Last updated: January 18, 2025
Gafsa, Tunisia, is characterized by a BWh (arid hot) climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. The region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, with a minimum recorded temperature of -1°C (30°F) in January, highlighting the coldest peaks of winter. As the seasons transition, average temperatures rise to a comfortable 20°C (69°F), providing a moderate climate for much of the year. However, the summer months bring sizzling heat, with maximum temperatures soaring to a scorching 46°C (115°F) in July. This unique climatic profile underscores the region's arid conditions, influenced by its geographical characteristics and seasonal variations.
Gafsa, Tunisia, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature trends that reflect its arid climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, experience cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -1°C (30°F) and -1°C (31°F), respectively, while daily averages remain around 10°C (50°F) to 12°C (54°F). As spring unfolds, temperatures gradually rise; by March, the daily average reaches 15°C (58°F), and maximum temperatures approach 31°C (89°F). This warming trend continues into the summer, where July and August display the hottest extremes, with daily averages soaring to 32°C (89°F) and 31°C (88°F), alongside peak recordings of 46°C (115°F). The transition into autumn brings a gradual cooling, with September and October showcasing more moderate averages of 27°C (81°F) and 21°C (70°F) before winter returns. Overall, Gafsa's temperature patterns illustrate a typical Mediterranean transition from cool winters to blistering summers, punctuated by brief yet warm springs and autumns.
In the region of Gafsa, Tunisia, the temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year. In January, As Sanad experiences a minimum of -1°C (31°F), while Gafsa sees the same low of -1°C (30°F) and Metlaoui has a slightly higher minimum of 0°C (32°F). During the peak of summer in July, Metlaoui records the highest maximum temperature at 46°C (115°F), followed closely by Gafsa and As Sanad, which both reach a maximum of 45°C (113°F). For more detailed monthly temperatures, you can check monthly temperatures in As Sanad, monthly temperatures in Metlaoui, and monthly temperatures in Gafsa.
Gafsa, Tunisia, experiences low and variable precipitation throughout the year. The wettest months are typically winter and autumn, with March and November recording 20 mm (0.8 in) each, reflecting the peak of the rainy season. February follows closely with 13 mm (0.5 in), while April and October also contribute modest amounts of rainfall at 19 mm (0.7 in) and 15 mm (0.6 in), respectively. The year sees only a handful of rainy days, with March having the highest frequency at 3 days.
As summer approaches, precipitation becomes scarce, particularly in June and July when only 3 mm (0.1 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in) are recorded, and no measurable rainfall occurs during those months. August brings a slight increase to 8 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day of rain. The pattern indicates a pronounced dry season during the hottest months, contributing to Gafsa's overall arid climate. The annual cycle showcases a clear contrast between the wetter winter and drier summer months, with limited but critical rainfall maintaining the region's ecosystem.
In Gafsa, Tunisia, the sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with a steady increase in sunlight hours as the year progresses. Starting from January, where the region receives 232 hours of sunshine, the month-to-month trend reveals significant growth. By March, the total rises to 332 hours, and this upward trajectory continues into the warmer months, peaking in July with an impressive 396 hours of bright sunshine. May and June also boast considerable sunshine, with 381 and 382 hours respectively, creating an enviable stretch of sunny days during the late spring and early summer.
As summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper, yet remain substantial. August retains 376 hours, indicating that the sunny season extends well into late summer. However, by September, the hours decrease to 336, and further dip in October to 319 hours. The months of November and December reflect the annual low, with 280 and 281 hours, respectively, highlighting the region's reduced sunlight during the winter months. Overall, Gafsa showcases a sunny climate that markedly shifts from the cooler, shorter days of winter to the long, bright days characteristic of summer.
In Gafsa, Tunisia, the UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, reflecting the region's climatic variations and sun exposure. During the winter months of January and December, the UV Index is relatively low at 4, classified as moderate, which allows for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of 30 minutes. As the year transitions into spring, the UV Index steadily climbs, reaching 6 in February and peaking at 7 in March, both classified as high. This increase indicates a growing need for sun protection, as the burn time reduces to 25 minutes.
The summer months present the most intense exposure, with June and July recording a UV Index of 12, categorized as extreme, necessitating cautious outdoor behavior and sun protection measures within just 10 minutes of exposure. This extreme level of UV radiation persists into August, registering at 11, before tapering slightly in September and October to 8, both marked as very high. As autumn arrives, the UV Index gradually decreases, returning to moderate levels in November and December, which provides a slight reprieve from the intensity of summer sun. These seasonal changes underscore the importance of awareness and protection against UV radiation, particularly during the scorching summer months.
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In Gafsa, Tunisia, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal shifts typical of the region. During the cold winter months of January and February, residents can expect around 10 hours of daylight. As spring approaches in March, daylight begins to increase, reaching 11 hours, and by April, it expands further to 13 hours. This gradual lengthening of days continues into May, where daylight remains steady at 13 hours, paving the way for a summer characterized by longer, sunnier days.
The peak of daylight occurs in June and July, with both months offering an impressive 14 hours of illumination. Following this summer peak, daylight duration begins to gradually decrease, shifting to 13 hours in August and tapering off to 12 hours in September. As autumn settles in, the trend continues, leading to 11 hours in October, and eventually down to 10 hours in November. The year closes with shorter days in December, providing just 9 hours of daylight. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of sunlight exposure in Gafsa, influencing lifestyle and activities throughout the seasons.
The climate in Ar Rudayyif, Tunisia, is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) in January to scorching highs of 45°C (113°F) in July. Precipitation is relatively low, with the wettest months being March and April, averaging around 20-21 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 395 hours, contributing to its dry and sunny summers. For more detailed information, visit Ar Rudayyif climate.
As Sanad, Tunisia experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The hottest months are July and August, with average temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F) and maximums often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winter months like January and December are cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is relatively low, peaking in March and November, while sunshine is abundant throughout the year, especially during summer. For more detailed climate information, visit As Sanad climate.
Gafsa, Tunisia experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. January temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while July sees sweltering highs of up to 45°C (113°F). Precipitation is minimal, with the wettest months being March and April, averaging around 18-19 mm (0.7 in). Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 397 hours, making it an ideal destination for sun seekers. For more details, visit Gafsa climate.
Metlaoui, Tunisia experiences a hot desert climate with substantial temperature variations throughout the year. January temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) to 25°C (78°F), rising to a peak in July and August where highs reach up to 46°C (115°F). Precipitation is minimal, with July being particularly dry, receiving just 1 mm of rain, while the late autumn months see slightly higher rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer, with July averaging 395 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Metlaoui climate.
In summary, Gafsa, Tunisia, presents a compelling climatic profile characterized by its arid conditions, distinct seasonal temperature trends, varying precipitation patterns, high UV Index, and fluctuating daylight duration. The region experiences scorching summers with extreme UV levels, requiring inhabitants and visitors alike to prioritize sun safety during these months. Conversely, the cooler winter months offer moderate UV exposure and shorter daylight hours, setting the stage for a different outdoor experience. Understanding these climatic elements is essential for optimizing activities and health practices, whether basking in the abundant sunshine of summer or enjoying the milder days of spring and autumn. Overall, Gafsa's climate invites both admiration and respect for its remarkable extremes and seasonal shifts.