Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Souss-Massa, Morocco, is characterized by its diverse Köppen-Geiger classifications, including BSk (Cold semi-arid), BWh (Hot arid), and BSh (Hot semi-arid). This region experiences a significant temperature range, with a minimum recorded at -3°C (27°F) in February and soaring to a maximum of 49°C (121°F) in July. On average, temperatures hover around 20°C (67°F), highlighting the area's distinctive seasonal contrasts and the influence of its semi-arid to arid climate on local ecosystems and human activities.
In Souss-Massa, Morocco, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends marked by notable fluctuations throughout the year. The winter months of January and February are characterized by relatively low temperatures, with minimums dropping to -3°C (27°F), gradually rising to average highs of 31°C (89°F) by February. As spring unfolds, March and April see a steady increase in warmth, with averages reaching 18°C (64°F) and maximums peaking at 38°C (101°F). The transition into summer brings further warmth, with July and August showcasing some of the highest temperatures, averaging 27°C (81°F) and 49°C (121°F) at their peaks. This intense heat begins to wane in September, leading to milder conditions as temperatures fall to average highs of 24°C (76°F). The year concludes with cooler autumn temperatures, where December cools to an average of 14°C (57°F), illustrating the region's pronounced seasonal contrast between harsh summers and mild winters.
Taroudant experiences a temperature range with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) in January and a scorching maximum of 48°C (119°F) in August, making it one of the hottest spots in Morocco; for more details, visit monthly temperatures in Taroudant. In contrast, Taghazout enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) in February and a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in August, which you can explore further at monthly temperatures in Taghazout. Meanwhile, Agadir sees a minimum of 6°C (43°F) in January and peaks at 47°C (117°F) in July; additional information is available at monthly temperatures in Agadir.
Precipitation in Souss-Massa, Morocco, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with most rainfall concentrated in the cooler months of winter and early spring. January begins the year with 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, which gradually increases to 35 mm (1.4 in) in February, before tapering off to 29 mm (1.2 in) in March. These months experience the highest number of rainy days, with February seeing precipitation on an average of 3 days, contributing to the region's vital water resources. As temperatures rise into late spring and summer, rainfall sharply diminishes, particularly in June and July, when negligible amounts of 3 mm (0.1 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in) are recorded, respectively.
The onset of fall brings a slight increase in precipitation, peaking at 24 mm (1.0 in) in November, as the region prepares for the winter months ahead. Despite this, the total rainfall remains relatively low throughout the year, averaging only a few millimeters monthly during the summer. Notably, the frequency of rainy days decreases significantly during this period, with June and July often seeing 0 days of recorded rainfall. This pattern reflects Souss-Massa's arid climate, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management strategies to support agriculture and local ecosystems in the face of these dry conditions.
In Souss-Massa, Morocco, sunshine duration showcases a distinct seasonal progression, with a noticeable increase as the year transitions from winter to summer. Starting with 245 hours of sunlight in January, the region experiences a gradual rise throughout the winter months, reaching 284 hours in February and 341 hours in March. By April, sunshine peaks at 360 hours, setting the stage for the sunniest months ahead. As spring progresses into early summer, May, June, and July record impressive totals of 381 hours, 391 hours, and 393 hours, respectively, marking July as the pinnacle of solar exposure.
As the summer heat begins to subside, sunlight hours remain substantial but slightly decline. August still provides 374 hours of sunshine, while September drops to 343 hours. The transition into autumn results in a further decrease, with October and November recording 328 hours and 296 hours of sunshine. While the year concludes with December showing a slight uptick to 299 hours, the overall trend highlights the region's capacity for abundant sunlight, particularly during the warmer months, contributing to Souss-Massa's arid climate and fostering optimal conditions for agriculture and outdoor activities.
The UV Index in Souss-Massa, Morocco, reflects significant seasonal variations, highlighting the importance of sun protection during specific periods of the year. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 5, exposure is classified as moderate, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As the year progresses into February, the index rises to 7, indicating high exposure risk, with the burn time decreasing to 25 minutes. March sees a substantial spike, reaching a UV Index of 10 and transitioning into the realm of very high exposure, necessitating protective measures as burn time plummets to just 15 minutes.
