Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Red Sea region in Sudan is characterized by a hot desert (BWh) classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. This climate is marked by significant temperature fluctuations, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) recorded in January, escalating to a scorching maximum of 47°C (117°F) in June. The average temperature throughout the year hovers around 29°C (84°F), showcasing the extreme warmth typical of this arid environment. These climatic conditions influence both the regional ecosystem and the socio-economic activities of the local populace, presenting a unique blend of challenges and opportunities.
Temperature patterns in the Red Sea region of Sudan exhibit notable seasonal variations, with a clear progression from cooler winter months to extreme summer heat. January begins with lows around 6°C (43°F), gradually rising to an average of 22°C (73°F) and peaking at 36°C (96°F). As March approaches, the minimum temperatures increase, reaching 9°C (48°F), while the maximum can soar to 41°C (106°F). The transition into May signals a more intense heat, with average temperatures escalating to 31°C (88°F) and maximums hitting 45°C (112°F). June and July are characterized by extreme conditions, where minimum temperatures settle around 21°C (71°F) and can reach up to 47°C (117°F). Despite slight dips in August and September, the heat remains significant, with average highs around 35°C (95°F). The arrival of October ushers in a gradual cooling trend, with temperatures declining toward winter values by December, when lows hover around 9°C (49°F) again. This seasonal thermal cycle reflects the desert climate's stark contrasts, with a clear demarcation between the temperate and sweltering months.
In the Red Sea region of Sudan, Sawakin experiences a January minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) and a July maximum of 42°C (108°F) monthly temperatures in Sawakin. Port Sudan has slightly cooler January temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F), but can reach up to 44°C (112°F) (July) monthly temperatures in Port Sudan. In contrast, Tokar records a higher minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) in January and peaks at a scorching 47°C (117°F) in June monthly temperatures in Tokar.
Precipitation in the Red Sea region of Sudan reveals a distinct seasonal pattern, predominantly characterized by low rainfall throughout the majority of the year. January marks the wettest month, with 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain arriving over about 8 days. As winter transitions to spring, rainfall declines sharply, with February receiving only 15 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days, and March and April recording mere 2 mm (0.1 in) each. This trend continues into the early summer months, where virtually no rainfall is observed from June to July, highlighting the region's arid climate.
However, the precipitation pattern shifts dramatically in the latter part of the year, with significant rainfall returning in November and December. November experiences a considerable increase in precipitation, amounting to 52 mm (2.1 in) over 12 days, followed closely by December, which receives 56 mm (2.2 in) across 11 days. This late-year surge contributes to a brief yet vital pulse of moisture, contrasting sharply with the near-dry conditions of the preceding months. Overall, the Red Sea's precipitation is highly variable, underscoring the climate's marked extremes.
In the Red Sea region of Sudan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear and consistent seasonal trend marked by a steady increase from winter into summer. January begins the year with 248 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises in February to 296 hours. As spring unfolds, this upward trajectory accelerates, peaking in May with an impressive 366 hours of bright sunshine, making it the sunniest month of the year. The pattern remains robust into the summer months, with June and July maintaining equally high levels of sunlight at 356 hours and 355 hours, respectively. This period of extended daylight is critical, fostering the region's arid flora and supporting local livelihoods dependent on solar energy.
As autumn approaches, the duration of sunshine begins to taper slightly, though it remains substantial compared to the winter months. From August onward, sunshine hours gradually decline, reflecting the onset of seasonal shifts. For instance, August records 345 hours, while September sees a decrease to 328 hours. October brings a slight recovery with 332 hours, but November and December return to lower levels, receiving 304 and 299 hours, respectively. Despite this decline, the Red Sea region continues to benefit from abundant sunshine throughout the year, reinforcing its reputation as a bright and arid climate where the sun remains a dominant force in shaping both the environment and local activities.
