) Air Mass is characterized by moisture and warmth, this occurs during the wet season (April to October). Continental Tropical (cT) Air Mass is also characterized by dryness and warmth and it is experienced during the dry season (November to March).
Weather Systems and Severe Weather:
Kumasi experiences a pronounced rainy season that occurs from April to October. During this the city experiences intense rainfall and thunderstorms, contributing to frequent floods and destruction of homes. In addition to this, the city also goes through the dry season which spans from November to March. During this time, the city experiences an intense dry and dusty wind from the Sahara.