Since the end of February 2026, an exceptional heatwave has been affecting Côte d'Ivoire. Faced with this temperature peak, which is expected to last until the end of March, the Airport, Aeronautical and Meteorological Development and Operating Company (Sodexam) is calling for increased vigilance.

Why is it so hot?

This phenomenon, although seasonal, has reached unusual proportions this year. Several factors explain this heatwave:

1. Direct radiation: The sun hits the territory early and intensely.
2. The "Clear Sky" effect: In the North and Central regions, the harmattan wind dissipates the clouds, allowing UV rays to pass through without any filter.
3. Overheating ocean: Usually refreshing, the monsoon coming from the Gulf of Guinea arrives this time laden with heat due to an abnormal warming of the sea surface.

A country divided in two by the thermometer

Current temperatures far exceed the averages recorded over the period 1991-2020:

Geographic Area	Temperatures recorded	Sky conditions / Wind
North and Central	35°C to 39°C	Clear skies, dry wind (Harmattan)
South (Coast)	32°C to 34°C	Humid and warm air

⚠️ Health risks and precautions to take

Sodexam warns: this heat is not just uncomfortable, it is dangerous . The risks of severe dehydration, hyperthermia, and heatstroke are real.

Official recommendations:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
2. Take shelter: Avoid sun exposure during the most critical hours (between 11am and 4pm).
3. Monitor the most vulnerable: Special attention should be paid to young children, seniors and people suffering from chronic or dermatological conditions.

Expert advice: Stay connected to daily weather reports to adapt your professional and sporting activities to changing temperatures.