Last updated: January 18, 2025
Qena, Egypt, is characterized by a Koppen-Geiger climate classification of BWh, indicative of a hot desert climate. The region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) in January, rising to an average of 26°C (78°F) throughout the year. The summer months can be particularly harsh, with peak temperatures soaring up to 45°C (114°F) in August. This climate pattern underscores the significant aridity and heat that define Qena's environmental conditions.
Qena, Egypt, exhibits distinctly seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, beginning with a cool winter that features minimum temperatures around 2°C (37°F) in January, which gradually rise to 23°C (73°F) by August. The spring months usher in a transition, with March temperatures peaking at 43°C (110°F), while April and May show a notable increase in warmth, often reaching maximums of 42°C (107°F) and 45°C (113°F) respectively. The summer months of June, July, and August maintain these extreme levels, typically capping at 45°C (114°F), accompanied by elevated nighttime lows. As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to cool, with average highs decreasing to around 28°C (82°F) in October and dropping further through November and December, marking a return to the milder conditions seen in winter. This range of temperatures underscores Qena's characteristics as a hot desert climate, vividly illustrating the stark contrasts between its seasons.
The climate in the region shows striking similarities across three locations. In Qus, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 45°C (114°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Qus. Dishna experiences identical extremes, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) in January and peaking at 45°C (114°F) in July, according to the monthly temperatures in Dishna. Meanwhile, Qina also records a minimum of 3°C (37°F) in January, but reaches a slightly lower maximum of 45°C (113°F) in August, as outlined in the monthly temperatures in Qina.
Qena, Egypt, is characterized by an extremely arid climate, with precipitation levels that are exceptionally low throughout the year. Recorded data shows that from January through December, rainfall is virtually nonexistent, with most months reporting 0 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation. Only February registers a slight trace of 1 mm, further highlighting the region's relentless dry conditions. This scarcity of rainfall contributes to Qena's classification as a hot desert climate, where moisture is minimal and evaporation rates typically exceed any sporadic rainfall.
The complete absence of rainy days throughout the year reinforces the region's drought-like atmosphere, where plant life and agriculture face significant challenges due to water scarcity. Consequently, the reliance on irrigation systems and underground water sources becomes critical for sustaining both natural ecosystems and agricultural practices. Understanding this lack of precipitation is vital for addressing water management and agricultural strategies in Qena, ensuring that the effects of its arid climate are effectively navigated.
Qena, Egypt, experiences a remarkable pattern of sunshine duration that evolves distinctly across the seasons. Beginning in winter, January records 249 hours of sunlight, which gradually increases to 295 hours in February. This trend continues into spring, with March and April showcasing rising figures of 342 and 349 hours, respectively. By May, the region enters a phase of abundant sunlight, culminating in a peak during the summer months, where July achieves an impressive 389 hours of sunshine. This steady rise underscores Qena's transition from shorter winter days to the long, sun-drenched days of summer.
As the summer progresses into late summer and early autumn, the sunshine hours remain high but start to decline slightly, with August still boasting 374 hours. This decrease continues into September, October, and November, with sunshine hours totaling 339, 331, and 305 hours, respectively. The consistent presence of sunlight throughout the year not only influences the region's climate but also impacts agricultural practices, making Qena a prime location for crops that thrive in high solar exposure. Overall, Qena's sunshine duration highlights the significance of solar energy as a renewable resource and emphasizes its vital role in both the local ecology and economy.
Qena, Egypt, experiences significant variations in UV Index throughout the year, reflecting the intensity of solar radiation that residents and visitors are exposed to. In the winter months, January and December show a UV Index of 7 and 6, respectively, categorized as high, with recommended burn times of 25 minutes. As the seasons transition into spring, the UV Index rises sharply, reaching 9 in February and escalating to an extreme 11 by March. This dramatic increase signals that precautions against sun exposure become increasingly critical, particularly as the spring months progress.
