Last updated: January 18, 2025
Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, located in Morocco, exhibits a Köppen-Geiger climate classification of BWh, indicative of a hot desert climate. Temperature fluctuations define the region, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) recorded in January, rising to an impressive maximum of 49°C (120°F) in August. Throughout the year, the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 21°C (70°F), highlighting the extreme thermal variation characteristic of arid regions. This climate profile emphasizes the stark and distinct conditions that define Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra's environmental landscape.
The temperature patterns in Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, reflect pronounced seasonal trends characterized by warming throughout the year. January begins with cooler averages around 16°C (61°F), gradually increasing as spring approaches, with March temperatures reaching a peak average of 18°C (65°F) despite a notable jump in maximum temperatures to 37°C (99°F). The region transitions into summer, where temperatures soar, particularly in July and August, with average highs peaking at 47°C (116°F) and astonishing maximums of 49°C (120°F). As autumn arrives, temperatures remain elevated, with averages around 25°C (77°F) in September before gradually declining in the cooler months of October and November. This cyclical thermal progression underscores the stark contrasts experienced in this hot desert climate, defining Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra's distinctive environmental conditions.
Smara experiences a temperature range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 49°C (120°F) in August, showcasing its extreme climate fluctuations monthly temperatures in Smara. In contrast, Tarfaya has a milder temperature range, with minimums of 12°C (53°F) in February and maximums reaching 34°C (94°F) in October monthly temperatures in Tarfaya. Similarly, Akhfennir sees minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F) in February and peaks at 40°C (105°F) in August monthly temperatures in Akhfennir.
Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, experiences minimal precipitation throughout the year, with a notably dry climate. The monthly rainfall totals reflect low averages, with January recording merely 3 mm (0.1 in) and the wettest month, October, reaching only 10 mm (0.4 in). The region typically receives little to no rainfall for the majority of the year, often recording days with no precipitation at all. For instance, from June to September, rainfall is virtually nonexistent, with only 1 mm (0.1 in) noted in July and minimal values in other summer months, reinforcing the area’s aridity.
Despite this overall scarcity, September and October provide a slight respite, with 5 mm (0.2 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, respectively — primarily attributed to occasional weather patterns. However, this transient increase in precipitation does not significantly alter the overarching trend of drought conditions throughout the year. The limited rainfall underscores the region's classification as a hot desert climate, profoundly influencing its ecosystem and agricultural practices, where water conservation becomes essential for sustenance.
Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, enjoys a remarkable amount of sunshine throughout the year, with a pronounced seasonal trend seen across the months. Beginning in January with 243 hours of sunlight, there is a steady ascent in the hours of sunshine as winter transitions into spring. This period is defined by increases in sunlight hours, peaking in May at 371 hours, signaling the region’s transition into the abundantly sunny summer months. April and March also contribute significantly to this trend, showcasing the gradual buildup as the days grow longer and sunnier.
During the summer months of June, July, and August, Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra maintains an impressive average of around 364 to 372 hours of sunshine, making these months the sunniest of the year. However, as autumn approaches, there is a gradual decline in sunshine hours, with September recording 333 hours and October slightly lower at 322 hours. Despite this decrease, the region continues to enjoy a favorable amount of sunlight compared to many other locations, with November and December still providing 297 and 298 hours, respectively. This consistency of sunny days throughout the year not only contributes to the area's unique desert climate but also reinforces Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra's appeal for sunlight seekers and outdoor activities.
Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, showcases a notable range of UV Index values throughout the year, reflecting the region's abundant sunshine and high solar radiation. From January to December, the UV Index exhibits seasonal fluctuations, beginning with a high level of 6 in January, indicating a need for cautious sun exposure. As early as February, the UV Index rises to 8, categorizing it as "very high," with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The peak months of UV exposure occur from March to June, where the index reaches extreme levels of 11 to 13, emphasizing the urgency of sun safety measures during these periods.
The extreme UV readings in Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra are a critical consideration for residents and visitors alike, particularly in the summer months. With consistent indices of 12 or higher from March through June, the recommended burn time drops to just 10 minutes, underscoring the significant risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Although the UV Index does decrease in the autumn, remaining within the "very high" range of 8 to 10 in the latter months, the need for effective sun protection remains essential year-round. This data highlights the necessity of awareness and preparedness when enjoying the sunny climate of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra.
UV Risk Categories
In Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, daylight duration displays a clear seasonal pattern, transitioning from shorter days in winter to longer days as summer approaches. In January, the region experiences approximately 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February and achieving 12 hours in March. This upward trend continues into April, sustaining the 12-hour mark, before reaching a peak of 13 hours in May and extending throughout the summer months of June, July, and August. The consistency of 13 hours during these peak months emphasizes the abundant daylight available for outdoor activities and exploration.
As the year progresses into autumn, daylight hours begin to decrease once again, reflecting the natural cycle of seasons. September sees a slight decline to 12 hours, followed by a return to 11 hours in October. The reduction continues through November and December, where daylight once again settles at around 10 hours. This cyclical shift showcases the predictable nature of daylight variation in Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, offering both residents and visitors a clearer understanding of optimal times for sun-related activities throughout the year.
Akhfennir, Morocco, experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and scorching summers. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) in January to a peak of 40°C (105°F) in August, with averages consistently above 20°C (68°F) during the summer months. Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, with January seeing the highest at 5 mm, while summer months often record only 2-3 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from May to August, where it averages around 367 hours of sunlight per month. For detailed climate information, visit Akhfennir climate.
Gueltat Zemmour, Morocco, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and low precipitation throughout the year. January temperatures range from a low of 6°C (42°F) to a high of 28°C (83°F), while July and August reach maximums of 47°C (116°F). Despite the intense heat, the area enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 381 hours in May. Rainfall is minimal, with most months receiving less than 6 mm. For more detailed information, visit Gueltat Zemmour climate.
Smara, Morocco experiences a hot desert climate with extreme temperature variations throughout the year. January starts cool with average temperatures around 15°C (60°F), while the summer months of July and August see highs peaking at 46°C (116°F) and 49°C (120°F) respectively. Precipitation is minimal, averaging less than 15 mm across the year, with rain mainly occurring in the fall and winter months. Sunlight is abundant, particularly in spring and summer, with May and June seeing over 360 hours of sunshine. For more information, visit Smara climate.
Tarfaya, Morocco, exhibits a mild climate characterized by warm temperatures and low precipitation throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from 17°C (63°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in the summer months, peaking at 34°C (94°F) in October. Rainfall is minimal, with an annual total usually under 100 mm, making this region quite arid. Sunshine is abundant, reaching over 300 hours per month from March to August, ideal for outdoor activities. For more information, visit Tarfaya climate.
In conclusion, Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Morocco, presents a dynamic climatic profile characterized by its pronounced seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV index, and daylight duration. The region’s hot desert climate not only illuminates the contrast between scorching summers and mild winters but also underscores the importance of sun safety measures, particularly during the peak UV periods from March to June. With consistently abundant sunshine hours and a notable daylight duration that peaks in the summer, the area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic nuances aids both residents and visitors in making informed decisions while embracing the rich, sun-soaked environment of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra.