Extreme rainfall years in Benin (West Africa)

This research examines recent years' rainfall extremes and their socioeconomic and environmental impacts in Benin. The annual rainfall amounts of the 1922-2005 series for 16 stations spread throughout the country were used, as recorded in the files of the Agency for Air Navigation Safety (ASECNA-Cotonou). In addition, investigations in the environment have been conducted to understand the impacts experienced by communities. The data and information collected were processed using statistical tools and maps. Analysis shows a strong incidence of extreme rainfall during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in the south, while the 1970s and 1980s recorded very dry years. In all cases, wet and dry years pose problems for rural and urban communities. The projected climate change will increase the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall and drought and their consequences, and development policies must take that into account. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd and INQUA. All rights reserved.