Last updated: April 14, 2025
Mauritania's climate is characterized by a stark contrast between extreme temperatures and varied precipitation patterns. January sees temperature lows of around 5°C (41°F) in Adrar, while June can reach scorching highs of 47°C (118°F) in Assaba. Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with dry conditions yielding 0 mm (0.0 in) in January in Gorgol and a peak of 114 mm (4.5 in) in August in Guidimaka. Humidity levels also fluctuate dramatically, with an average low of just 8% in April in Hodh El Gharbi and soaring to 85% in September in Guidimaka. This dynamic climate presents a unique environment, shaped by its arid conditions and seasonal variations.
Mauritania's climate is predominantly characterized by the BWh (hot desert) category, making it an arid region with minimal rainfall and high temperatures. This classification encompasses vast areas including Adrar, Assaba, Brakna, Dakhlet Nouadhibou, Gorgol, Hodh Ech Chargi, Hodh El Gharbi, Inchiri, Nouakchott Nord, Nouakchott Ouest, Nouakchott Sud, Tagant, Tiris Zemmour, and Trarza. The only deviation is found in Guidimaka, which falls under the BSh (semi-arid) climate, offering slightly more precipitation. The stark landscapes of these zones shape not only the environment but also the culture and lifestyle of the people who inhabit them.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Mauritania's temperature fluctuates dramatically throughout the year, highlighting the stark contrast between its cooler and scorching months. January begins the year with chilly nights dipping to around 5°C (41°F) in Adrar, while daytime temperatures soar to a sweltering 40°C (104°F) in Guidimaka. As the spring months approach, temperatures surge rapidly; by April, maximums reach an intense 46°C (115°F), pushing well into the extremes in May and June, where the mercury can hit a blistering 47°C (117°F) in Brakna and Assaba. The heat persists through the summer; even in August, nighttime lows remain relatively mild at 18°C (65°F) in Dakhlet Nouadhibou. As autumn sets in, temperatures gradually cool, with October and November seeing milder averages, before returning to the brisk temperatures of December with lows around 7°C (45°F) in Adrar once again. This cyclic pattern illustrates the striking temperature diversity that characterizes Mauritania's climate.
Mauritania's precipitation patterns reveal a striking contrast between its dry and wet months. January stands out as the driest, with regions like Gorgol experiencing virtually no rainfall at 0 mm, while the peak wetness occurs in August, with Guidimaka receiving a generous 114 mm. This month also sees the highest number of rainy days, with up to 11 days of precipitation in Guidimaka, highlighting the short but intense rainy season. Interestingly, the capital region of Nouakchott Ouest experiences a complete absence of rain in June, emphasizing the stark seasonal variability that characterizes Mauritania's climate. Overall, these trends illustrate the region's dependence on the summer rains for agricultural productivity and water resources.
Mauritania experiences a dramatic shift in humidity levels throughout the year, displaying a significant range from a dry 8% in April at Hodh El Gharbi to a high of 85% in September in Guidimaka. This stark contrast highlights the country’s transition from arid to humid conditions, particularly in the late summer months. As the monsoon season approaches, the surge in humidity can be quite pronounced, impacting not only the climate but also the daily lives and agricultural practices of its inhabitants. The variation in humidity underscores the diverse climatic zones within Mauritania, shaping its unique environmental landscape.
In April, Mauritania experiences significant peaks in UV Index values, highlighting the region's intensifying sun exposure. For instance, Dakhlet Nouadhibou records an average daily maximum UV Index of 13, while Tagant reaches slightly higher at 14. These figures not only underline the importance of sun protection during this month but also suggest a consistent trend of elevated UV radiation across various regions in Mauritania, urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant against the risks posed by increased UV levels. As climate patterns evolve, staying informed about these trends becomes crucial for safeguarding health in this sun-drenched landscape.
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Mauritania basks in abundant sunshine, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of hours throughout the year. In January, cities like Inchiri and Hodh Ech Chargi experience 242 and 251 hours of glorious sunlight, respectively, providing a promising start to the year. As temperatures rise in May, this sun-soaked trend intensifies dramatically, with Guidimaka enjoying a remarkable 346 hours, while Tiris Zemmour reaches an impressive 375 hours. This significant seasonal shift highlights the country's potential for outdoor activities and solar energy utilization, making it a true sun-worshipper's paradise.
In Mauritania, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly between regions and seasons. For instance, in November, Nouakchott Ouest experiences a more moderate 33% chance of sunshine, reflecting the transitional nature of the climate as it heads into the cooler months. In contrast, July in Inchiri boasts an impressive 92% likelihood of bright, sunny days, showcasing the scorching and dry conditions typical of the summer season. This stark contrast highlights the regional variations in Mauritania's weather patterns, offering both visitors and locals a glimpse into the country's diverse climatic landscape.
