Last updated: January 18, 2025
Sanaag, Somalia, experiences a BWh climate as per the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized by its arid nature and significant temperature variation. The region's minimum temperature drops to a chilly 6°C (44°F) in January, while the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 24°C (75°F). The summer months bring a remarkable increase, with temperatures peaking at an impressive 37°C (99°F) in July. This climatic profile highlights Sanaag's distinct weather patterns, shaped by its geographical and environmental conditions.
Temperature patterns in Sanaag, Somalia, demonstrate distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The coldest months are January and December, with minimum temperatures dropping to 6-8°C (44-47°F), while averages range from 20-21°C (69-70°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May and June, where maximums reach 35-36°C (96-98°F) and average temperatures stabilize around 25-26°C (78-79°F). The height of summer, particularly in July and August, sees maximum temperatures soaring to 37°C (99°F), along with averages maintaining around 26-27°C (79-80°F). The onset of autumn in October introduces a slight cooling trend, yet temperatures remain relatively warm as the region transitions back to its cooler winter months. This temperature fluctuation illustrates the arid and warm climate characteristic of Sanaag, influenced by its geographical location.
Las Khorey experiences mild winters with January temperatures averaging a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and heats up significantly in July, reaching maximums of 37°C (99°F) as detailed in monthly temperatures in Las Khorey. In contrast, Ceerigaabo has a cooler climate with January lows dropping to 6°C (44°F) and warmer conditions peaking at 31°C (88°F) in May, as per monthly temperatures in Ceerigaabo.
Precipitation in Sanaag, Somalia, exhibits notable variations throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring during the spring months of April and May. In April, 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain falls over approximately 8 days, while May sees a significant increase to 80 mm (3.1 in) across around 10 days, highlighting this period as the climax of the rainy season. In contrast, the initial months of the year, particularly January and February, record minimal precipitation of just 3 mm (0.1 in), with no rainfall days reported, establishing a prolonged dry spell that contributes to the region's arid climate.
As the year progresses into the drier season, June, July, and August exhibit a sharp decline in precipitation, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) in June and negligible amounts in July and August. The autumn months begin to demonstrate a gradual increase, particularly in October with 45 mm (1.8 in), marking a resurgence of rain following the dry summer. November and December maintain this trend with 28 mm (1.1 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in), respectively. Overall, the precipitation pattern in Sanaag underscores a clear seasonal rhythm, characterized by a brief rainy season and extended dry periods, which are essential in shaping the region's climate and ecosystem.
In Sanaag, Somalia, sunshine duration reveals a marked seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter to summer. The year kicks off with 277 hours of sunshine in January, gradually rising to 349 hours by March, indicating a swift transition towards more abundant sunlight as spring unfolds. The peak sunshine period occurs in May, where residents bask in 350 hours of sun, followed closely by June and July with 328-332 hours each. This highlights a pattern where the late spring and summer months provide the most favorable conditions for sunlight, supporting both agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits.
As autumn approaches, sunshine hours begin to stabilize, with October experiencing 346 hours before dipping slightly in November to 328 hours. December, however, experiences a slight increase again to 338 hours. This consistent availability of sunlight, even during the shorter winter months, ensures that Sanaag continues to receive substantial solar energy throughout the year. Overall, the sunshine duration in Sanaag underscores its predominantly sunny climate, characterized by extended sunlight hours that contribute to the region's warmth and arid lifestyle.
The UV Index in Sanaag, Somalia, consistently remains in the extreme category throughout the year, reflecting the region's strong solar radiation. Starting with a UV Index of 13 in January, levels peak at 16 in March and April, indicating that even minimal exposure can lead to skin damage in as little as 10 minutes. This extreme UV index underscores the critical need for sun protection, particularly during the initial months of the year, where residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures against UV exposure to maintain skin health.
As the year progresses, UV Index values fluctuate but largely remain elevated; for example, the index drops slightly to 11 by December, signifying a minor decrease but still categorizing it as extreme. Notably, months like July and August maintain a high UV Index of 14-15, emphasizing that even during the cooler seasons, the threat of overexposure persists. Collectively, the sustained extreme UV levels throughout the year highlight the importance of protective practices in Sanaag, ensuring both health and safety under the intense sun.
UV Risk Categories
In Sanaag, Somalia, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, fluctuating between 11 and 12 hours. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing a solid foundation for daily activities. As March arrives, daylight increases to 12 hours, a duration that remains consistent through to August. This steady span of daylight fosters an environment conducive to farming and outdoor activities, reflecting the region's reliance on sunlight for both livelihood and leisure.
As the year transitions into the cooler autumn and winter months, daylight duration reverts back to 11 hours in October and remains constant through December. This pattern suggests minimal seasonal variation in daylight, signaling that residents of Sanaag can expect a predictable and balanced distribution of light throughout the year. Such consistency not only aids in planning daily tasks but also contributes to the region's overall climatic stability, reinforcing the significance of sunlight in shaping local lifestyles.
Ceerigaabo, Somalia, features a mild and relatively dry climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rains. Winter months (December to February) see average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 19°C (64°F to 67°F) with minimal precipitation. The wettest period occurs from April to May, with May receiving up to 123 mm of rain, while temperatures peak at around 31°C (88°F). The region enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, averaging around 328 hours monthly, making it a bright and pleasant place to visit. For more detailed weather statistics, visit Ceerigaabo climate.
Las Khorey, Somalia experiences a warm climate characterized by high temperatures and low precipitation. Monthly average temperatures range from 23°C (74°F) in January to 32°C (89°F) in the peak summer months of July and August. Rainfall is minimal, with the highest averages occurring in April (30 mm) and May (36 mm), while July and August see almost no rain. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in May with 352 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Las Khorey climate.
In conclusion, Sanaag, Somalia, presents a distinctive climate characterized by its arid conditions, extreme UV Index, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. The region experiences a consistent temperature pattern with warm summers and cooler winters, while precipitation peaks during the spring months, emphasizing its seasonal rhythms. Coupled with the extreme UV levels and generous sunshine hours, residents and visitors face significant solar exposure throughout the year, necessitating protective measures against UV radiation. Overall, the climatic attributes of Sanaag not only influence the daily lives of its inhabitants but also shape the natural landscape and agricultural practices that thrive in this unique environment.