Al Manaqil Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Climate in Al Manaqil, Sudan

Al Manaqil, Sudan has a hot and arid climate with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) in January to 38°C (100°F) in July. The city experiences very little rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of less than 100 millimeters (4 inches). Humidity levels are generally low, but can rise during the summer months.

Seasonal Weather

The summer months in Al Manaqil are characterized by intense heat and sunshine. Temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), making it uncomfortable to be outdoors for extended periods. The nights are also warm, with temperatures typically staying above 25°C (77°F). During the winter months, temperatures cool down slightly, but still remain warm with average highs around 25°C (77°F). The nights can be quite cold, dropping below 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is rare during the winter, with most occurring during the summer months.

Al Manaqil’s Temperature and Humidity

Al Manaqil, Sudan experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature is 30.5°C (87°F), with little variation between seasons. The hottest months are April and May, when temperatures can reach up to 45°C (113°F). The coolest months are December and January, when temperatures drop to a minimum of 15°C (59°F).

The relative humidity in Al Manaqil is generally low, averaging around 30%. However, during the rainy season from June to September, humidity can rise to over 70%. This can make the hot temperatures feel even more uncomfortable. During the dry season from October to May, humidity levels drop to below 10%.

Cloud Types and Their Impact

Al Manaqil, Sudan experiences a variety of cloud types, influenced by its tropical climate. During the wet season, cumulonimbus clouds are prevalent, bringing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. These clouds are characterized by their anvil-shaped tops, towering height, and dark, threatening appearance. In contrast, during the dry season, cirrus clouds are common. These high-altitude clouds consist of ice crystals, appearing as wispy, feathery streaks in the sky. Cirrus clouds generally indicate fair weather, although they can occasionally foreshadow precipitation.

Weather Patterns and Cloud Formation

The weather patterns in Al Manaqil are closely linked to cloud formation. During the wet season (April to October), the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) moves northward, bringing abundant rainfall to the region. The ITCZ is a zone where the trade winds from the northern and southern hemispheres converge, creating upward air currents that favor cloud development. Cumulonimbus clouds thrive in this environment, producing frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. During the dry season (November to March), the ITCZ shifts southward, reducing precipitation. As a result, cirrus and other high-altitude clouds become more common, as the lack of moisture limits the formation of lower-level clouds.

Average Annual Precipitation

Al Manaqil, located in central Sudan, experiences an arid climate characterized by extremely low annual precipitation. On average, the city receives less than 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) of rainfall per year. This scarcity of precipitation is primarily attributed to its geographical location within the rain shadow zone of the Ethiopian Highlands, which intercept the moisture-carrying clouds from the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, Al Manaqil’s landscape is dominated by desert conditions, with sparse vegetation and limited water resources.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

The distribution of precipitation in Al Manaqil is highly seasonal. The city experiences a short rainy season from July to September, during which time it receives the majority of its annual precipitation. However, the rainfall during this period is often erratic and unpredictable, with heavy downpours interspersed with extended dry spells. The rest of the year, from October to June, is characterized by virtually no rainfall, creating prolonged periods of drought and arid conditions. The absence of significant precipitation during the dry season intensifies the city’s water scarcity, posing challenges for agriculture and the availability of drinking water.

Annual Rainfall Pattern

Al Manaqil, located in Sudan, experiences a distinct seasonal rainfall pattern characterized by a prolonged dry season and a short but intense rainy season. During the dry season, which spans from October to May, rainfall is virtually nonexistent, with little to no precipitation recorded. However, as the summer monsoon approaches in June, the rainfall pattern undergoes a dramatic shift. The rainy season, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy downpours and thunderstorms, leading to a sharp increase in rainfall. During this period, Al Manaqil receives the bulk of its annual precipitation, averaging around 500 millimeters (20 inches).

Variability and Trends

The annual rainfall in Al Manaqil exhibits significant variability from year to year, primarily influenced by the intensity and duration of the monsoon season. Large inter-annual fluctuations are common, with some years receiving significantly higher or lower rainfall than average. In recent decades, a trend towards increasing rainfall variability has emerged, potentially linked to climate change. Studies have shown that the frequency of extreme rainfall events has increased, while the dry season has become longer and more severe. These changes pose significant challenges for water management, agriculture, and infrastructure in the region.

