Last updated: January 18, 2025
Duhok, Iraq, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate classified as Csa under the Köppen-Geiger system. The region experiences a wide temperature range, with winter minimums plunging to an extreme -22°C (-7°F) in December, while summer peaks can soar to a scorching 46°C (116°F) in July. The average annual temperature hovers around a comfortable 17°C (63°F), reflecting the area's distinct seasonal variations. This climatic profile presents unique challenges and opportunities for local ecosystems and human activities alike.
In Duhok, Iraq, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal shifts, reflecting the region's Mediterranean climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, see minimum temperatures dropping as low as -22°C (-7°F), while daytime highs remain relatively mild, peaking at 20°C (68°F). As spring approaches, March and April witness a steady warming trend, with average temperatures climbing from 9°C (49°F) to 15°C (59°F), and maximums reaching 35°C (96°F). The transition into summer brings significant heat, with July and August temperatures consistently soaring to 46°C (116°F), while average highs hover around 31°C (88°F). As fall sets in, September marks a gradual decline in temperatures, yet it remains warm, with averages around 26°C (80°F). By late autumn, November and December temperatures cool significantly, bringing minimums down to -22°C (-7°F), effectively encapsulating Duhok's dynamic climate influenced by the interplay of seasonal changes.
Ibrahim al Khalil experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with January seeing a chilly minimum of -12°C (11°F) and July soaring to a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F). For a detailed overview of the monthly temperatures in Ibrahim al Khalil, visit monthly temperatures in Ibrahim al Khalil.
Duhok, Iraq, experiences a pronounced seasonal variation in precipitation, with the majority falling during the colder months. January and February are significant contributors, with rainfall measuring 108 mm (4.3 in) and 97 mm (3.8 in), respectively, and these months typically see around 9 to 10 days of precipitation. The peak occurs in March, with 172 mm (6.8 in) recorded, and an increased frequency of rainy days, totaling 15, before the precipitation begins to taper off in April to 111 mm (4.4 in).
As the region transitions into summer, rainfall dramatically drops, with June, July, August, and September registering only 1 mm (0.0 in) each, resulting in no rainy days during these months. This dry spell persists until October, when precipitation resumes with 34 mm (1.3 in), followed by 63 mm (2.5 in) in November. December again brings notable rainfall at 126 mm (5.0 in), further contributing to the winter months' wetter climate. Overall, Duhok's precipitation patterns are sharply seasonal, with wet winters and extremely dry summers dominating the annual cycle.
In Duhok, Iraq, the sunshine duration exhibits a clear and steady increase as the year progresses from winter into summer. Starting the year with 203 hours of sunshine in January, the months following demonstrate a consistent upward trend. February sees a rise to 255 hours, and by March, the duration climbs even further to 302 hours. April marks a significant milestone with 341 hours, setting the stage for the peak summer months. May continues this upward trajectory, reaching 390 hours, while June and July culminate in the highest recorded sunshine, with 405 hours and 414 hours, respectively.
As summer wanes and autumn approaches, the number of sunshine hours begins to decline, though September still boasts an impressive 348 hours. October witnesses further diminishing sunlight at 313 hours, followed by November's 267 hours and December's 235 hours. This seasonal pattern underscores Duhok’s warm climate, characterized by long, sun-filled days during the hotter months and shorter, cooler moments in winter, allowing for varied outdoor activities while illustrating the city’s dynamic light cycles throughout the year.
The UV Index in Duhok, Iraq, reveals significant seasonal fluctuations that inform residents and visitors about the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. Starting the year, January presents a moderate exposure with a UV Index of 4, implying a burn time of 30 minutes. As February arrives, UV levels rise to 6, indicating high exposure risks and reducing burn time to 25 minutes. The spring months, particularly March and April, see a notable spike, with both months exhibiting a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, and a critical burn time that shortens to just 15 minutes as the sun's rays intensify.
The peak UV levels occur in late spring and summer, where May to July consistently record an extreme UV Index of 12, resulting in a mere 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. August follows closely with an Index of 11, indicating extreme conditions still persist. As summer fades into autumn, a gradual decline is observed, with September returning to a UV Index of 9 before dropping to high levels of 7 in October. The UV Index falls further in the winter months, with November and December registering moderate levels of 4 and 3, respectively, both allowing for a safer 30 minutes of exposure. This pattern highlights the necessity for vigilance against sun exposure, particularly during the hotter months when UV radiation poses the greatest risk to skin health.
UV Risk Categories
In Duhok, Iraq, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, progressing from shorter days in winter to longer days in summer. January provides only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. The arrival of spring brings a noticeable uptick, with daylight reaching 13 hours in April and peaking at 14 hours during both May and June. This extended sunlight is ideal for outdoor activities and agriculture, as the region basks in the warmth and growth potential of its longest days.
As summer begins to fade, daylight hours start to decrease, although July still maintains 14 hours of sunlit time. August sees a slight reduction to 13 hours, followed by a gradual decline through September's 12 hours and into October with 11 hours. By November, daylight reduces to 10 hours, and the cycle culminates again in December with 9 hours, reflecting the return to wintry shorter days. This annual daylight pattern underscores Duhok's subtropical climate, enhancing the natural beauty and lifestyle offerings as the town transitions between seasons.
Ibrahim al Khalil, Iraq experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -12°C (11°F), while July peaks at a scorching 45°C (113°F). Precipitation is highest in the early months, averaging around 145 mm (5.7 in) in March, and virtually nonexistent from July to September. Sunshine is abundant, reaching up to 416 hours in July, providing a bright and arid summer. For more details, visit Ibrahim al Khalil climate.
In conclusion, Duhok, Iraq, presents a fascinating interplay of climatic elements that define its environmental and cultural landscape. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, and UV Index, all of which impact daily life and recreational opportunities. From the scorching summer months boasting extreme heat and long daylight hours to the cooler, wetter winters characterized by shorter days, Duhok's climate influences everything from agriculture to tourism. Understanding these climatic patterns allows residents and visitors alike to better appreciate the region's unique offerings and to adapt their activities in alignment with the changing seasons.