Last updated: April 14, 2025
Sudan's climate is characterized by extreme temperature variations and significant seasonal changes in precipitation. In the Northern State, temperatures can plummet to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in January, while reaching a scorching 47°C (118°F) by June. The country's rainfall is highly localized, with White Nile experiencing virtually no precipitation in January, contrasted by Central Darfur, where August can bring a remarkable 228 mm (9.0 in). Humidity levels further illustrate the climate's diversity, dropping to an average low of 9% in February in Western Darfur, before surging to an average high of 84% in September, revealing the complex interplay of arid and moist conditions that define Sudan's unique environmental landscape.
Sudan's climate is diverse, with a mix of arid and semi-arid zones that significantly influence its ecology and agriculture. The majority of the country experiences a hot desert climate (BWh), particularly in regions like Al Jazīrah, Kassala, Khartoum, and the Red Sea. In contrast, areas such as Al Qaḑārif, Blue Nile, and multiple districts in Darfur, including Central Darfur and Western Darfur, experience a semi-arid climate (BSh), characterized by slightly higher rainfall. Places like Southern Kordofan and White Nile show a blend of both climate types, making Sudan's landscape not only varied but also rich in potential for different agricultural practices and adaptations.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
Sudan's temperature showcases a striking contrast throughout the year, with extremes that define the region's climate. In the cooler months of January and February, the thermometer dips to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in Northern State while soaring to a sizzling 44°C (112°F) in Sinnār. As spring sets in, March brings a slight increase, with temperatures reaching 45°C (113°F) in Al Qaḑārif. The heat intensifies in April and May, where temperatures peak at an astounding 47°C (116°F) in both Al Qaḑārif and Al Jazīrah. Moving into the summer months, June and July remain consistently hot, with maximums hovering around 47°C (118°F), particularly in Northern State and Red Sea. As autumn approaches, temperatures gradually begin to cool, with September and October maintaining high averages while offering a respite with minimums around 16°C (61°F). Finally, November and December introduce more comfortable conditions, dropping to 10°C (50°F) in Northern Darfur and 5°C (41°F) in Northern State, revealing Sudan's significant temperature fluctuations across the year.
Sudan experiences a striking contrast in precipitation patterns throughout the year, characterized by both extremes in rainfall amounts and the number of wet days. While January remains arid with a minimum precipitation of 0 mm in White Nile, the peak of the rainy season occurs in August, when Central Darfur witnesses an impressive 228 mm (9.0 in) of rainfall over an average of 27 days. This seasonal shift underscores the region's reliance on August's monsoon rains, which rejuvenate the parched landscape after months of dry spells. Notably, October can also see drought-like conditions, evidenced by a complete lack of precipitation in Kassala. These fluctuating patterns reveal the critical role of the rainy season in shaping Sudan's ecosystems and agricultural cycles.
Sudan experiences significant fluctuations in humidity throughout the year, particularly in regions like Western Darfur. The driest month, February, sees humidity levels drop to a mere 9%, creating an arid atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the peak in September, when humidity can soar to a staggering 84%. This dramatic variation not only reflects the challenges of the local climate but also highlights the seasonal shifts that influence agricultural practices and daily life in the region.
Sudan's UV Index trends reveal significant variations in ultraviolet radiation across different months and regions. In April, the capital city, Khartoum, experiences a striking average daily maximum UV Index of 13, highlighting the intense sun exposure typical of the beginning of the dry season. This intensity is further underscored in August when Southern Kordofan records an even higher average daily max UVI of 15. This upward trend in UV levels emphasizes the importance of sun safety precautions, particularly during the peak months when exposure risk is at its highest across the country.
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Sunshine duration in Sudan reveals intriguing seasonal patterns, highlighting regional disparities. In January, the Red Sea region averages 248 hours of sunshine, while the Blue Nile enjoys slightly more at 275 hours. As the seasons shift, the sun shines even brighter in May, particularly in Northern State, which basks in an impressive 367 hours. Southern Kordofan, too, experiences substantial sunshine during this month, recording 347 hours. This trend underscores the variation across the country, suggesting that while the west receives generous sunshine, the east must wait for seasonal transitions to enjoy longer daylight hours.