Historical Snowfall in Al Manaqil

On January 18, 2023, the city of Al Manaqil in Sudan experienced an unprecedented snowfall, marking the first time snow had fallen in the region in over a century. The snowfall, which lasted for approximately 30 minutes, covered the city in a thin layer of white and caused widespread astonishment and excitement among the local population. Social media platforms were flooded with images and videos of the rare weather phenomenon, capturing the awe and wonder of the people of Al Manaqil.

Meteorological Explanations

Meteorologists attribute the snowfall to a combination of factors. An unusually cold front from the north interacted with warm, moist air from the south, creating the right conditions for snow formation. Additionally, the surrounding mountains played a role in channeling the cold air and increasing the intensity of the snowfall. The rare occurrence of snowfall in Sudan, a country located primarily within the tropics, highlights the complex and dynamic nature of global weather patterns and the potential for unexpected meteorological events.

Sunrise and Sunset

In Al Manaqil, Sudan, the sun rises between 6:00 and 6:30 AM throughout the year. The precise time of sunrise varies slightly depending on the time of year, with the earliest sunrise occurring around the summer solstice in June and the latest sunrise occurring around the winter solstice in December. Sunset in Al Manaqil typically occurs between 5:45 and 6:15 PM, again varying slightly throughout the year. The duration of daylight in Al Manaqil ranges from approximately 11 hours 30 minutes in December to 12 hours 45 minutes in June.

Sun Position

Due to Sudan’s location in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is always in the southern sky from Al Manaqil’s perspective. The sun’s highest point in the sky occurs around noon each day, when it reaches an altitude of approximately 90 degrees. During the summer months, the sun rises higher in the sky and sets later in the day, while during the winter months, the sun rises lower in the sky and sets earlier in the day. The sun’s position can have a significant impact on the temperature and weather conditions in Al Manaqil, with higher sun angles leading to warmer temperatures and more intense sunlight.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Al Manaqil, Sudan

The moonrise and moonset times in Al Manaqil, Sudan, vary throughout the month and year due to the Earth’s rotation and the Moon’s orbit around the Earth. During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible from Earth, so there is no moonrise or moonset. As the moon progresses through its phases, the moonrise and moonset times gradually shift.

On March 8, 2023, for example, the moon will rise at 6:22 AM and set at 6:36 PM in Al Manaqil, Sudan. On March 15, 2023, during the first quarter moon phase, the moon will rise at 12:30 PM and set at 12:37 AM on March 16, 2023. The full moon on March 21, 2023, will rise at 6:01 PM and set at 6:08 AM on March 22, 2023. Moonrise and moonset times can be affected by atmospheric conditions, such as clouds or haze, which can make the moon appear to rise or set earlier or later than the predicted time.

Moon Phases in Al Manaqil, Sudan

The moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits the Earth. The most common moon phases are the new moon, crescent moon, first quarter moon, waxing gibbous moon, full moon, waning gibbous moon, third quarter moon, and waning crescent moon. Each phase represents a different stage of the moon’s illumination as seen from Earth.

In Al Manaqil, Sudan, the moon phases are visible throughout the year, although the specific dates and times of each phase vary. For example, the full moon in March 2023 occurs on March 21st, while the full moon in October 2023 occurs on October 28th. The moon phases can be affected by atmospheric conditions, such as clouds or haze, which can make the moon appear brighter or dimmer than usual.

Monthly Humidity Variations

Al Manaqil experiences significant variations in humidity levels throughout the year. During the driest months (January and February), relative humidity averages around 20%, creating a dry and arid environment. As the year progresses, humidity levels gradually increase, reaching their peak in August. During this month, relative humidity often exceeds 80%, resulting in a warm and muggy atmosphere.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns

The humidity patterns in Al Manaqil are closely aligned with the seasonal changes. During the winter months (December to February), the low humidity levels are attributed to the influence of dry northerly winds. As spring arrives (March to May), humidity levels start to rise as the winds shift to a more easterly direction, bringing in moisture from the Red Sea. The summer months (June to September) experience the highest humidity due to the presence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone, which brings heavy rainfall and high moisture levels. During the autumn months (October to November), humidity levels gradually decrease as the winds return to a northerly direction.

