Last updated: January 18, 2025
Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, exhibits a hot semi-arid (BSh) climate characterized by minimal annual temperature variation. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 21°C (70°F) in February, while the average temperature hovers around 27°C (82°F). Temperatures peak significantly in March, reaching a maximum of 39°C (102°F). This climate profile underscores the challenges of adaptation and sustainability in a region where extreme heat can impact both the environment and local livelihoods.
In Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, temperature patterns demonstrate a distinct seasonal rhythm, characterized by consistently warm conditions throughout the year. The region begins the year with minimum temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and moderate highs reaching up to 38°C (100°F) in January and February. As March unfolds, temperatures rise, peaking at a maximum of 39°C (102°F), before gradually declining towards the middle of the year. From June to August, the temperatures stabilize, with averages dropping to around 26°C (79°F), while minimums remain steady at 22°C (71°F). As the year progresses into the late months, temperatures slightly increase again, with November and December featuring average highs around 37°C (99°F) and max temperatures still hovering above 35°C (95°F). This consistent warmth underscores the region's semi-arid climate, influencing both environmental conditions and local communities.
In Afgooye, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (71°F) in February to a maximum of 37°C (100°F) in March, highlighting its warm climate monthly temperatures in Afgooye. Conversely, Marka experiences a milder climate with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) in July and a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in May, making it relatively cooler during the warmer months monthly temperatures in Marka. Similarly, Qoryooley sees a minimum of 22°C (72°F) in February and peaks at 35°C (95°F) in March, showcasing temperatures that are also quite high monthly temperatures in Qoryooley.
Precipitation patterns in Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, reveal a distinct seasonal cycle, with the majority of rainfall occurring from April through November. The early months of the year, January and February, are characterized by minimal rainfall, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and 4 mm (0.2 in), respectively, indicating a prolonged dry period. As March approaches, precipitation begins to rise to 18 mm (0.7 in) over approximately three days, marking a transition into the wetter months. The peak of the rainy season occurs in May, with a substantial 94 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall distributed over 20 days, followed closely by November, which sees 95 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days.
In contrast, the summer months of June to August experience a moderate decline in precipitation, averaging around 30 mm (1.2 in) per month, while still maintaining a consistent pattern of rainfall days. Notably, October also contributes significant precipitation with 50 mm (2.0 in) recorded over 11 days. The year concludes in December with a drop to 15 mm (0.6 in), echoing the earlier dry period. Overall, the rainfall distribution underscores the critical reliance on these seasonal rains for agriculture and water resources in the semi-arid climate of Lower Shabeelle.
In Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, sunshine duration exhibits a remarkable seasonal trend, with hours peaking during the warmer months. The year begins with 286 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing throughout February and March, ultimately reaching a high of 350 hours in March. As the region transitions into the peak sunny months from April to August, sunshine hours remain robust, averaging around 338 to 350 hours. This period signifies the optimal conditions for agriculture and outdoor activities, as long stretches of sunlight are prevalent.
As the year progresses into the latter months, sunshine hours slightly decline yet remain favorable. Notably, October maintains 347 hours, while November dips to 329 hours. December witnesses a modest uptick to 349 hours, suggesting that the end of the year continues to provide ample sunlight despite the approach of the dry season. Overall, the sunshine patterns in Lower Shabeelle highlight significant opportunities for solar energy utilization and underscore the region's agricultural potential, driven largely by the abundance of sunlight during the warmer months.
In Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, the UV Index remains consistently high throughout the year, reflecting an extreme exposure category that poses significant risks for skin damage without protection. Beginning with a UV Index of 13 in January, the index swiftly escalates to 15 in both February and March, where it sustains its peak levels across April and May. This extreme UV Index is notable as it indicates a stringent burn time of just 10 minutes, highlighting the need for proactive sun protection measures during these months, especially for outdoor activities.
As the year transitions into the summer and autumn months, the UV Index remains robust but shows a slight decrease. By June and July, it dips to 12, maintaining the extreme classification, before returning to 13 in August, September, and October. The year concludes with a UV Index of 12 in November and 11 in December, still categorized as extreme. This persistent UV exposure in Lower Shabeelle underscores the importance of using protective clothing and sunscreen year-round, especially for individuals engaged in outdoor work or activities, to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, daylight duration shows a distinct yet narrow variability throughout the year, primarily ranging between 11 to 12 hours. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in January and then sees a gradual increase to 12 hours by February. This duration remains consistent at 12 hours from March through October, creating a stable period of light that benefits agricultural activities and daily life in the region.
As the year winds down, daylight duration once again slips to 11 hours in December. This regularity offers a predictable rhythm, which is significant for both farming schedules and the cultural practices of local communities. Overall, the steady daylight hours in Lower Shabeelle contribute positively to the region's environment, allowing residents to optimize their time outdoors during extended periods of light.
The climate in Afgooye, Somalia, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 26°C (79°F) in July and August to 36°C (97°F) in January and December. The wet season peaks in April and November, with precipitation measuring 90 mm (3.5 in) and 108 mm (4.2 in), respectively. The sun shines brightly throughout the year, with the highest sunshine recorded in March at 350 hours. This combination of heat and periodic rainfall contributes to a distinct dry and wet season dynamic in the region. For more information, visit Afgooye climate.
Marka, Somalia experiences a warm desert climate with average temperatures ranging from 26°C (80°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) from March to May. The hottest months are typically April and May, where maximum temperatures can reach 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is concentrated from April to June, peaking in May with 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation. Though the region has a high amount of sunshine, receiving over 285 hours monthly, it experiences relatively low annual rainfall overall. For more details, visit Marka climate.
Qoryooley, Somalia experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by high temperatures throughout the year. Monthly average temperatures range from 26°C (79°F) to 29°C (84°F), with maximums occasionally reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in warmer months. Precipitation is minimal in the early months, with significant rainfall occurring from April to November; May is the wettest month, receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) of rain. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with February recording the highest at 319 hours. For more details, visit Qoryooley climate.
The climate in Wanlaweyn, Somalia, is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year, with January average temperatures around 28°C (83°F) and peaks in March reaching up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is low in the earlier months but increases significantly during April and November, with November receiving the highest rainfall at 101 mm (4.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from February to April with over 300 hours of sunlight each month. Overall, Wanlaweyn experiences a hot and relatively dry climate, punctuated by a rainy season. For more details, visit Wanlaweyn climate.
In conclusion, the climatic and environmental characteristics of Lower Shabeelle, Somalia, present a unique blend of extreme temperatures, consistent sunshine, high UV exposure, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. The region's semi-arid climate, defined by warm temperatures and a pronounced wet season, shapes the socio-economic dynamics, particularly concerning agriculture and water resource management. With high UV indices reflecting significant sun exposure year-round, it is crucial for residents to adopt protective measures to mitigate health risks. Together, these climatic elements underscore the resilience of local communities and the importance of adapting to environmental changes while optimizing the benefits provided by consistent sunlight and seasonal rainfalls.