In Mauritania, the variations in daylight hours throughout the year offer a fascinating glimpse into the changing seasons. In December, Tiris Zemmour experiences around 10 hours of daylight, providing a shorter window for outdoor activities and exploration. As summer rolls in, June sees this number increase significantly to 13 hours, allowing for a more vibrant and active lifestyle under the sun. This trend highlights the shift from the cooler, shorter days of winter to the longer, warmer days of summer, making each season uniquely inviting for different types of adventures in this diverse region.
The climate in Adrar, Mauritania is characterized by scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it a region of extremes. From May to September, locals experience sweltering averages peaking at 35-47°C (95-117°F), while the coolest months from December to February offer a mild reprieve with averages around 18-21°C (65-70°F). Humidity remains relatively low, usually hovering between 13% to 32%, contributing to the arid conditions. Despite some sporadic rainfall, especially in August and September, it amounts to little, often barely 10 mm (0.4 in) for the month. For a deeper understanding of the region's weather patterns, explore the detailed Adrar climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Assaba experiences a strikingly hot climate, with temperatures soaring to a blistering 47°C (117°F) in May and June. The cooler months of January and February still boast warm averages around 24°C (76°F) and 27°C (81°F), offering a brief respite from the heat. Rainfall is sparse, primarily falling between June and September, peaking in August with 46 mm (1.8 in), while the rest of the year remains virtually dry. Humidity fluctuates with the seasons, peaking in the late summer months, creating a unique, albeit stifling, atmosphere. To explore more about the seasonal weather patterns, check out the detailed Assaba climate.
Brakna, Mauritania, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and low humidity throughout most of the year. From January to April, the mercury rises steadily, peaking at an intense 47°C (117°F) in May, with little to no rainfall. The summer months of June and July bring a slight increase in humidity, while August and September introduce the region's wettest months, with 41 mm (1.6 in) and 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain respectively. As the temperatures begin to cool in November, the humidity drops significantly, offering a brief reprieve before the cycle begins anew. Discover more about the unique weather patterns of this region at Brakna climate.
Dakhlet Nouadhibou, Mauritania, basks in a ** Mediterranean-like climate**, where temperatures are pleasantly mild throughout the year. From January to March, the days are warm with averages around 19°C (66°F), gradually rising to 34°C (94°F) in the peak of summer during June to September. While the region remains mostly dry, a handful of rain showers occur between February and November, with September seeing the highest precipitation at 7 mm (0.3 in). Humidity levels also climb during the summer months, reaching up to 58% in August but remain relatively comfortable throughout the rest of the year. Overall, Dakhlet Nouadhibou offers a charming and inviting climate ideal for exploration; learn more about the Dakhlet Nouadhibou climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Gorgol experiences a striking desert climate marked by scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall. From January to May, temperatures soar, peaking in May and June at an impressive 46°C (115°F). While the summer months bring a welcome increase in humidity and the most rainfall, peaking in August with 75 mm, the dry season returns swiftly in fall. This dramatic fluctuation creates a unique environment that is both challenging and captivating. For more information on this fascinating region, visit Gorgol climate.
Guidimaka, Mauritania, experiences a sweltering desert climate, characterized by scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall. From January to March, daytime highs soar above 40°C (104°F), while cooling to around 15°C (59°F) at night—offering a brief respite from the heat. As the summer months approach, peak temperatures can reach a blistering 47°C (117°F) in June, accompanied by rising humidity levels, especially during the rainy season from July to September. This period ushers in significant rainfall, peaking in August with around 114 mm (4.5 in), transforming the arid landscape briefly. For more details on the unique climate patterns of this region, visit Guidimaka climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Hodh Ech Chargi experiences a harsh desert climate, characterized by sweltering summers and mild winters. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise from a refreshing 10°C (50°F) to an intense 42°C (109°F) by March, marking the onset of the relentless heat. April through August sees peak temperatures soaring to 46°C (115°F), complemented by an increase in humidity, particularly in August, when it reaches around 68%. The region receives minimal rainfall, primarily in the summer months, peaking in August with 71 mm (2.8 in), making this period both the hottest and the wettest. For detailed insights, explore the Hodh Ech Chargi climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Hodh El Gharbi experiences a harsh desert climate, characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. In the peak summer months of May to July, temperatures can soar to a staggering 46°C (115°F), while in the cooler winter months, they dip to pleasant lows of around 9°C (49°F) in January. Precipitation is minimal, peaking in August with about 59 mm of rainfall, but remaining scarce for most of the year, which leads to a challenging yet striking landscape. Humidity also varies significantly, ranging from a crisp 10% in March to a more humid 68% in August, adding to the region's unique character. For more detailed insights into this captivating climate, visit Hodh El Gharbi climate.