In Sudan, the likelihood of sunny weather reveals striking regional variations throughout the year. For instance, March in the Northern State boasts an impressive 98% chance of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months in this area. In contrast, the Blue Nile experiences a significant drop in sunny days during July, with only 16% likelihood, highlighting the impact of seasonal changes and geographical differences. This disparity underscores the diverse climate experiences across Sudan, where sun-seekers may find their ideal conditions in different regions and times of the year.
In Sudan, daylight hours exhibit a notable seasonal variation, especially in the Red Sea region. During December, the sun graces the area with approximately 10 hours of daylight, making the days feel relatively shorter. However, this transitions dramatically in June, when daylight extends to about 13 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. This shift reflects the influence of seasonal changes, inviting both residents and visitors to experience the vibrant natural beauty of Sudan under the sun’s bright embrace during the longer days of summer.
Al Jazīrah, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate characterized by sweltering summers and mild winters. From January to March, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May with maxima reaching up to 47°C (116°F). Rainfall is sparse, with most precipitation occurring between June and August, when humidity levels also climb, making the air feel more oppressive. Despite this, the region's dry winter months see very little rainfall, creating a stark contrast in climate throughout the year. For a more detailed overview, check the Al Jazīrah climate.
In Al Qaḑārif, Sudan, the climate is characterized by extremely hot temperatures, particularly from March to May, where daily highs soar above 45°C (113°F). The dry months from January to March see almost no rainfall, while the summer months of June to August bring significant precipitation, with August recording a substantial 181 mm (7.1 in) of rain. Humidity levels also rise during this period, peaking at 73% in September, creating a contrasting environment to the earlier months. With its near-zero rainfall in winter and intense summer rain, Al Qaḑārif offers a unique climate experience. For more detailed insights, visit Al Qaḑārif climate.
The climate of Blue Nile, Sudan showcases a striking contrast between the dry, scorching heat of winter and the humid, rainy periods of summer. From January to April, temperatures soar, frequently reaching above 40°C (104°F), while precipitation remains minimal. As the rainy season approaches in May, the region transforms, with humidity levels rising sharply alongside increasing rainfall, peaking in July and August when downpours drench the landscape. Autumn brings a gradual return to drier conditions, yet warm temperatures persist, creating a unique blend of climate experiences throughout the year. For more details on this fascinating weather pattern, check out Blue Nile climate.
The climate in Central Darfur is characterized by hot, dry conditions for most of the year, with temperatures peaking in April and May, when highs can reach up to 41°C (105°F). The months from June to August bring heavier rainfall, with July often seeing the most precipitation at 170 mm (6.7 in) and humidity levels rising significantly, reaching 71%. As the year progresses into the cooler months of December and January, temperatures drop to a pleasant min of 9°C (48°F), providing a refreshing contrast. Overall, the region's climate is marked by its stark transitions from dry heat to humid rain, making it a unique landscape to experience. For more detailed information, visit Central Darfur climate.
Eastern Darfur, Sudan, experiences a hot semi-arid climate characterized by scorching temperatures and a distinct wet season. From January to April, temperatures soar, with average highs peaking at 44°C (111°F) in March, while humidity remains low, reaching only 10% in March. The rains begin in May, culminating in a peak in August, where humidity touches 79% and precipitation reaches 118 mm (4.6 in). As the rainy season wanes from September to November, temperatures stay relatively high, providing a warm transition into the cooler months of December and January. For more detailed insights, explore Eastern Darfur climate.
Kassala, Sudan, offers a hot desert climate characterized by sweltering summers and mild winters. From January to April, temperatures start at a pleasant 25°C (77°F) and soar towards blistering highs of 45°C (112°F) in April, with almost no precipitation recorded until May. The rainy season peaks in July and August, bringing occasional downpours, which raise humidity levels to around 50%, offering brief relief from the heat. As the year closes, temperatures gradually cool down, making December a more comfortable 27°C (80°F). For a deeper look into Kassala’s weather patterns, check out Kassala climate.
Khartoum, Sudan, experiences a harsh desert climate, characterized by intense heat and minimal rainfall throughout most of the year. From January to April, temperatures steadily rise from a mild 23°C (74°F) to scorching highs of 44°C (112°F) in April, with nearly no precipitation recorded. The warmest months, May and June, see averages reaching 35°C (95°F) and highs soaring to 46°C (114°F), while humidity begins to creep upward. Monsoon season brings some relief in July and August, with rainfall peaking at 34 mm (1.3 in) in August, yet temperatures remain high, often above 40°C (104°F). For a deeper dive into Khartoum's unique climate conditions, visit Khartoum climate.
North Kordofan, Sudan, experiences a hot and arid climate, with temperatures peaking in the summer months, reaching up to 44°C (112°F) in May. During the winter, temperatures drop to a cooler 9°C (49°F) in January, but average highs still hover around a comfortable 23°C (73°F). Rainfall is scarce for most of the year, with the majority of precipitation occurring between June and August, when monsoon-like conditions bring up to 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain in August. Humidity levels rise significantly during these months, contributing to a muggy atmosphere, in stark contrast to the dry air prevalent from January to April. For more details, explore the full North Kordofan climate.
In Northern Darfur, Sudan, the climate is characterized by scorching temperatures and minimal precipitation, making it a region where the heat is a constant companion. January to April sees average highs soaring to around 41°C (106°F), while the mercury peaks in May at a blistering 43°C (109°F). The dry season reigns from January to June, with scant rainfall, but the landscape shifts dramatically in August, when up to 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain can fall amidst a rise in humidity. By October, temperatures start to cool slightly, settling into a more tolerable range, yet the dry season resumes in late autumn, keeping conditions dry until the next rainy spell. For more detailed information, visit Northern Darfur climate.
The climate in Northern State, Sudan is characterized by extreme temperatures and minimal precipitation, making it one of the hottest regions in the country. From January to April, temperatures steadily rise, reaching a sweltering peak in May and June, with maximums soaring up to 47°C (118°F). The humidity remains low throughout the year, often dropping below 15% during the hottest months. While the area experiences a slight increase in rainfall during the summer months, total precipitation remains negligible, making this desert climate both challenging and captivating. For more details, visit the Northern State climate.
The climate of the Red Sea in Sudan is characterized by hot temperatures and minimal precipitation, making it a unique destination throughout the year. From January to March, the average temperatures gradually rise, peaking in May and June with sweltering highs that can reach 47°C (117°F). Notably, rainfall is scarce, with June often seeing less than 1 mm of precipitation, while the wettest months, November and December, bring modest amounts of 52 mm and 56 mm respectively. Low humidity levels further contribute to the area's aridity, particularly during the summer months. For a deeper dive into this stunning climate, check out the detailed insights at Red Sea climate.
The climate along the River Nile in Sudan showcases a striking contrast between the scorching heat of summer and a brief respite during cooler months. From January to April, temperatures steadily climb, reaching a blazing max of 47°C (116°F) in June, while humidity remains low, often dropping to around 15%. Although rainfall is scarce, peaking in August with about 25 mm, the dry season from December to March offers sun-drenched days perfect for exploration. As you navigate this arid landscape, the distinct fluctuations in temperature and humidity create a unique atmosphere, shaping the journey along this historic river. For more detailed insights, check out River Nile climate.