The peak UV levels are observed from April to June, where the index consistently ranks between 11 and 13, classified as extreme, with a burn time limited to just 10 minutes. Even during the summer months of July and August, the UV Index remains high at 12. As autumn approaches, the index begins to decline, reaching 9 in October and reverting to moderate levels of 5 by December. This yearly trend underscores the critical need for sun safety practices, especially during the intense summer months when the risk of harmful UV radiation is at its absolute peak.
UV Risk Categories
In Souss-Massa, Morocco, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern that aligns closely with the changing seasons. The year begins in January with approximately 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases as spring approaches. By February, daylight extends to 11 hours, maintaining this same duration through March. This upward trend continues into April, where the region enjoys 12 hours of daylight, culminating in 13 hours in May, just prior to the longest days of the year.
The summer solstice brings peak daylight in June, reaching about 14 hours, allowing ample time for outdoor activities under the sun. However, as summer transitions to autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off, with July and August both experiencing around 13 hours. September sees a decline to 12 hours, followed by 11 hours in October. This descent continues into the winter months, where daylight returns to 10 hours in both November and December. This rhythmic cycle of daylight is integral to the region's climate, influencing daily life, agricultural practices, and the overall lifestyle of its inhabitants.
Agadir, Morocco, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from 6°C to 29°C, gradually rising to peak summer highs of 47°C in July and August. Rainfall is minimal from June to August, with the wettest months being January and February, each receiving around 41 mm. Sunlight is abundant, with over 390 hours of sunshine in July and June, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Agadir climate.
Aourir, Morocco, experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) in February to a maximum of 40°C (105°F) in August, with average monthly temperatures peaking around August and cooling down in the winter months. Precipitation is low, particularly in the summer, with January and February seeing the most rainfall at 37 mm (1.5 in) and 38 mm (1.5 in), respectively. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, averaging over 300 hours monthly from April to July, making it an attractive destination for sun-seekers. For more details, visit Aourir climate.
Argana, Morocco, experiences a diverse climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January's temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), gradually rising to peak summer highs of 40°C (105°F) in July and August. Precipitation is minimal during the summer months, with July receiving just 1 mm, while January and February are the wettest months, averaging 37 mm and 45 mm, respectively. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer, with July boasting about 398 hours of sunlight. For further details, visit Argana climate.
Tafraout, Morocco experiences a varied climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -2°C (29°F) to 22°C (72°F), while July sees highs of 39°C (102°F). The region receives minimal rainfall, with an annual average of about 15-26 mm in winter months and even less in summer. With plenty of sunshine, particularly from May to July, which boasts nearly 389 hours, Tafraout offers a warm and inviting atmosphere year-round. For more detailed information, visit Tafraout climate.
Taghazout, Morocco enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 16°C (60°F) in January to a peak of 24°C (76°F) in August, with maximum summer temperatures occasionally reaching 40°C (105°F). Rainfall is sparse, particularly in the summer months, with most precipitation occurring from January to November, peaking at 38 mm (1.5 in) in February. The region boasts abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, where July records approximately 396 hours of sunshine. For more information, visit the Taghazout climate.
Taliouine, Morocco, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are mild, with January temperatures ranging from -1°C to 24°C and an average of 10°C, while precipitation peaks around February and March. Summer months, particularly June to August, see higher temperatures, reaching up to 41°C in July, with minimal rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with peak hours in May and June, averaging nearly 390 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Taliouine climate.
Taroudant, Morocco, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees minimum temperatures around 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F), while the peak summer months of July and August can soar to 48°C (119°F). Precipitation is limited, with the wettest months being January and February, averaging 26 mm and 31 mm, respectively. With abundant sunshine, especially in summer, Taroudant enjoys up to 396 hours of sunlight in July. For more detailed information, visit Taroudant climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental patterns of Souss-Massa, Morocco, reveal a region characterized by significant seasonal variations that profoundly influence daily life and ecological systems. With its distinct temperature ranges, limited precipitation, abundant sunshine, and fluctuating UV Index, this area exemplifies the challenges and opportunities presented by an arid climate. The pronounced patterns in daylight duration further underscore the importance of seasonal changes, providing insight into agricultural practices and outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for effective resource management, sustainable development, and enhancing the quality of life for the communities in Souss-Massa.