The summer season presents the highest levels of UV radiation, with April through July consistently exhibiting an extreme UV Index of 12. During this period, the recommended burn time compresses to just 10 minutes, emphasizing the urgent need for sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing. While August and September slightly decrease to an 11 UV Index, they remain within the extreme category, before tapering off in the fall. October and November retain a very high classification with UV indices of 9 and 8, suggesting that even during these months, awareness of UV exposure remains important. The notable fluctuations in this index throughout the year underscore the necessity for sun safety in Qena's consistently sunny climate.
UV Risk Categories
Qena, Egypt, exhibits a distinct cycling of daylight duration throughout the year, reflecting the region's geographic position and climatic patterns. In January, the daylight hours begin at 10 hours, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February as spring approaches. By March, the trend continues positively, reaching 12 hours of daylight, which is maintained through the month of April. This period signifies a pivotal transition towards longer days as the region warms up, peaking in May and June with a sustained duration of 13 hours—the longest daylight hours of the year.
As summer shifts into autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off slowly. July also enjoys 13 hours of sunlight, but by August, this declines to 12 hours. September retains the same 12 hours before descending into 11 hours in October. The decline continues into November and December, where daylight returns to 10 hours. This semi-annual rhythm of daylight duration is crucial for both daily activities and agricultural practices, as it impacts crop cycles and the lifestyle of local communities. The predictable pattern of sunlight in Qena emphasizes the region's strong connection to the natural cycles of day and night.
Dishna, Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate with minimal precipitation and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Temperatures peak in the summer months, often reaching maximums of 45°C (113°F), while winter months have milder averages around 14°C (57°F) in January. The region enjoys over 380 hours of sunshine from May to July, making it one of the sunniest periods. Rainfall is exceedingly rare, with most months recording no precipitation. For more details, visit Dishna climate.
Farshut, Egypt experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal precipitation throughout the year. January sees cooler temperatures with an average of 14°C (57°F), while summer months, particularly from May to July, can peak around 45°C (113°F). Sunshine is abundant, with over 380 hours recorded in July, ensuring bright and sunny days most of the year. Rainfall is virtually non-existent, with only trace amounts occurring in winter. For more detailed information, visit Farshut climate.
Isna, Egypt experiences a hot desert climate characterized by very high temperatures and minimal precipitation throughout the year. January sees mild temperatures ranging from 4°C to 28°C, while the summer months of June to August can reach maximums of 44°C to 45°C. Rainfall is scarce, with most months receiving little to no precipitation, totaling just a few millimeters annually. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with about 388 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Isna climate.
Naja' Hammadi, Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine year-round. Temperatures range from a cool minimum of 2°C (37°F) in January to soaring highs of 45°C (113°F) in the summer months of May through July. With an average of over 380 sunshine hours in July, the region enjoys bright and arid conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Precipitation is almost nonexistent throughout the year, with January and February recording the only slight amounts. For more details, visit the Naja' Hammadi climate.
Qina, Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate with minimal precipitation, receiving virtually no rain throughout the year except for a trace in May. Temperatures range significantly, with January lows around 3°C (37°F) and peak summer highs reaching 45°C (113°F) in June, July, and August. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in June and July with around 390 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Qina climate.
Qus, Egypt experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and averages peaking at 14°C (58°F), while the summer months of May through August can reach extremes of 45°C (113°F) during the day. The region receives negligible precipitation throughout the year, with most months reporting 0 mm of rain. Sunshine is abundant, with May and July offering the most hours, nearing 389 hours. For more detailed information, visit Qus climate.
In summary, Qena, Egypt, showcases a rich tapestry of climatic characteristics, encompassing significant temperature variations, minimal precipitation, intense sunshine duration, elevated UV indices, and a dynamic cycle of daylight hours. The region's hot desert climate marked by high temperatures and extreme sunlight exposure necessitates careful consideration of sun safety measures for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the predictable patterns of daylight and seasonal changes in UV exposure play a critical role in agricultural practices and energy management in this arid environment. Understanding these climatic elements is vital for addressing both environmental sustainability and public health concerns in Qena, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with its unique desert landscape.