Inchiri, Mauritania, boasts a hot desert climate characterized by sweltering summers and mild winters. From May to August, temperatures soar, peaking at a staggering 47°C (117°F) in June, while humidity gradually rises, reaching its highest levels of 49% in August. The coldest months, January through March, offer a more temperate experience with averages around 22°C (71°F) to 26°C (79°F); however, rainfall remains scarce, with most months seeing less than 15 mm of precipitation. This unique weather pattern creates an arid environment that, despite its extremities, showcases the resilience of life in the desert. For a more detailed overview, check out the Inchiri climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Nouakchott Nord experiences a predominantly dry, hot climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. With January's mild averages hovering around 22°C (71°F), the mercury climbs sharply by May, peaking at an astonishing 43°C (110°F) just before the summer months. While rainfall remains scarce, especially during the winter and early spring, humidity begins to creep up in June, reaching its zenith in August with 77%. This unique climate, marked by high temperatures and minimal precipitation, creates an intriguing landscape that captivates both locals and visitors. For a more detailed insight, explore the Nouakchott Nord climate.
Nestled along the coast, Nouakchott Ouest experiences a hot desert climate characterized by intense heat and minimal rainfall. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise, with January starting at a pleasant 22°C (71°F) and reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in March. The summer months of May through August are particularly sweltering, with highs consistently soaring above 40°C (104°F) and humidity climbing to a sticky 77% in August. Rainfall is scarce, with most months recording little to no precipitation, making the region a sun-drenched haven for those who thrive in dry heat. For a deeper dive into the climate in Nouakchott Ouest, check out Nouakchott Ouest climate.
The climate in Nouakchott Sud, Mauritania is characterized by warm temperatures and low precipitation, making it a predominantly arid environment. From January to April, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May with highs reaching up to 43°C (110°F). The humidity levels increase significantly from June to August, coinciding with the brief rainy season, where precipitation rarely surpasses 5 mm. Despite the warmth, the cooler months from November to February offer a comfortable respite, featuring pleasant evenings with averages around 22°C (73°F). For more details on the local weather patterns, visit the Nouakchott Sud climate.
Nestled in the heart of Mauritania, Tagant boasts a hot desert climate characterized by significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. With January's cool nights dipping to 9°C (48°F) and daytime highs soaring to 35°C (95°F), the early months gradually warm to peak summer temperatures, reaching a sweltering 45°C (113°F) in June and July. Humidity levels remain low, particularly in the dry months, averaging around 10-19%, while slight increases in precipitation during the late summer offer a refreshing contrast. Rain is scarce, with most months receiving less than 20 mm, making Tagant an arid yet enchanting destination. For more insights into the climatic conditions of Tagant, visit Tagant climate.
The climate in Tiris Zemmour, Mauritania is characterized by a stark contrast between scorching summer highs and milder winter temperatures. From June to August, daytime temperatures frequently soar above 45°C (113°F), while January offers a reprieve with averages around 17°C (62°F). Despite its warm climate, precipitation is scarce, with most months receiving little to no rainfall; even during the summer, showers are minimal. Humidity levels gradually rise throughout the year, peaking at around 32% in late summer, but remain relatively low overall. For a deeper dive into the region's weather patterns, explore Tiris Zemmour climate.
Trarza, Mauritania, boasts a hot and arid climate, epitomized by towering temperatures that soar as high as 46°C (115°F) in May. While the summer months of July and August bring a slight reprieve with increased humidity and occasional rain—averaging 44 mm and 49 mm respectively—the rest of the year remains largely parched, with little to no precipitation. Winter months from December to February offer a brief cooldown, where temperatures can dip to 13°C (56°F) at night, providing a stark contrast to the blistering summer days. With humidity peaking in the rainy season at an impressive 77%, Trarza’s climate presents a unique blend of extreme heat and seasonal wetness. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns and nuances of this fascinating region, explore Trarza climate.
Mauritania's climate is characterized by striking contrasts, as seen in its temperature fluctuations and varying precipitation patterns. The chilly winter months can plunge to a minimum of just 5°C (41°F) in January in Adrar, while summer scorches to extreme highs of 47°C (118°F) in June in Assaba. Rainfall showcases similar variability, with dry January days in Gorgol receiving no precipitation, contrasted by August deluges in Guidimaka reaching up to 114 mm (4.5 in). The humidity further compounds these fluctuations; while April in Hodh El Gharbi experiences a dry 8%, September in Guidimaka sees moisture levels soar to an overwhelming 85%. This intricate interplay of temperature and precipitation not only defines Mauritania's diverse ecosystems but also profoundly influences the daily lives of its inhabitants.