Last updated: January 18, 2025
Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, is characterized by a BWh (hot desert) and BSh (semi-arid) climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. The region experiences marked temperature fluctuations, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) recorded in January, rising to an average of 24°C (76°F) throughout the year. The peak temperature reaches a sweltering 38°C (101°F) in June, highlighting the intense heat and aridity that define this part of Somalia. These climatic conditions play a significant role in shaping the ecological and socio-economic landscape of the region.
The temperature patterns in Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. January marks the coldest month, with minimum temperatures dropping to 7°C (45°F), gradually rising to a monthly average of 20°C (69°F). As the year progresses into the warmer months, temperatures continue to rise, peaking in June with maximum values reaching 38°C (101°F), accompanied by minimums around 17°C (63°F). The months of May through September showcase the hottest stretches, where averages hover around 26°C to 27°C (79°F to 80°F). Following this period, temperatures gradually decline as the year closes, leading to cooler conditions by December, where the maximums are back to 29°C (85°F). This cyclical temperature trend reflects the region's semi-arid climate, revealing significant warmth most of the year, punctuated by cooler months in the early year and later winter.
Berbera experiences a minimum temperature of 21°C (70°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in June, making it one of the warmer locations in the region (monthly temperatures in Berbera). In contrast, Baligubadle has cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) in January and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Baligubadle). Hargeysa similarly has a chilly January with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 36°C (96°F) in May (monthly temperatures in Hargeysa).
Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, experiences a highly variable precipitation pattern throughout the year, primarily concentrated from March to November. January and February are notably dry months, recording a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) and 5 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall respectively, with zero rainy days. As the climate transitions into the rainy season, March sees a significant increase to 12 mm (0.5 in), followed by April, which is the wettest month, delivering 57 mm (2.2 in) over 8 rainy days. May also contributes to this season’s rainfall, with 40 mm (1.6 in), albeit with fewer rainy days, indicating a shift towards sporadic heavy showers.
Following the peak precipitation months of April and May, the overall rainfall begins to decline during the summer. June records minimal rainfall of 8 mm (0.3 in) and no rainy days, while July and August maintain a steady but modest contribution of 11 mm (0.4 in) each. The onset of a secondary rain phase occurs in October and November, with 30 mm (1.2 in) and 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain respectively, yet still lower than peak earlier months. By December, the precipitation drops again to 8 mm (0.3 in), illustrating the cyclical nature of rainfall in this semi-arid region.
Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, showcases a notable seasonal trend in sunshine duration, characterized by a steady ascent in hours from winter to summer. Beginning in January with 278 hours of sunshine, the region experiences an uplifting increase throughout the first quarter of the year, peaking in March at 348 hours. This period marks the transition to warmer and sunnier conditions, setting the stage for consistent brightness that extends into the late spring and summer months. Notably, May holds a slight edge with 349 hours, indicating a vibrant time of year where the sun’s rays dominate the sky before the onset of the humid season.
As the year progresses, the sunshine hours remain impressively stable, with June through August recording between 330 to 340 hours. This consistency illustrates the region's extended sunny disposition during the summer months. Interestingly, even as temperatures peak, this balance of warmth and light continues into September and October, where sunshine duration remains robust at 332 hours and 343 hours, respectively. However, as the year draws to a close, the sunshine hours gently taper off, with November and December recording 328 hours and 339 hours respectively. This gradual decline reinforces the seasonal patterns of light availability, casting Woqooyi Galbeed as a region rich in sunshine, particularly during the spring and summer months, contributing positively to its arid climate.
The UV Index in Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, reveals consistently high levels of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year, indicative of the region's extreme sun exposure. Starting with a UV Index of 13 in January, the values escalate to a peak of 16 in both April and August, warranting an "extreme" exposure category. This highlights the critical need for sun protection, as the burn time remains perilously short at just 10 minutes across all months. The early months of the year show elevated indices, particularly in February and March at 15, suggesting that even during this transitional period, the risk of UV damage is substantial.
Moving into the latter part of the year, the UV Index remains notably high, maintaining values between 11 and 15, with November and December showing the least intensity at 12 and 11, respectively. Despite these reductions, the exposure category continues to classify as extreme, underscoring the importance of vigilance against sunburn and other UV-related health risks year-round. This persistent high UV Index throughout the seasons emphasizes the need for local communities and visitors alike to adopt protective measures, such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing, to mitigate the effects of UV radiation in Woqooyi Galbeed.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with variations that reflect the region's proximity to the equator. January and February each provide 11 hours of daylight, setting the tone for the beginning of the year. As spring approaches, daylight peaks slightly in March, April, May, and remains consistent at 12 hours for four consecutive months. This consistent increase highlights the balanced sunlight exposure typical of tropical climates, allowing for extended hours of natural light, productive use of the day, and a significant boost to local agriculture.
As the year transitions towards the end, daylight duration returns to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This cyclical pattern, characterized by a slight uptick to 12 hours in the late spring and summer months, followed by a retreat back to 11 hours, reflects the relatively unchanged daytime environment common in equatorial regions. Thus, the consistent daylight throughout the year not only influences daily activities and lifestyles but also sustains the ecological rhythms that are essential to the local biodiversity of Woqooyi Galbeed.
The climate in Baligubadle, Somalia is characterized by warm temperatures and a distinct wet season from April to June. Average monthly temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (94°F) in May. Precipitation is minimal in the early months, with April seeing the highest rainfall at 87 mm (3.4 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from March to May, with around 350 hours of sunshine each month during this period. For more detailed information, visit Baligubadle climate.
Berbera, Somalia, experiences a hot desert climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) in January to a peak of 38°C (101°F) in June. Most months have average temperatures between 24°C (76°F) and 33°C (91°F), with July and August showcasing consistently high humidity and heat. Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, with October and November receiving the most rainfall, totaling 35 mm and 44 mm respectively. Despite the limited rainfall, Berbera enjoys abundant sunshine, averaging up to 350 hours in May, making it a bright destination year-round. For more information, visit Berbera climate.
The climate in Hargeysa, Somalia is characterized by mild temperatures and limited precipitation. January sees minimum temperatures around 7°C (45°F), rising to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) by the end of the month, with minimal rainfall of only 1 mm. Rainfall peaks in April and May, accumulating 59 mm and 50 mm respectively, while temperatures reach up to 36°C (96°F). Throughout the year, Hargeysa enjoys abundant sunshine, with March and May offering the most hours—349 and 348 respectively. For further details, visit Hargeysa climate.
In conclusion, Woqooyi Galbeed, Somalia, presents a unique climatic profile characterized by its high temperatures and abundant sunshine, coupled with extreme UV index values year-round. The region's precipitation patterns demonstrate significant variability, with peak rainfall occurring from March to May, contributing to a brief but impactful rainy season. Throughout the year, daylight duration remains consistent, offering an average of 11 to 12 hours of sunlight that supports both daily activities and the local ecosystem. These climatic and environmental factors collectively influence not only the health and lifestyle of the inhabitants but also the patterns of agriculture and biodiversity, underscoring the importance of adapting to and harnessing these natural resources effectively in Woqooyi Galbeed.