Using event history analyses, we investigate the impact of rainfall conditions — a
crucial environmental factor in the livelihood of Sahelian households — on the risk
of the first village departure in Burkina Faso. The distinction of migrations by destination
and duration proves critical in studying this relationship. Findings suggest
that people from the drier regions are more likely than those from wetter areas to
engage in both temporary and permanent migrations to other rural areas. Also, shortterm
rainfall deficits tend to increase the risk of long-term migration to rural areas
and decrease the risk of short-term moves to distant destinations.