Situated in the heart of Sudan, Sinnār experiences a predominantly hot desert climate, characterized by scorching temperatures and minimal rainfall. From January to March, the days start mild but quickly escalate to peak averages of 32°C (91°F) in March, with max temperatures soaring to 45°C (113°F) in April and May. The summer months of July and August bring slightly cooler averages but also the region's heaviest rainfall, especially in August, with 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation. Humidity levels rise significantly during this period, peaking at 64%, making it feel even warmer. For a deeper dive into the seasonal variations and climate specifics, visit Sinnār climate.
Southern Darfur, Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extreme temperatures that can soar above 40°C (104°F) in the summer months, particularly from March to May. With minimal rainfall primarily occurring between June and September, the region transforms during this period, receiving most of its annual precipitation, peaking in July and August with over 100 mm (3.9 in). As humidity rises significantly during the rainy months, reaching up to 81%, the dry season brings a stark contrast with very low humidity levels, sometimes dipping to just 10% in February. This unique blend of heat and moisture creates a dynamic environment influenced by the distinct seasonal shifts. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, visit Southern Darfur climate.
Nestled in the heart of Sudan, Southern Kordofan experiences a unique climate characterized by sweltering summers and a brief rainy season. From January to March, the temperatures soar, reaching highs of up to 44°C (111°F), while moisture remains scarce, with little to no rainfall. As the rains arrive in June, peaking dramatically in August with over 170 mm, the humidity soars, creating a contrast to the dry, hot months that precede it. By the cooler months of November and December, the temperatures ease, settling around 27°C (81°F), though the humidity remains relatively high. This dynamic climate shapes both the landscape and the daily lives of those who call Southern Kordofan climate home.
Nestled in the heart of Sudan, West Kordofan State experiences a hot climate characterized by sweltering temperatures, especially from March to May, where highs reach up to 44°C (112°F). The dry season stretches from January to April, witnessing negligible rainfall, while the rainy season from May to October brings significant precipitation, peaking in August with 129 mm (5.1 in). Humidity levels rise alongside rainfall, averaging around 74% in August, contributing to the region's tropical feel. With such diverse climatic conditions, West Kordofan offers a unique environmental backdrop that shapes its local culture and lifestyle. For more in-depth information, visit West Kordofan State climate.
In Western Darfur, Sudan, the climate presents a striking contrast from cool, dry winters to hot, humid summers. January and February are characterized by mild temperatures, with averages hovering around 21°C (71°F) to 23°C (73°F), while March to May sees a dramatic rise, peaking at an intense 42°C (107°F) in May. The summer months of June to August bring heavy rainfall, with July recording an astonishing 157 mm (6.2 in), resulting in high humidity levels reaching up to 82%. As the year transitions into autumn, the rains lessen, and the temperatures cool slightly, offering a more temperate climate. Discover more about this unique climate profile by visiting Western Darfur climate.
The climate in White Nile, Sudan is characterized by extreme temperatures and low precipitation, making it a region of intense heat. From January to March, temperatures steadily rise, peaking at nearly 46°C (115°F) in May, while low humidity levels contribute to a dry atmosphere. The rainy season begins in June, bringing increased humidity and the heaviest rainfall in August, with 99 mm (3.9 in) recorded. This pattern results in hot, arid conditions punctuated by brief periods of respite during the rains, making the climate unique and stark. For a more detailed look, visit White Nile climate.
In examining the climate of Sudan, a clear trend emerges, characterized by extreme temperature variations and distinct seasonal precipitation patterns. January in Northern State sees a sharp temperature drop to a chilly 4°C (39°F), contrasting starkly with the punishing heat of June, where temperatures can soar to a blistering 47°C (118°F). The rainfall patterns exhibit a pronounced seasonal shift, with January recording minimal precipitation of 0 mm in White Nile, while August brings a dramatic increase to 228 mm in Central Darfur, underscoring the region's reliance on the rainy season for agriculture and water resources. Additionally, humidity levels fluctuate widely, with February in Western Darfur experiencing a dry average of just 9%, sharply rising to 84% by September. These climatic extremes and seasonal transitions not only define Sudan's environment but also play a critical role in shaping the daily lives and agricultural practices of its inhabitants.