Last updated: January 18, 2025
Hodh El Gharbi, located in Mauritania, exhibits a BWh climate classification, indicative of its hot semi-arid conditions. The region experiences a notable temperature range, with January marking the minimum at 9°C (49°F), and June soaring to an impressive maximum of 46°C (115°F). Despite these extremes, the average temperature remains at a balmy 31°C (87°F), underscoring the region's characteristic heat and aridity throughout the year.
In Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression characterized by rising heat as the year advances. January begins with cooler temperatures, featuring a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a mild average of 22°C (72°F). As February and March roll in, a gradual increase occurs, with averages climbing to 26°C (78°F) and 29°C (84°F) respectively, and March peaking at 43°C (109°F). The intensifying warmth is particularly evident in April and May, where the average temperature peaks at 33°C (91°F) and reaches a staggering 46°C (114°F) at its maximum. The heat remains relentless through June and July, with consistent maximums of 46°C (115°F), before starting to taper off in August and September, where averages settle around 32°C (90°F) and 33°C (91°F). By October and November, temperatures begin their decline, though still offering warm averages, before closing the year with December’s cooler minimums around 11°C (53°F), marking a return to relative chill. Overall, Hodh El Gharbi's climate is typified by a harsh dry heat that shapes the region's distinct seasonal rhythms.
Aioun experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January seeing a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and June reaching a scorching maximum of 46°C (115°F). For more detailed information on the monthly temperatures in Aioun, visit monthly temperatures in Aioun.
Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, experiences exceptionally low levels of precipitation, particularly in the initial months of the year, where January, February, and March record no rainfall whatsoever. This arid condition persists through April, with a meager 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation. As the year progresses, precipitation begins to increase marginally, with May receiving 2 mm (0.1 in) and June observing 6 mm (0.2 in) across just one rainy day, setting the stage for the region's primary wet season.
The most significant rainfall occurs between July and September, with August standing out as the wettest month, delivering 59 mm (2.3 in) and averaging 8 rainy days. Following this peak, precipitation sharply declines again in October to 4 mm (0.2 in), with little to no precipitation recorded in November and December. Overall, the climate in Hodh El Gharbi is characterized by a brief yet intense rainy season amidst prolonged dry spells, underscoring the region's semi-arid nature.
In Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, sunshine duration exhibits a remarkable increase as the year progresses, transforming from winter's relatively limited daylight to a summer of abundant sunshine. Starting with 249 hours in January, the region experiences a steady rise in hours of sunlight, reaching 286 hours by February. This upward trend accelerates, with March and April recording 335 and 337 hours respectively, highlighting the transition from the cooler months to a more sun-drenched environment. May marks the peak before summer, showcasing 350 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the blazing days ahead.
As the summer unfolds, sunshine hours remain impressively high, with July and August recording 346 and 336 hours respectively. However, a slight decrease occurs in September, with 320 hours, signaling the onset of the autumn months. While October and November see a gradual decline in sunshine duration to 315 and 298 hours, December maintains a respectable 303 hours. Overall, the data illustrates a clear seasonal pattern in Hodh El Gharbi, where the sun dominates the sky through the hotter months, culminating in a vibrant and sunlit summer that effectively characterizes the region's climate.
The UV Index in Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, exhibits notable seasonal variations that underscore the intensity of sunlight exposure in this region. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, the potential for skin damage from sun exposure is significant, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress, February sees the UV Index rise to 10, maintaining a very high exposure category. The transition to spring brings even greater intensity, with March reaching 12 and April peaking at 14, both classified as extreme, where unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes.
The extreme UV conditions persist throughout the summer months, with May, June, July, and August all registering an Index of 12 to 14, offering little respite from the harsh sun. Even as autumn approaches, the UV Index remains high, with September at 13 and October dropping slightly to 11. By November, the Index returns to 10, indicating very high exposure once more, before it concludes the year in December at 8, still categorized as very high. This consistent high UV Index underscores the importance of sun protection measures for residents and visitors alike, particularly during the summer and peak months.
UV Risk Categories
In Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, daylight duration presents a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minimal variation. January and February see consistent daylight of 11 hours, providing ample time for daily activities under the sun. March ushers in slightly longer days, with 12 hours of daylight, a trend that continues through April and May. These early spring months enjoy the same 12-hour daylight length, effectively preparing the region for the longer days to come.
As summer approaches in June, daylight duration peaks at 13 hours, offering residents extended opportunities for outdoor pursuits. However, this peak is short-lived, as July and August revert back to 12 hours of daylight. The duration inches down again in September and stabilizes at 12 hours before descending to 11 hours in October, November, and December. Overall, Hodh El Gharbi maintains a dependable rhythm of daylight hours, with subtle shifts that mark the transitions between the seasons while ensuring that sunlight remains a prominent feature of daily life.
Aioun, Mauritania experiences a predominantly hot desert climate, with temperatures reaching their peak during the summer months of May through August, where highs can be as much as 46°C (115°F). The winter months are milder, with January temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, with the most significant rainfall occurring in August, averaging 59 mm (2.3 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from March to May, where hours can exceed 350 per month. For more details, visit Aioun climate.
In conclusion, Hodh El Gharbi, Mauritania, showcases a distinct climatic profile defined by high temperatures, prolonged sunshine, and significant UV exposure, underscoring its semi-arid nature. The region's precipitation patterns reveal a limited rainy season, with most rainfall concentrated between July and September, while daylight duration remains relatively stable throughout the year. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate daily life in a region where sun protection and awareness of environmental conditions are vital. This knowledge can help mitigate health risks associated with intense UV radiation and optimize the benefits of the abundant sunlight that defines Hodh El Gharbi’s climate.