Extreme Temperature in Burkina Faso: Decadal Spatio-Temporal Changes Between 1960 and 2019

Abstract

Studies carried out in Burkina Faso focus on rainfall, leaving aside those relating to maximum temperatures, which can have repercussions on human health and the environment. The main objective of this study is to analyse the dynamics of maximum temperatures between 1960 and 2019, using Worldclim satellite data on maximum temperatures. Data processing was based on zonal statistics and spatial analyses, using QGIS software. The study shows that maximum temperatures increased between 1969 and 2019. Average maximum temperatures were high during the period 1960-1969, at 35°C. Thereafter, average maximum temperatures fell to 33°C between 1970 and 1979 and 32°C between 1980 and 1999. However, they rose again between 200-2019, with maximum temperatures of 34°C. These maximum temperatures vary very little (CV less than 20%) over the period 1969-2019. Seasonal variability in maximum temperatures has also been observed, with a significant increase in maximum temperatures during the dry season compared with the rainy season. It is therefore important for the government of Burkina Faso to take urgent measures to protect vulnerable groups (the elderly and children) from heat waves resulting from rising maximum temperatures.