The UV Index in the Red Sea region of Sudan demonstrates significant variability throughout the year, reflecting the area’s intense sun exposure. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers at 9, classified as very high, which indicates a burn time of just 15 minutes for unprotected skin. This trend continues into February with a slight increase to 10, maintaining the same exposure category. The arrival of March heralds a marked escalation, as the UV Index surges to 13, entering the extreme category and reducing the burn time to 10 minutes. This extreme level persists through April and May, reinforcing the importance of sun safety during these months when UV radiation is at its peak.
As summer unfolds, the UV Index slightly fluctuates, remaining in the extreme range with 11 to 12 from June to August. During this period, the critical burn time remains consistently at 10 minutes, underlining the need for diligent sun protection. The UV Index begins to taper off in September, October, and November, settling back to 9 by November, before dropping further to 8 in December. While these later months still present a significant UV risk, they are notably less intense than the summer months, allowing for a safer outdoor experience as UV levels decline. Overall, understanding the UV Index is crucial for those frequenting this sun-drenched region, emphasizing the necessity for protective measures during peak hours.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in the Red Sea region of Sudan exhibits a consistent pattern, with relatively stable hours throughout the year. In January and February, the days provide approximately 11 hours of light, creating a balance that supports various outdoor activities. As spring approaches in March and April, daylight increases to 12 hours, allowing for extended periods of sunshine and exploration. This upward trend continues into May and June, where daylight reaches 13 hours, marking the peak of the year. The consistent daylight during these months fosters an environment conducive to both agriculture and tourism.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight duration begins to gradually decline. July retains the 13-hour length, but this diminishes to 12 hours by August and September. The shift continues in October and November, returning to 11 hours of daylight, before tapering off further to 10 hours in December. Despite these variations, the Red Sea region maintains a relatively generous amount of daylight year-round, which not only impacts lifestyle and activities but also underscores the area's dynamic climatic conditions. The steady availability of daylight enhances the region's appeal as a travel and leisure destination amidst its stunning natural beauty.
The climate in Gebeit, Sudan, is characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall throughout the year. January temperatures range from a chilly 6°C (43°F) at night to a scorching 36°C (96°F) during the day, while the hottest months of May and June see maximums reaching up to 44°C (112°F). Precipitation is scarce, with most months receiving less than 10 mm of rain; May records the highest at just 7 mm. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in May with 371 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Gebeit climate.
Port Sudan experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall throughout the year. January begins with mild temperatures averaging around 23°C (74°F), while the peak heat occurs in July, reaching up to 34°C (94°F) with maximums of 44°C (112°F). Precipitation is scarce, with the majority falling between November and January, peaking at 55 mm (2.2 in) in November. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in May when it records up to 366 hours of sun. For more details, visit Port Sudan climate.
Sawakin, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and limited rainfall. January sees mild temperatures averaging 22°C (71°F), while the summer months from June to August peak at average highs around 34°C (93°F). Rainfall is minimal, with January and November being the wettest months, receiving 86 mm and 106 mm respectively. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with May boasting the highest at 365 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sawakin climate.
Tokar, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate characterized by high temperatures and low precipitation throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 25°C (78°F) in January to a peak of 37°C (98°F) in July, with maximums reaching up to 47°C (117°F) during the hottest months. Rainfall is minimal, with the majority occurring between November and January, peaking at 49 mm (1.9 in) in December. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in late spring, with May recording the highest at 363 hours. For more detailed insights, visit Tokar climate.
In conclusion, the climatic conditions of the Red Sea region in Sudan reveal a fascinating interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV index, and daylight duration that shapes both the environment and the experiences of its inhabitants. The region showcases extreme temperature variations, with scorching summer months contrasted by milder winters, while precipitation remains minimal, primarily concentrated in late autumn and winter. Moreover, the abundance of sunshine, combined with high UV indexes, underscores the importance of sun safety measures for residents and visitors alike. As daylight duration subtly shifts through the seasons, the region continues to maintain a vibrant atmosphere, making it an intriguing destination for those seeking to explore its unique landscape and rich cultural heritage. Ultimately, understanding these climatic trends is crucial for fostering sustainable practices and enhancing the quality of life in this beautiful yet challenging desert environment.