Last updated: January 18, 2025
Karbalāʼ, Iraq, exhibits a BWh climate classification, characterized by arid conditions and significant temperature variations throughout the year. In the winter months, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -2°C (28°F) in January. As the seasons transition, the region warms, averaging a comfortable 25°C (78°F). However, the peak of summer brings extreme heat, with maximum temperatures soaring to a staggering 51°C (124°F) in July. This wide range in temperature underscores the distinctive characteristics of Karbalāʼ’s climate, influencing both the local ecology and human activities.
In Karbalāʼ, Iraq, temperature patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal progression, transitioning from chilly winter months to sweltering summers. January begins the year with minimum temperatures dipping to -2°C (28°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), gradually warming through February and March, when mid-month averages reach 18°C (66°F). By April, the climate shifts dramatically, with temperatures climbing to an average of 24°C (76°F) and maximums peaking at 43°C (110°F). The heat intensifies further in May and June, where average temperatures soar to 31°C (87°F) and 35°C (95°F), respectively. The peak summer months of July and August are characterized by extreme heat, with maximum temperatures hitting 51°C (124°F) in July and remaining close at 50°C (122°F) in August. As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to cool, resulting in a gradual decline through September and October, before giving way to the cooler winter months of November and December, which experience a return to milder conditions with average temperatures settling around 14°C (57°F). This pronounced seasonal variation underscores Karbalāʼ's unique climate dynamics.
In the region of Karbala, temperatures can vary significantly throughout the year. 'Ayn Tamr experiences a minimum of -1°C (30°F) in February and peaks at 49°C (120°F) in July monthly temperatures in 'Ayn Tamr. Al Hindiyah records even colder temperatures with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in January, while also reaching a high of 51°C (124°F) in July monthly temperatures in Al Hindiyah. Similarly, Karbala also faces a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in January and experiences maximum temperatures of 51°C (123°F) in July monthly temperatures in Karbala.
Karbalāʼ, Iraq, experiences a predominantly dry climate with limited precipitation, concentrated in the winter and early spring months. January sees a total rainfall of 13 mm (0.5 in) over approximately 2 days, followed by February, which records 25 mm (1.0 in) of rain across 3 days. March also contributes to this pattern with 16 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days, while April continues with 13 mm (0.5 in), limiting the annual rainfall to a few select months.
As temperatures rise, precipitation significantly dwindles from May through September, with summer months recording virtually no rainfall, totaling 0 mm for each month. In October, a slight increase occurs, but only 2 mm (0.1 in) is measured, and November experiences the highest rainfall of the year, with 30 mm (1.2 in) over 3 days. This is followed by December, which mirrors January's rainfall pattern with 13 mm (0.5 in). Overall, the precipitation in Karbalāʼ is characterized by a stark seasonal contrast, making the region largely arid, particularly during the peak summer months.
In Karbalāʼ, Iraq, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter to summer. Starting the year, January receives 227 hours of sunshine, which rises to 268 hours in February and continues to gain momentum through March, where it reaches 325 hours. April marks a significant leap with 332 hours, as the region transitions into the warmer months. The peak sunshine period occurs from May to July, highlighted by June's total of 379 hours and July's impressive 386 hours. This is indicative of Karbalāʼ's arid climate, where clear skies dominate during the hotter season, offering extensive sunlight for outdoor activities.
As summer wanes into autumn, sunshine hours begin to decline, though they remain substantial. August sees 367 hours, followed by September with 332 hours, showcasing a gradual reduction in daylight. October maintains a noteworthy 314 hours, with November and December closing the year at 275 hours and 272 hours, respectively. Despite the reduction towards winter, the overall annual pattern remains characterized by abundant sunshine, making Karbalāʼ a notably bright and sunny destination, particularly during the peak summer months.
In Karbalāʼ, Iraq, the UV Index exhibits a pronounced seasonal variation, reflecting the intensity of sunlight throughout the year. January starts with a moderate UV Index of 4, offering a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as winter transitions to spring, values surge significantly. February’s index rises to 6 (high exposure, 25 minutes burn time), and by March, it escalates to 9, categorized as very high, with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. This alarming trend continues into April, where the UV Index remains at 9, emphasizing the need for increased sun protection as the hotter months draw closer.
The peak of the UV Index occurs during the summer months of May, June, and July, recording extreme levels of 12 and 11, respectively, with burn times significantly shortened to 10 minutes. While August sees a slight decline to a very high index of 10 (with a burn time of 15 minutes), September and October transition back to lower values of 9 and 7, indicating a return to more manageable exposure levels. As the year concludes, November and December reflect moderate UV conditions with indices of 5 and 4, allowing for longer safe sun exposure. Understanding these UV Index trends is essential for residents and visitors to ensure proper sun safety measures are adopted, particularly during the peak summer months.
UV Risk Categories
In Karbalāʼ, Iraq, daylight duration showcases a clear seasonal progression, beginning with shorter days in the winter months. January experiences approximately 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 11 hours in both February and March. As spring approaches, April marks a further extension to 12 hours, heralding longer days and warmer weather. This trend continues into May, where daylight extends to 13 hours, and peaks in June and July at 14 hours, providing residents ample time for outdoor activities under the sun.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off again. August sees a slight decrease back to 13 hours, followed by September and October with 12 hours and 11 hours, respectively as daylight shortens. By November and December, daylight reverts to 10 hours once more, completing the annual cycle. Understanding these patterns helps the local population and visitors to plan their daily activities effectively, taking advantage of the extended sunlight during the summer months while adapting to shorter days in winter.
'Ayn Tamr, Iraq experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by extreme temperatures, particularly from May to August, when average highs exceed 30°C (86°F) and can reach as high as 49°C (120°F) in July. Winters are mild, with January temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) to 22°C (73°F) and modest rainfall peaking in February at 23 mm (0.9 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly during the hot months, with July boasting up to 385 hours of sun. Rainfall is scarce in summer, with several months receiving no precipitation at all. For more detailed information, visit 'Ayn Tamr climate.
The climate in Al Hindiyah, Iraq is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures in summer months can reach highs of up to 51°C (124°F) in July and August, while winter temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) in January to 19°C (67°F) in November. Precipitation is minimal during the summer, with July and August receiving no rainfall, while December and February see the highest levels of precipitation at 15 mm (0.6 in) and 31 mm (1.2 in) respectively. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer, with July averaging 387 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Al Hindiyah climate.
Karbala, Iraq, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extreme temperatures and minimal rainfall. Summer months, particularly July and August, see average highs reaching up to 38°C (100°F) and even maxing out at 51°C (123°F), while winter temperatures can drop to a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in January. Precipitation is scarce, primarily occurring between November and February, with June to September typically seeing no rainfall at all. Despite the heat, sunshine is abundant year-round, peaking in June with 379 hours. For more information, visit Karbala climate.
In conclusion, Karbalāʼ, Iraq, is characterized by distinct climatic patterns that significantly influence the region's temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The intense summer heat, exemplified by soaring temperatures and high UV levels, necessitates careful sun protection, while the stark seasonal variations in daylight duration provide opportunities for outdoor activities and agriculture. Despite the arid conditions marked by limited precipitation, the region's ample sunshine fosters a vibrant environment. Understanding these aspects of Karbalāʼ’s climate is essential for residents and visitors alike, enabling them to make informed decisions about health, recreation, and lifestyle amidst the dynamic changes of each season.