Last updated: January 18, 2025
Salah ad Din, Iraq, experiences a semi-arid climate, categorized under the Köppen-Geiger classes of BSh and BWh. This region is characterized by extreme temperature variations, ranging from a frigid minimum of -5°C (23°F) in February to scorching maximums of 52°C (125°F) during the peak of July. The average annual temperature hovers around a comfortable 25°C (76°F), reflecting the stark contrasts typical of its climate. Such dynamics influence not only the local weather patterns but also the ecological and agricultural landscapes in the area.
The temperature patterns in Salah ad Din, Iraq, reveal distinct seasonal fluctuations throughout the year. Winter months, from January to February, present relatively cool conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to as low as -5°C (23°F), while daytime averages gradually rise from 10°C (51°F) to 13°C (55°F). As spring approaches, temperatures begin to increase significantly, with March showcasing a marked transition as average temperatures soar to 17°C (63°F) and maximums reaching 37°C (99°F). The onset of summer brings sweltering heat, peaking in July and August, where average temperatures climb to 38°C (101°F) and 37°C (99°F), with maximums touching extremes of 52°C (125°F) and 50°C (123°F), respectively. As the year advances toward autumn, a gradual cooling trend re-emerges, with September and October temperatures reflecting a return to milder conditions, averaging around 34°C (93°F) and 27°C (81°F). Finally, late fall and winter months return to cooler climatic conditions, completing the cyclical temperature narrative of the region.
Samarra' experiences extreme temperature variations throughout the year, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) in February and a scorching maximum of 51°C (125°F) in July. For more detailed insights into the monthly temperatures in Samarra', visit monthly temperatures in Samarra'.
Precipitation in Salah ad Din, Iraq, demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the winter and early spring months. January begins the year with 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain over 4 days, while February and March see increased precipitation, recording 52 mm (2.0 in) and 54 mm (2.1 in) respectively, each lasting around 6 days. April experiences a reduction to 39 mm (1.5 in), as the onset of warmer temperatures begins to diminish rainfall. By May, precipitation drops drastically to a mere 5 mm (0.2 in), with no rainfall occurring during the summer months from June to September, resulting in periods of prolonged dry conditions.
As autumn sets in, the dry season typically continues into October with only 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain across 1 day, but November marks a resurgence in precipitation with 35 mm (1.4 in) falling over 4 days. December follows with 44 mm (1.7 in) over 5 days, underscoring a return to wetter conditions as the year closes. This precipitation pattern highlights the semi-arid climate of the region, where the rainy season is concentrated in winter and spring, contrasting sharply with the long, dry summer months that can significantly influence local water resources and agricultural practices.
In Salah ad Din, Iraq, sunlight plays a crucial role in shaping the annual climate, with sunshine duration exhibiting a clear seasonal progression. The year begins with a modest 221 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing to 260 hours in February. As spring approaches, sunshine hours continue to rise, peaking at 335 hours in April and reaching an impressive 380 hours in May. The culmination of this trend occurs during the summer months, where sunshine reaches its zenith, with July recording 388 hours of bright sunlight. This consistent increase from winter to summer not only highlights the region's transition but also underscores the significance of solar energy availability during these warmer months.
Post-summer, a gradual decline in sunshine hours is observed as the year progresses into autumn and winter. August still enjoys 370 hours of sunshine, but by September, this number drops to 334 hours. October and November see further declines, with 310 hours and 270 hours respectively. As the year concludes, December reflects a decrease to 258 hours. This seasonal variation emphasizes the stark contrast between bright, sun-filled summers and the comparatively gloomier winter months, shaping local agricultural practices and lifestyle choices. The high sunshine hours, especially during summer, provide ample light for crops while also impacting daily life and energy consumption in the region.
In Salah ad Din, Iraq, the UV Index displays significant seasonal fluctuations, reflecting the region's climatic dynamics. Beginning the year in January, the UV Index is 4, which indicates a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, requiring about 30 minutes of time before risking skin damage. As the months progress, February sees a slight increase to 5. However, a dramatic surge occurs in March and April, where UV Index levels escalate to 8 and 9, categorizing them as very high and reducing the safe exposure time to just 15 minutes. May marks a critical turning point with an extreme UV Index of 11, necessitating vigilance as exposure time decreases further to only 10 minutes.
The summer months sustain this intensity, with July remaining at 11, emphasizing the peril of prolonged sun exposure during this period. August drops slightly to 10, while September remains in the very high risk category at 9. As autumn approaches, the UV Index declines gradually, with October reporting a high value of 7, extending burn time back to 25 minutes. However, by November and December, the UV Index further decreases to 5 and 3, indicating a return to moderate levels, with burn times back to 30 minutes. This variability in UV exposure underscores the importance of protective measures, particularly during the peak months of May through September when the risk is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
In Salah ad Din, Iraq, daylight duration presents a compelling pattern that aligns closely with the progression of seasons. The year commences with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a steady yet limited amount of sunlight during the winter months. As spring arrives in March, daylight begins to extend, increasing to 11 hours. This trend continues through April and May, where daylight reaches 13 hours, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural work as the region warms up.
The summer months of June and July mark the peak of daylight duration, boasting 14 hours of sunlight each day, which significantly enhances the region's agricultural potential and daily life. As summer transitions to autumn, a gradual decline begins; August maintains 13 hours before tapering down to 12 hours in September. The descent in daylight continues into the fall months, with October reporting 11 hours and November returning to 10 hours. December witnesses the least daylight, with just 9 hours, encapsulating the cycle of light throughout the year and its influence on local culture, lifestyle, and seasonal activities.
Samarra', Iraq, experiences a diverse climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees temperatures ranging from -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while July can reach extremes of up to 51°C (125°F). The region receives most of its precipitation between January and April, with nearly 55 mm (2.2 in) in February, while the summer months remain dry. Samarra' enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, peaking in July with 384 hours. For more detailed information, visit Samarra' climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Salah ad Din, Iraq, is characterized by significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight duration, each playing a crucial role in shaping the region's ecological and societal dynamics. From the extreme heat of summer months with elevated UV levels to the moderate winter temperatures and limited rainfall, these climatic factors not only influence local agricultural practices but also impact daily life and energy consumption. Understanding these trends is essential for effective planning and resource management, particularly as the region faces ongoing challenges related to climate variability. The interconnectivity of these climatic elements highlights the need for continued observation and adaptation strategies to ensure sustainable living in this unique environment.