Aswan Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Aswan, Egypt, characterized by the BWh Köppen-Geiger climate classification, exhibits a distinct arid desert climate marked by significant temperature variations. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F) in January, rising to an average of 27°C (81°F) throughout the year. Notably, the peak heat is recorded in May, where temperatures can soar to a maximum of 47°C (116°F). Such extreme thermal conditions underscore the climatic challenges and ecological uniqueness of Aswan, making it a fascinating subject for climate studies.

Aswan temperature by month

Aswan, Egypt experiences pronounced seasonal temperature patterns, beginning with cool winter months from January to March, where minimum temperatures range from 4°C (40°F) to 8°C (47°F) and average highs slowly climb from 31°C (88°F) to 42°C (109°F). The transition into spring marks a rapid increase in temperatures through April, culminating in sweltering summer months from May to August, where average temperatures hover around 33°C (91°F) to 35°C (95°F) and maximums frequently reach above 45°C (113°F). By September, a slight respite is noted, with temperatures beginning to taper off, leading to milder conditions in October and November, before the cooler winter months return in December. This cycle underscores Aswan's distinct arid climate, characterized by extreme heat punctuated by brief, temperate phases.

Monthly Temperatures in Aswan, Egypt

The chart illustrates Aswan's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec616573829195959592867466
Data source: Aswan temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Abu Simbel experiences a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 47°C (116°F) in May monthly temperatures in Abu Simbel. In Idfu, temperatures also range from a minimum of 5°C (40°F) in January to a peak of 46°C (115°F) in July monthly temperatures in Idfu. Aswan shares a similar climate, with a low of 5°C (41°F) in January and reaching up to 47°C (116°F) in June monthly temperatures in Aswan.

Precipitation Patterns in Aswan

Aswan, Egypt, is characterized by an exceptionally arid climate, with precipitation levels consistently recorded at 0 mm throughout the year. This persistent dryness reflects the region’s classification as a desert environment, where rainfall is notably absent across all twelve months. The lack of moisture not only influences the local ecosystem but also shapes agricultural practices and water resource management in the area.

The absence of rainfall further emphasizes the intense heat and high evaporation rates, contributing to the arid landscape. Without seasonal rains to provide relief, Aswan's environment remains largely reliant on its limited water sources, highlighting the challenges faced by its inhabitants and the need for sustainable water usage strategies. This climatic characteristic reinforces the importance of understanding the implications of such arid conditions, especially in the context of climate change and its potential impacts on desert regions.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Aswan, Egypt

The average monthly precipitation in Aswan, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec000000000000
Data source: Aswan precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Aswan

Aswan, Egypt boasts a remarkable abundance of sunshine throughout the year, with a steady increase in sunlight hours from winter to summer. In January, the city receives 255 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 299 hours in February. This upward trend continues into spring, with March offering 343 hours and April reaching 349 hours. As temperatures climb, May stands out as the month with the highest recorded sunshine at 377 hours, closely followed by June with 374 hours. The peak sunshine period occurs during the summer months, particularly from July to August, where Aswan basks in nearly 384 hours of bright sunlight, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and tourism.

As the summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to taper off in September, dropping to 337 hours, and further decline into the autumn months. October sees 331 hours of sunshine, while November and December average 308 and 310 hours, respectively. Despite this decline, Aswan remains one of the sunniest regions in the world, illustrating its unique climatic profile. This consistent availability of sunshine not only enriches the local environment but also highlights potential challenges such as heat stress and the importance of water conservation methods to support life in such an arid setting.

Monthly Sunshine in Aswan, Egypt

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Aswan receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec255h299h343h349h377h374h384h370h337h331h308h310h
Data source: Aswan sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Aswan UV Index Trends

Aswan, Egypt experiences significantly high UV index levels throughout the year, making sun safety a paramount concern for residents and visitors alike. In winter, the UV index starts at 8 in January, categorized as "very high," prompting a burn time of only 15 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV index rises, reaching 9 in February. March marks a dramatic increase, with the index soaring to 12, classified as "extreme," where a mere 10 minutes of sun exposure can result in skin damage. This intensity persists from April through July, indicating a critical time for vigilance against UV radiation, as both April and May also display sustained levels of 12, continuing to emphasize the urgent need for protective measures.

