Last updated: January 18, 2025
North Kordofan, Sudan, exhibits a climate characterized primarily by arid (BWh) and semi-arid (BSh) conditions. Temperatures in the region range significantly, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) recorded in January, rising to an average of 28°C (83°F) throughout the year, and peaking at an impressive 44°C (112°F) in May. This distinct temperature variability highlights the extreme climatic features of North Kordofan, influencing both agricultural practices and daily life in this unique region.
North Kordofan, Sudan, experiences pronounced temperature fluctuations throughout the year, showcasing distinct seasonal trends. January heralds the coldest months, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and averaging 23°C (73°F). As winter progresses into February and March, temperatures gradually rise, peaking to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) by late March. The April to June period witnesses further warming, with May becoming the hottest month, where daytime maxima reach 44°C (112°F). This summer heat tapers off in July and August, where temperatures start to moderate but remain warm, averaging around 29°C (85°F). By September, the cooling trend continues, with temperatures reaching pleasant averages of 29°C (84°F) before descending into the cooler conditions of fall in October and November. This cyclical pattern underscores the stark contrasts in temperature that characterize the region’s climate, reflecting the broader arid and semi-arid classification typical of North Kordofan.
In North Kordofan, Umm Ruwaba experiences a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) in January, rising to a scorching maximum of 44°C (112°F) in May monthly temperatures in Umm Ruwaba. Similarly, both Barah and El Obeid share a lower minimum of 9°C (49°F) in January and peak at 43°C (110°F) in May, with their respective temperature data available at monthly temperatures in Barah and monthly temperatures in El Obeid.
In North Kordofan, Sudan, precipitation patterns demonstrate a stark seasonal contrast, aligning closely with the region's arid climate. From January to April, the region experiences a dry spell with zero rainfall recorded throughout these months, characterized by a complete absence of precipitation. This dry period sets the stage for a gradual increase in rainfall beginning in May, when the first significant precipitation of the year occurs, with 12 mm (0.5 in) recorded over just 3 days. As the season progresses into the summer months, rainfall becomes more frequent and abundant.
The peak of precipitation occurs during the July and August monsoon season, where July receives 45 mm (1.8 in) and August records a substantial 91 mm (3.6 in), with rainfall spread over 10 and 14 days, respectively. Following this wet period, September sees a decrease to 32 mm (1.3 in), and precipitation dwindles significantly in October before returning to dry conditions in November and December. This distinct wet and dry cycle is crucial for the local ecosystem and agricultural practices, as it influences water availability and crop production throughout the year.
In North Kordofan, Sudan, the sunshine duration showcases a clear increase as the year progresses, reflecting the transition from colder to warmer months. Starting with 271 hours of sunshine in January, the duration steadily rises, reaching 305 hours in February and peaking in March at 345 hours. This trend continues into the warmer months, with May standing out as the month with the highest sunshine at 354 hours. The abundant sunlight during this period promotes significant evaporation and contributes to the region's overall warmth, which is crucial for agriculture yet challenging during peak summer.
As the year continues, sunshine hours begin to stabilize with only minor fluctuations. June to October retains an impressive level of sunshine, ranging from 336 to 328 hours. Interestingly, the slight dip in sunshine during these months, particularly in September, indicates a transition toward the cooler, cloudier months ahead, while overall, the region maintains a consistently sunny disposition throughout the year. By the time November rolls around, the sunshine duration decreases to 323 hours, hinting at the onset of the drier months of winter. Overall, the analysis of sunshine hours in North Kordofan underscores the region's potential for solar energy and highlights the variability inherent in arid climates.
The UV Index in North Kordofan, Sudan, indicates a significant risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, particularly during the peak months of February to August, where values consistently fall within the extreme category. In February, the UV Index spikes to 12, suggesting that for individuals with fair skin, it only takes about 10 minutes of exposure to cause sunburn. This trend towards increasingly hazardous UV levels continues through March and April, reaching a maximum of 14 in March. Such high indices during these months emphasize the need for appropriate sun protection, including sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially for outdoor activities.
As the year progresses, although the UV Index slightly decreases, the values remain predominantly extreme through June to August, with recurring peaks of 13 to 14. Even as summer approaches, the burn time remains alarmingly low at 10 minutes, underscoring the persistent threat posed by solar radiation in this region. By November, the UV Index drops to 10, transitioning back to the very high exposure category, while December sees a further decline to 9. This cyclical pattern of high UV exposure illustrates the importance of sun safety measures throughout much of the year, particularly in the sun-drenched environment of North Kordofan.
UV Risk Categories
In North Kordofan, Sudan, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that reflect the region's geographical positioning. From January to February, daylight remains consistent at 11 hours, providing a steady light source during the cooler winter months. As the seasons transition into spring, there is a slight increase in daylight hours to 12 hours in March, and this duration remains unchanged through the following months of April, May, June, July, August, and September. This relatively prolonged daylight period aligns with the warmer temperatures that characterize the region during the latter part of the year.
As autumn approaches, daylight duration begins to taper off once again. In October, the hours of daylight decrease back to 11 hours, continuing through November and December. This cyclical trend illustrates the predictable nature of daylight exposure in North Kordofan, supporting both agricultural activities and outdoor lifestyles. Overall, while daylight hours exhibit slight seasonal variations, they maintain a substantial length throughout most of the year, contributing to the region's solar intensity and enhancing the importance of effective land management practices.
Ar Rahad, Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall. From January to April, temperatures rise significantly, with April peaking at a maximum of 43°C (110°F). Precipitation is scarce, with the majority occurring between May and August, particularly in August with 110 mm (4.3 in). Despite the heat, sunshine is abundant, reaching up to 353 hours in May, making it one of the sunniest months. For more detailed information, visit Ar Rahad climate.
Barah, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall. Average monthly temperatures range from a cool 22°C (72°F) in January to a scorching 33°C (91°F) in May, with maximum temperatures peaking at 43°C (110°F) in May and June. Precipitation is scarce, primarily occurring in the summer months, with August receiving the most rainfall at 62 mm (2.5 in). Despite the heat, Barah enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, boasting up to 356 hours in May. For more detailed climate information, visit Barah climate.
El Obeid, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. January temperatures range from a chilly 9°C (49°F) to highs of 40°C (103°F), gradually rising to peak temperatures of 43°C (110°F) by May. Rainfall is minimal, primarily occurring between May and September, with August receiving the most precipitation at 87 mm (3.4 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May boasting the highest hours at 355. For more detailed information, visit El Obeid climate.
Umm Ruwaba, Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall throughout the year. The hottest months are typically May and June, with average temperatures reaching up to 33°C (92°F) and 32°C (89°F), respectively, while the coolest month is January, averaging 24°C (76°F). Rainfall is scarce, with the majority occurring between May and September; August sees the highest precipitation at 103 mm (4.0 in). Despite the heat, the region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in May with 354 hours. For more information, visit Umm Ruwaba climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental conditions of North Kordofan, Sudan, reflect a distinct pattern characterized by high temperatures, significant sunshine duration, and considerable UV exposure. The seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation, coupled with stable daylight hours, create a unique setting for both the local ecosystem and agricultural practices. Understanding these climatic aspects is crucial for developing effective adaptations in water management, crop cultivation, and public health strategies, particularly in response to the high UV Index and extreme heat. As North Kordofan continues to navigate the challenges posed by its arid environment, addressing these factors will be essential for ensuring sustainable development and the wellbeing of its communities.