Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Kidal, Mali, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BWh, indicating a hot desert environment characterized by extreme temperature variations. Winter months see a minimum temperature plummeting to around 5°C (42°F) in December, while summer peaks dramatically with an average temperature of 29°C (85°F), and can reach scorching highs of 47°C (116°F) in July. This stark climate underscores the resilience required for life in this remote region, where both flora and fauna have adapted to survive in harsh conditions.
Kidal, Mali, experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns characterized by a dramatic rise in heat as the year progresses. The year begins with cooler winter months, where January and February see minimum temperatures around 6°C (42°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). As spring approaches, temperatures escalate, peaking in May, with maximum temperatures soaring to 47°C (116°F). The heat reaches its zenith in the summer months of June and July, where average temperatures hover around 36°C (98°F) before gradually cooling down in August and September. By the time October rolls in, temperatures begin to decline, and the cycle restarts in November and December, as cooler nights return with minimums reaching 5°C (42°F). This variation illustrates the harsh climate dynamics of Kidal, where extreme heat defines the dry season and cooler temperatures mark the transitional months.
Ti-n-Essako experiences a temperature range with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) in January and a scorching maximum of 45°C (114°F) in July monthly temperatures in Ti-n-Essako. Similarly, Abeibara records slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January and reaching up to 46°C (115°F) in July monthly temperatures in Abeibara. Kidal has a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) in January, with its highest temperature of 46°C (115°F) occurring in June monthly temperatures in Kidal.
Kidal, Mali, is characterized by a predominantly arid climate, with minimal precipitation observed throughout the year. The early months, from January to April, receive virtually no rainfall, with January and March recording 0 mm. Only slight moisture is noted in February and May, each contributing just 1 mm of rain. As the wet season begins, June marks a slight increase with 2 mm of precipitation, yet the true onset of rainfall occurs in July and August, when the region accumulates 6 mm and 22 mm, respectively. This brief peak in rainfall occurs during the hottest months, indicating a tenuous balance between temperature and moisture.
Following this mid-year surge, precipitation diminishes significantly again in September, falling to 3 mm, before dropping to zero in the final months of the year. The number of rainfall days is equally sparse, with only a handful of days in July (1 day) and August (5 days) experiencing measurable precipitation, and none observed in the remaining months. This stark pattern highlights Kidal's classification as a semi-arid region, underscoring the challenges faced by the ecosystem and human inhabitants in adapting to such pronounced dry and wet seasons.
In Kidal, Mali, sunshine duration exhibits a significant seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter into summer. Starting in January with 245 hours of sunlight, the month gradually sees a rise as February records 277 hours. The trend continues throughout the spring months, peaking in May with an impressive 340 hours of bright sunshine. This surge in sunlight reflects the transition towards the hotter months, where the clear skies facilitate longer daylight, supporting both natural ecosystems and human activities in the region.
As summer progresses, sunshine hours remain remarkably stable, with June, July, and August receiving between 326 and 333 hours of sunlight. Even as temperatures soar during these months, the abundance of sunshine persists, making it the most radiant period of the year. In contrast, the autumn months show a slight decline, with October and November witnessing around 311 and 295 hours, respectively. Despite this decrease, the overall pattern of Kidal's sunshine duration emphasizes a robust seasonal cycle, with ample sunlight fostering a vibrant environment during the warmer months and preparing the landscape for the drier, less illuminated winter ahead.
The UV Index in Kidal, Mali, displays a notable pattern that underscores the region's intense sunlight and the associated health risks throughout the year. Starting in January with a UV Index of 8 and categorized as "very high," the index climbs sharply in February to 10, indicating increased potential for skin damage from unprotected sun exposure. This upward trajectory continues into spring, peaking at 13 in April, which falls under the "extreme" exposure category, necessitating caution as the burn time shortens to just 10 minutes. The extreme levels of UV radiation during these months demand that residents and visitors employ strong sun protection measures.
As Kidal transitions into the summer months, the UV Index fluctuates slightly, sitting consistently at 11 to 12 from June to August, and maintaining an extreme exposure classification. The burn time across these months remains critical at just 10 minutes, further highlighting the need for vigilant sun safety practices. As the year closes, the UV Index gradually recedes, with values returning to 9 in November and 8 in December, yet the potential for harmful exposure remains persistent. This data emphasizes Kidal's intense solar conditions and serves as a reminder of the essential precautions for sun protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In Kidal, Mali, daylight duration reflects a seasonal rhythm that mirrors the region's climatic patterns. During the early months of the year, January and February each enjoy around 11 hours of daylight, providing ample light for daily activities. As spring approaches, daylight increases slightly to 12 hours in March and April. This gradual increase continues until May, when daylight peaks at 13 hours. The extended hours of sunlight during these months not only enhance the quality of life but also support agricultural practices in the region.
The summer months maintain a consistent 13 hours of daylight through June and July, creating a vibrant and active environment. However, this duration begins to taper off in August as daylight decreases back to 12 hours, before returning to 11 hours in October and November. By December, daylight further diminishes to 10 hours, marking the transition into winter. This cyclical pattern of daylight hours in Kidal highlights the significant role sunlight plays in the area's ecosystem and lifestyle, with longer days fostering productivity and shorter days signaling a time for rest and adaptation.
Abeibara, Mali experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with maximum averages reaching up to 46°C (115°F) in the peak months of May and June. The temperature ranges from a chilly minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January to blistering highs, especially in April and May. Precipitation is minimal, with only slight rainfall occurring from May to August, totaling just 29 mm (1.1 in) annually. Despite little rainfall, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 339 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Abeibara climate.
Kidal, Mali, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with peak averages reaching 36°C (97°F) in April and May. The coolest months are January and December, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is minimal, averaging less than 10 mm per month, with most rainfall occurring between July and August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May boasting the highest at 339 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kidal climate.
Tessalit, Mali experiences a hot desert climate with extreme temperature variations throughout the year. January sees minimum temperatures around 6°C (42°F) and averages rising to 19°C (67°F), while May peaks with highs of 47°C (116°F). Precipitation is minimal, with the wettest month being August at only 17 mm (0.7 in), and the remainder of the year receiving little to no rain. Additionally, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in May with 340 hours, making it a bright, arid environment. For more details, visit Tessalit climate.
The climate in Ti-n-Essako, Mali, is characterized by high temperatures and minimal precipitation throughout the year. January temperatures range from a cool 7°C (44°F) to a warm 34°C (94°F), reaching peak highs of up to 45°C (113°F) in May and June. Rainfall is scarce, mostly occurring in August, with the year seeing total precipitation hardly surpassing 20 mm (0.8 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May being the sunniest month, offering around 340 hours. For more details, visit Ti-n-Essako climate.
In summary, Kidal, Mali, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by extreme temperatures, minimal precipitation, and significant sunshine duration throughout the year. The pronounced seasonal variations in temperature and daylight affect not only the local environment but also the livelihoods of the people residing in this region. With an emphasis on extreme UV index levels during the peak summer months, the necessity for sun protection becomes critical. As daylight fluctuates throughout the year, the community must adapt to the associated challenges and opportunities presented by this distinctive climate. Ultimately, Kidal's diverse and harsh climate underscores the resilience of its inhabitants and the importance of understanding local environmental patterns for sustainable living.