GIS Dashboard for Precipitation, Temperature and Solar Radiation
Niger State experiences a tropical savanna climate (Aw in the Köppen classification), characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. These climatic factors significantly influence agriculture, water resources, energy potential, and livelihoods. Below is a detailed breakdown of precipitation, temperature, and solar radiation patterns in the state.
1. Precipitation (Rainfall) Patterns Seasonal Distribution
Niger State experiences distinct wet and dry seasons shaped by regional climatic patterns. The wet season (April–October) begins with rainfall onset in April, first affecting southern areas like Shiroro and Lapai before progressing northward. Peak rainfall occurs between June and September, driven by moisture-laden southwesterly monsoon winds from the Atlantic Ocean. July and August are the wettest months, often recording over 250 mm of rainfall monthly, with precipitation tapering off by late October. The dry season (November–March) is characterized by minimal rainfall, with December to February marked by the dry, dusty harmattan winds. Spatially, rainfall distribution varies significantly: southern zones (e.g., Shiroro, Lapai, Minna) receive higher annual totals (1,400–1,600 mm) due to proximity to the Niger River and forested ecosystems, while northern areas (e.g., Kontagora, Borgu, Rijau) transition toward semi-arid conditions with lower precipitation (1,100–1,300 mm annually).
2. Atmospheric Temperature Trends
Niger State exhibits distinct thermal gradients that reflect its varied geography, spanning from riverine valleys to arid northern savannas. The data reveals three primary temperature regimes across its Local Government Areas (LGAs). The moderate thermal zone (24°C–38°C; mean 31°C) dominates southern and central LGAs, including Agaie (1870.749 sq km), Bida (53.784 sq km), and Mokwa (4395.315 sq km), where floodplains and inland savannas mitigate extremes. A warmer band (25°C–39°C; mean 32°C) covers transitional areas like Bosso (1516.665 sq km), Lapai (2434.136 sq km), and Shiroro (2074.310 sq km), where elevation slightly tempers daytime highs. The hottest conditions prevail in northern arid zones: LGAs such as Kontagora (706.408 sq km), Magama (1793.745 sq km), and Rijau (773.280 sq km) endure peak temperatures of 27°C–40°C (mean 33.5°C), with Rijau’s 2485.822 sq km area even reaching 28°C–41°C (mean 34.5°C)—the state’s highest recorded range.
Notably, urban and peri-urban LGAs like Chanchaga (65.408 sq km) and Suleja (121.503 sq km) align with the 32°C mean, while riverine Agwara (1534.195 sq km) shares the northern-like 33.5°C mean, likely due to humidity-trapping effects. Thermal asymmetry is evident in large LGAs: Mariga splits between 4401.990 sq km at 33.5°C and 1611.717 sq km at 33°C, while Mashegu transitions from 4724.734 sq km (32°C) to 4910.594 sq km (33°C). The Shiroro Dam region (3355.819 sq km) maintains a 33°C mean, suggesting water bodies exert limited cooling. These patterns underscore how Niger State’s climate shifts from milder southern plains to scorching northern frontiers, with implications for agriculture, water management, and heat stress resilience.
Key thermal takeaways:
Coolest: Southern floodplains (31°C mean)
Hottest: Northern Sahelian fringe (Rijau at 34.5°C mean)
Transitional: Central uplands (32°C mean)
Urban areas: Mirror surrounding rural temps (e.g., Suleja at 32°C)
3. Solar Radiation & Renewable Energy Potential Solar Insolation Patterns
Niger State boasts exceptional solar energy potential, with an annual average solar insolation of 5.5–6.0 kWh/m²/day—among the highest in Nigeria. Seasonal variations further influence solar availability: during the dry season (November–March), peak radiation reaches 6.5–7.0 kWh/m²/day due to minimal cloud cover, while the wet season (May–September) sees reduced levels (4.5–5.0 kWh/m²/day) because of increased cloudiness.
This abundant solar resource presents significant opportunities for renewable energy applications. Large-scale solar farms are particularly viable in high-insolation zones like Kontagora and New Bussa, where consistent sunlight ensures optimal energy output. For decentralized solutions, off-grid solar systems—such as solar-powered irrigation pumps—can support dry-season farming, mitigating water scarcity. Additionally, household solar installations offer a sustainable electricity alternative for rural communities with limited grid access, enhancing energy equity and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.