As summer transitions into autumn, the UV index remains significantly elevated, albeit with a slight dip. In August and September, it sits at 11, while October sees a reduction to 10, transitioning back to "very high" status. By November, the index reverts to 8, indicating a continued need for caution, although the burn time extends to 15 minutes. December brings a marginal reprieve with a UV index of 7, categorized as "high" with a burn time of 25 minutes, suggesting that while December offers a little more leniency, protective measures remain advisable. This yearly pattern highlights the intensity of solar exposure in Aswan, underlining the importance of awareness and adherence to sun safety guidelines year-round.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Aswan, Egypt

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Aswan. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89121212121211111087
Data source: Aswan UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Aswan

In Aswan, Egypt, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal progression that aligns with the annual cycle of the sun. January begins with approximately 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February. As spring emerges, March sees a lengthened day of 12 hours, which remains consistent throughout April. This trend continues into the summer months, where daylight peaks at 13 hours from May through July, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration, aligned with the region's warm climate.

As the summer transitions to autumn, daylight hours start to decrease, with August and September both returning to 12-hour days. October marks a further decline to 11 hours, and by November, daylight is back to 10 hours. This shorter daylight duration persists through December, completing the yearly cycle. The rhythmic changes in daylight not only influence daily life in Aswan but also shape the region's agricultural practices and cultural festivities, reflecting the interconnectedness of time and natural cycles in this sun-soaked part of the world.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Aswan, Egypt

This chart shows the total daylight hours Aswan receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec649h680h720h762h797h814h805h774h734h693h657h639h
Data source: Aswan daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Aswan's Popular Destinations

Abu Simbel, Egypt, experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 47°C (116°F) in May. Precipitation is extremely low, with most months recording little to no rainfall, while sunshine is abundant, peaking at 381 hours in July. Visitors can expect vibrant days with clear skies, making it an ideal destination for exploration. For more detailed information, refer to the Abu Simbel climate.

Aswan, Egypt, features a hot desert climate with extreme temperatures, particularly from May to September, where maximums can reach up to 47°C (116°F). Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging around 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is almost nonexistent, with only 1 mm in May, and most months receive no precipitation at all. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 382 hours. For more detailed information, visit Aswan climate.

Idfu, Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by scorching summers and mild winters. Average temperatures soar to about 35°C (95°F) in the hottest months of June to August, with maximum temperatures sometimes reaching 46°C (115°F). Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, totaling just 1 mm in November, while sunshine is abundant, peaking at 388 hours in July. This combination of high temperatures and low rainfall makes Idfu a predominantly dry and sunny location. For more details, visit Idfu climate.

Kawm Umbu, Egypt experiences a hot desert climate with very little rainfall throughout the year, receiving virtually no precipitation from May to October, and only a trace in November. Temperatures range significantly, with January's averages at 16°C (61°F) rising to a scorching 35°C (95°F) in July and August, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 46°C (116°F). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 385 hours, contributing to its arid conditions. For more detailed information on the climate, visit Kawm Umbu climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the climate of Aswan, Egypt, characterized by its extreme temperatures, persistent sunshine, high UV index, and varying daylight duration, presents a unique environment that significantly influences both daily life and the natural ecosystem. The region's distinctive seasonal patterns emphasize the importance of sun safety due to the consistently high UV levels, alongside the notable shifts in daylight hours that dictate agricultural and recreational activities. Understanding these climatic elements is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it not only fosters awareness of the environmental challenges but also highlights the rich cultural and ecological tapestry woven into the fabric of life in this remarkable desert region.

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