Last updated: January 18, 2025
Soqatra, Yemen, experiences a BWh climate classification, characterized by its arid conditions and notable temperature ranges. January marks the coldest month, with a minimum temperature of 20°C (69°F), while the average annual temperature hovers around a warm 26°C (79°F). The peak temperature occurs in May, reaching a maximum of 33°C (92°F). This steady warmth combined with minimal precipitation underscores the island's unique climatic profile, influencing both its ecosystems and human activities.
In Soqatra, Yemen, temperature patterns reveal a distinct seasonal progression characterized by gradually increasing warmth from winter to summer. January begins with cooler temperatures, averaging 23°C (75°F), before transitioning into milder conditions in February and March, where averages rise to 24°C (75°F) and 25°C (77°F), respectively. As the months progress into April and May, temperatures peak, with averages reaching 27°C (81°F) and 29°C (84°F), accompanied by the highest maximum readings of 32°C (89°F) and 33°C (92°F). The hotter months of June through September sustain the warmth, maintaining averages around 26-29°C (79-84°F), before temperatures gradually cool again in October and November. By December, the climate returns to a more temperate state, averaging 24°C (76°F). This seasonal cycle highlights the island's consistent warmth and gradual transitions, integral to its unique climatic identity.
In Hadibu, temperatures range from a minimum of 20°C (69°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in May, while in Qalansiyah, the minimum is slightly higher at 21°C (71°F) in January, with a similar maximum of 33°C (91°F) in May. For detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Hadibu and monthly temperatures in Qalansiyah.
Soqatra, Yemen, exhibits a highly variable precipitation pattern throughout the year, primarily characterized by minimal rainfall. In the early months, January and February receive only 3 mm (0.1 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, respectively, while early spring witnesses a slight increase, peaking at 8 mm (0.3 in) in March. The transition into the hotter months sees a significant uptick in rainfall, especially in May, which stands out dramatically with 67 mm (2.6 in). This marks the onset of the main precipitation period, contrasting sharply with the near-dry conditions experienced in the preceding months.
As summer approaches, rainfall dwindles heavily, with July and August registering virtually no precipitation. However, the latter part of the year brings a resurgence, indicating another peak in precipitation; October sees 19 mm (0.7 in), while November and December account for 36 mm (1.4 in) and 46 mm (1.8 in), respectively. The total number of rainy days remains quite low, with significant precipitation concentrated into just a handful of days, particularly in late spring and autumn, emphasizing the island’s arid climate alongside occasional bursts of moisture.
In Soqatra, Yemen, the sunshine duration reveals a significant seasonal trend, with a marked increase in hours from winter to summer. Beginning in January, the island enjoys around 260 hours of sunlight, which gradually rises through the following months. February and March see increases to 306 hours and 351 hours, respectively, indicating a steady transition toward sunnier days. The peak sunshine period occurs in May, where the island basks in an impressive 357 hours of sunlight, closely followed by April and June, which also maintain high totals of 350 hours and 335 hours.
As summer progresses, sunshine duration remains relatively stable, with July and August both clocking in at around 335–330 hours. This durability in sunlight underscores the island's consistent bright conditions. However, as autumn approaches, the hours gradually taper off; September records 329 hours, while October and November exhibit a decline, dropping to 342 hours and 321 hours, respectively. The variation in sunshine hours highlights the island's warm, sunny climate and provides a clear contrast between the bright, peak-season months and the more tempered conditions experienced in winter, making Soqatra an appealing destination for sun-seekers.
The UV Index in Soqatra, Yemen, exhibits consistently high levels throughout the year, necessitating caution for outdoor activities. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 10, categorized as very high, which emphasizes the need for protective measures with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, the UV levels escalate significantly, peaking at 14 in April, classified as extreme, along with a notably short burn time of merely 10 minutes. This pattern of elevated UV exposure continues, particularly during the late spring and summer months, where February, March, and April all consistently report extreme UV Index levels.
In the summer months, the UV Index maintains a high, yet slightly reduced range—11 to 12—from July through October, still requiring minimal sun exposure within a 10-minute window to prevent burns. As the year approaches its end, the levels begin to lower, with November and December dropping to 10 and 9 respectively, still categorized as very high. The persistent high UV Index throughout the year underscores the importance of sun safety, urging residents and visitors alike to adopt measures such as sunscreen and protective clothing to mitigate risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Soqatra, Yemen, daylight duration exhibits a relatively stable pattern throughout the year, with minor fluctuations that reflect the region's subtropical climate. From January to February, the island experiences 11 hours of daylight, maintaining this duration as the year begins. This consistency transitions into the spring months of March, April, May, and extending through the summer, where daylight extends to 12 hours. The extended daylight during these months enhances opportunities for outdoor activities, allowing residents and visitors to make the most of the sunny climate.
As autumn approaches, daylight duration gradually reverts to 11 hours by October and continues through November and December. This slight decrease in daylight hours is indicative of the seasonal shift marking the transition from summer to winter. Throughout the year, the persistence of approximately 11 to 12 hours of daylight reflects Soqatra's geographical position, making it a destination with ample sunlight that beautifully complements its warm climate, inviting exploration and engagement with the island's natural beauty.
The climate in Hadibu, Yemen, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 23°C (74°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in May. The hottest months are typically April through June, where maximum temperatures reach up to 33°C (92°F). Rainfall is minimal except for May, which experiences significant precipitation at 85 mm (3.3 in), while the summer months are predominantly dry. Sunshine is abundant, with the sunniest month, May, enjoying 357 hours of sunlight. More details can be found in the comprehensive guide on Hadibu climate.
Qalansiyah, Yemen experiences a warm climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Monthly average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in January to 29°C (85°F) in May, with peak temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F) in late spring. Precipitation varies, with a marked increase in May (49 mm) and notable rainfall in November (24 mm), while summer months tend to be drier. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with peak hours in May (357 hours) and relatively consistent sunshine throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Qalansiyah climate.
In conclusion, Soqatra, Yemen, stands out as a destination characterized by its warm temperatures, high UV Index, and ample daylight duration, creating a unique environment that appeals to sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The climatic patterns, marked by a consistent sunshine duration and exceptionally high UV levels during peak months, underscore the importance of sun safety for residents and visitors. With a balanced mix of arid conditions and seasonal variations in both precipitation and warmth, the island fosters rich ecosystems and diverse human activities. Thus, understanding Soqatra's climatic nuances enhances appreciation for its natural allure and encourages responsible engagement with its striking landscapes.