Last updated: July 31, 2025
The climate of Western Sahara is characterized by its stark contrasts and minimal precipitation. With a maximum temperature soaring up to 39°C (103°F) in July and a cooler minimum in December dropping to 9°C (48°F), the region experiences significant seasonal variations. The average temperature throughout the year hovers around 20°C (68°F), creating a predominantly arid environment. Rainfall is scarce, averaging only 36 mm (1.4 in) annually, with most months witnessing little to no precipitation—0 days in July, August, and September, for instance. Even during the wetter months, such as October, there are only 1 or 2 days of rain, underscoring the desert's dryness. Humidity levels add another layer, peaking at an average maximum of 76% in July and dipping to 56% in January. This climatic profile highlights the region's unique desert ecosystem, shaped by extreme temperatures and limited moisture.
The climate of Western Sahara is predominantly characterized by the BWh Köppen-Geiger classification, indicating a hot desert climate. This region experiences extremely arid conditions, with average annual precipitation typically falling below 250 mm. Temperatures can soar during the day, often exceeding 40°C in summer, while nights can be significantly cooler. The lack of vegetation and high evaporation rates contribute to the stark, barren landscapes that define this unique environment, making it a striking example of the resilience of life in harsh climates.
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In Western Sahara, monthly temperatures reveal a distinct progression through the year. January starts off relatively cool, with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and maxing out at 29°C (84°F). As February rolls in, there's a slight increase, reaching a peak of 31°C (89°F). The trend continues through March and April, where temperatures climb higher, with April recording an impressive 36°C (97°F). July and August signify the height of summer, where the max temperatures consistently hit 39°C (102°F), creating a sweltering atmosphere. However, as the year progresses into September and October, a gradual cooling begins, dropping to a maximum of 39°C in October but also showcasing lower night temperatures. The cycle completes with the return of cooler weather in November and December, where lows revert to 9°C (48°F), creating a striking contrast to the scorching summer months. Overall, Western Sahara’s temperatures reflect a broad swing from cool crispness to intense summer heat, providing a dynamic climate each month.
The precipitation patterns in Western Sahara reveal a starkly dry climate, punctuated by occasional rainfall primarily in the autumn months. January and February are the only times when measurable rain occurs, with February recording the highest amount at 6 mm over just one day. Interestingly, while the fall months of October and November bring a slight uptick in precipitation—9 mm and 3 mm, respectively—these amounts are still minimal compared to many other regions. Notably, rainfall is virtually absent during the summer and spring months, with May, June, July, and August each receiving a mere 1 mm. This pattern illustrates not just the scarcity of rain, but also the extreme aridity that characterizes this desert landscape, making the sporadic rains of autumn a significant climatic event.
In Western Sahara, humidity levels exhibit a notable trend throughout the year, gradually increasing from a moderate 56% in January to a peak of 76% in July. As the year progresses into the warmer months, humidity rises steadily, reaching its highest point in mid-summer before slightly declining to 69% by October. The return of cooler months sees humidity decrease again, with levels descending to 57% in December. This seasonal ebb and flow underscores the region's transition from arid conditions in winter to a more humid environment in the summer, creating a distinctive climate rhythm that characterizes Western Sahara.
The UV Index in Western Sahara demonstrates a clear upward trend as the year progresses, peaking during the summer months. In January, the UV Index starts at a moderate 7 with a high exposure category and a burn time of 25 minutes. However, as spring approaches, the index rises sharply—February reaches an 8, and by March, it escalates to an alarming 11, classified as extreme. This extreme level continues through April and May, reaching a peak of 13 in both months, which necessitates a mere 10-minute burn time. As summer gives way to autumn, the UV Index begins to soften slightly, dropping to 10 in October and finally returning to 7 by December. Overall, the gradual increase in UV exposure underscores the importance of sun protection during the warmer months, especially when the index exceeds 11.
UV Risk Categories
In Western Sahara, sunshine reigns supreme, with monthly hours peaking during the spring and early summer. Starting with 241 hours in January, the brightness steadily escalates, reaching a dazzling 371 hours in May. This trend highlights the region's transformation into a sun-soaked paradise, with nearly every month basking in over 300 hours of sunlight. Even as summer wanes, the golden rays persist, maintaining impressive totals of 363 hours in August and 334 hours in September. By November, there's a slight dip to 298 hours, yet December wraps up the year with a solid 300 hours. Overall, Western Sahara boasts a remarkable consistency in sunshine, ensuring bright days year-round.
When it comes to sunny weather in Western Sahara, there's a clear trend that emerges throughout the year. From December's peak of 82% to February's solid 78%, the winter months are particularly bright. As the seasons transition into spring, the likelihood of sun slightly dips but remains robust, with April at 68% and March just falling a tad lower at 71%. The summer months, notably July and August, shine brightly with chances reaching 77% and 79%, respectively, making them prime times for sun-seekers. Interestingly, September holds the highest chance of sun at 80% before a gradual decline into the cooler months, where November sees a drop to 58%. Overall, Western Sahara boasts a predominantly sunny disposition throughout the year, making it a golden destination for those chasing the sun.
In Western Sahara, the daylight hours gradually evolve with the changing seasons, showcasing a distinct trend throughout the year. Starting in January, the daylight begins at a modest 10 hours, but as February progresses, it nudges up to 11 hours, signaling the approach of spring. The trend accelerates in March and April, reaching a peak of 12 hours. As May transitions into summer, daylight extends to a generous 13 hours, remaining consistent through August. However, a gradual decline begins in September, where the hours of daylight wane back to 12, followed by a further reduction in October and November, both reverting to 10 hours by the arrival of winter in December. This rhythmic cycle highlights the interplay of seasons, offering a dynamic landscape of light that shapes daily life in this arid region.
The climate of Western Sahara presents a striking contrast between extreme temperatures and minimal precipitation, creating a unique environment. From January to March, temperatures begin to rise gradually, with averages shifting from a comfortable 17°C (63°F) to a warmer 18°C (65°F), yet with cooler nighttime lows. As April approaches, temperature peaks reach up to 36°C (97°F), while humidity levels start to climb, peaking in the summer months of July and August, where they hit around 76%. Despite these steamy conditions, precipitation is exceedingly rare, averaging merely one day a month. This trend of scant rain continues into the fall, highlighting the arid nature of the region. As the year winds down, temperatures cool again, culminating in December with averages dropping back to 18°C (65°F), revealing the cyclical nature of the climate. Overall, Western Sahara exemplifies a strikingly arid landscape characterized by fluctuating temperatures and low humidity, shaping a resilient ecosystem that thrives in challenging conditions.