Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Northeastern Governorate of Oman is characterized by a BWh (arid) classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. This region experiences a dramatic temperature range, with minimums dipping to 7°C (45°F) in January and soaring to a scorching 50°C (122°F) in May. The annual average temperature sits comfortably at 29°C (84°F), illustrating not only the intensity of heat typical for its climatic zone but also the stark differences in seasonal temperature that shape the environmental conditions and ecosystems within this unique region.
The Northeastern Governorate of Oman exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns, with a notable increase as the year progresses. January and February present relatively mild conditions, featuring minimum temperatures around 7-8°C (45-47°F) and average highs not exceeding 35°C (95°F). Transitioning into spring, temperatures rise sharply in March through April, with March experiencing a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and maximums reaching 42°C (108°F) by April. The peak of summer is witnessed in May and June, where sweltering temperatures soar to extreme levels, with May hitting a maximum of 50°C (122°F) and remaining elevated through June at 49°C (120°F). This intense heat begins to slightly taper in the late summer months of July and August, yet still maintains high averages around 33-34°C (91-93°F). As autumn approaches, particularly in October and November, temperatures drop again, offering some relief with minimums returning to 12°C (53°F) in November and maximums descending to 37°C (98°F). The climatic cycle closes with December, rounding out the year with cooler temperatures, yet still showcasing warm averages around 22°C (71°F).
In the northeastern region of Oman, Al Qabil, Ibra', and Badiyah experience notable temperature ranges throughout the year. All three locations see a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) in January, while their maximum temperatures peak significantly in May, with Al Qabil and Badiyah reaching 50°C (122°F) and Ibra' slightly lower at 48°C (119°F). For detailed monthly temperature insights, visit monthly temperatures in Al Qabil, monthly temperatures in Ibra', and monthly temperatures in Badiyah.
Precipitation in the Northeastern Governorate of Oman presents a predominantly dry character, with minimal rainfall recorded throughout the year. January through February sees only slight precipitation, with January receiving a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) and February slightly less at 2 mm (0.1 in). March marks a small increase in rainfall, accumulating 8 mm (0.3 in), followed closely by April with 7 mm (0.3 in). The dry summer months of June through September exhibit notably low rainfall, often recording negligible amounts — June and September effectively see no rainfall at all.
The months of July and August do experience brief precipitation, with July receiving 8 mm (0.3 in) before dropping again to just 2 mm (0.1 in) in August. As autumn sets in, October, November, and December maintain a sparse pattern with 4 mm (0.2 in), 2 mm (0.1 in), and 3 mm (0.1 in) respectively. Although rain occurs sporadically, most months yield little to no rainy days, reflecting the region's arid climate and the challenges it poses to local ecosystems and water resources.
The sunshine duration in the Northeastern Governorate of Oman reveals a compelling seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from winter into summer. Beginning the year in January with 255 hours of sunshine, the region transitions through February and March, where sunshine hours rise to 295 and 339 respectively. The peak of sunshine occurs in May, highlighted by an impressive 369 hours of bright skies, making it the sunniest month of the year. June follows closely behind with 364 hours, ensuring that early summer continues to bask in sunlight. This abundance of sunshine plays a pivotal role in the region’s arid climate, enhancing the heat and contributing to the stark desert landscape.
As the year progresses into the later summer months, the sunshine hours gradually decline, with July and August featuring 359 and 344 hours respectively, illustrating the beginning of a slight retreat in sunlight. By autumn, there is a continued but gradual decrease, with October and November receiving 335 and 310 hours of sunshine. The year concludes in December with 313 hours, indicating a return to less sunlight compared to the summer months but still retaining a significant amount. This trend of diminishing sunlight towards the year's end reflects not only the climatic changes but also provides insights into the region’s agricultural and ecological dynamics as seasons shift.
The UV Index in the Northeastern Governorate of Oman presents a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's intense sunlight exposure. Beginning in January with a UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, the burn time for unprotected skin is a brief 15 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, February sees an increase to a 9, before experiencing a significant surge in March with an extreme rating of 11. This extreme exposure continues into April and May, where the UV Index peaks at 13. The required burn time diminishes to 10 minutes during these months, emphasizing the urgency for sun protection during the peak sunlight hours.
The summer months maintain high UV Index levels, with June, July, and August recording values of 12 and 13, still categorized under extreme exposure. The burn time remains constant at 10 minutes, underscoring the potentially dangerous sun conditions for residents and visitors alike. As autumn approaches, the Index begins to decline, with October dropping to 10 and November returning to 8—both remaining in the very high category. By December, the UV Index decreases further to 7, categorized as high, with a more lenient burn time of 25 minutes. This seasonal variation highlights the importance of adopting sun safety measures, particularly during the harsh summer months when the risk of skin damage is highest.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in the Northeastern Governorate of Oman exhibits a notable variation throughout the year, reflecting the region's transition through the seasons. At the start of the year, January offers approximately 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February. This upward trend continues into March and April, where daylight reaches 12 hours, signifying the arrival of spring and longer, sunnier days. By May and June, the duration peaks at 13 hours, representing the height of summer when the sun reigns for extended periods, allowing for more daylight activities.
However, as summer wanes, the pattern begins to shift. July maintains the 13 hours of daylight, but August sees a slight reduction back to 12 hours. This diminishing daylight continues into September and October, where hours decrease to 12 and then to 11, respectively. Moving into the final months of the year, November retains 11 hours before descending back to 10 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only marks seasonal changes but also impacts local lifestyles, agriculture, and ecological rhythms throughout the year.
Al Qabil, Oman experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extremely high temperatures, especially in the summer months. Average temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) in January to 34°C (93°F) in May, with peak maxima reaching 50°C (122°F) in that same month. Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, with January and February recording just 2 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall, while June often sees as little as 1 mm (0.0 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 369 hours in May. For more detailed information, visit Al Qabil climate.
Badiyah, Oman experiences a hot desert climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January temperatures range from a cool 7°C (45°F) to a warm 33°C (91°F), while peak summer months like May and June can soar to highs of 50°C (122°F) and 49°C (120°F), respectively. Precipitation is minimal, averaging between 1 mm to 6 mm per month, with June being particularly dry. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in May, boasting up to 369 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Badiyah climate.
Ibra', Oman experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high summer temperatures, reaching up to 48°C (119°F) in May and June. Winter months are milder, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in April. Rainfall is minimal, with the wettest month being March at 12 mm (0.5 in), and sunshine is abundant throughout the year, peaking at 367 hours in May. Visitors can expect mostly clear skies and plenty of sun, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy warm weather. For more details, visit Ibra' climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental patterns of the Northeastern Governorate of Oman illustrate the region's arid characteristics, marked by significant temperature fluctuations, minimal precipitation, intense sunlight, and varying daylight durations throughout the year. The stark contrast between the scorching summer months and milder winter temperatures, coupled with the substantial UV Index levels, underscores the necessity for effective sun protection measures in this region. Furthermore, the predictable variations in daylight duration highlight the unique seasonal cycles that influence local ecosystems and human activities. Together, these factors contribute to the distinct climate profile of the Northeastern Governorate, essential for understanding its ecological dynamics, agricultural practices, and the health and well-being of its inhabitants.