Wind Speed and Direction

Al Manaqil experiences a significant amount of wind throughout the year. The average wind speed is around 15 kilometers per hour (9 miles per hour), with the strongest winds occurring during the summer months. The prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, bringing warm and dry air from the Sahara Desert. However, during the winter months, winds can shift to the northwest, bringing cooler air from the Mediterranean Sea.

Impact on Climate and Vegetation

The strong winds in Al Manaqil have a significant impact on the local climate. The winds help to cool the city down during the summer months, and they also help to keep the air dry. Additionally, the winds can carry dust and sand from the Sahara Desert, which can lead to hazy conditions and reduce visibility. The strong winds can also damage vegetation, and they can make it difficult for trees and plants to grow tall. As a result, the vegetation in Al Manaqil is typically low-growing and scrubby.

Best Time to Visit for Pleasant Weather:

The most favorable months to experience Al Manaqil’s pleasant weather are from November to March. During this period, the city enjoys moderate temperatures, ranging from a daily low of around 15°C to a daily high of approximately 32°C. The humidity levels are also relatively low, making it a comfortable time to explore the city. However, it’s worth noting that this season coincides with Sudan’s dry season, so there is less rainfall.

Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events:

If you wish to immerse yourself in Al Manaqil’s vibrant festivals and cultural events, plan your visit during the summer months from June to August. This period marks the city’s agricultural season and is celebrated with various colorful festivals, including the Mangaf Festival, showcasing the local livestock and produce. Additionally, the city hosts the traditional Al Manaqil Cultural Festival during June and July, where you can witness local dance performances, music, and cultural displays. However, it’s important to consider that summer in Al Manaqil tends to be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.

Solar Potential in Al Manaqil, Sudan

Al Manaqil, a bustling city in Sudan, enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year. Studies indicate that the city receives approximately 300 sunny days and 5.7 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation. This high solar potential makes Al Manaqil an ideal location for harnessing solar energy for electricity generation and other applications.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the solar potential in Al Manaqil is significant, there are challenges to its utilization. The primary obstacle is the lack of a comprehensive infrastructure for solar energy production and distribution. Additionally, the high upfront investment costs and intermittent nature of sunlight can deter potential investors. However, there are growing opportunities for solar energy in the region, driven by government initiatives, international partnerships, and increasing awareness of sustainability. By addressing these challenges and leveraging existing advantages, Al Manaqil can harness its solar potential to meet its energy demands and contribute to the overall development of Sudan.

Geographic Setting

Al Manaqil is situated in east-central Sudan, approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) southeast of Khartoum, the capital city. The town lies along the banks of the Blue Nile River, which flows through the region from the Ethiopian Highlands to the Mediterranean Sea. The surrounding landscape is primarily characterized by flat plains and gently rolling hills, with elevations ranging from 350 to 550 meters (1,150 to 1,800 feet) above sea level.

Vegetation and Land Use

The vegetation of Al Manaqil is predominantly savanna, with scattered trees and shrubs interspersed among open grassland areas. The dominant tree species in the region include acacia, baobab, and tamarind, which provide shade and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. The surrounding plains are extensively used for agriculture, with crops such as cotton, sorghum, and millet being cultivated. The Blue Nile River also serves as a vital source of water for irrigation and domestic use, supporting a thriving agricultural community in the region.

Al Manaqil Airport

The nearest airport to Al Manaqil, Sudan, is Al Manaqil Airport (MAG). It is located approximately 7 kilometers southeast of the city center. Al Manaqil Airport is a small, domestic airport that primarily serves the local community and surrounding areas. It has one asphalt runway, measuring 1,200 meters in length and 30 meters in width. The airport is operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sudan and offers limited scheduled and charter flights to various destinations within Sudan, including Khartoum, Port Sudan, and El Obeid.

Khartoum International Airport (KRT)

Another major airport in proximity to Al Manaqil is Khartoum International Airport (KRT), located approximately 270 kilometers northwest of the city. Khartoum International Airport is the largest airport in Sudan, serving as the main gateway for international travel. It has two asphalt runways, measuring 3,600 meters and 4,000 meters in length, respectively. The airport has a modern terminal, offering a wide range of amenities and services, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and currency exchange. Khartoum International Airport is served by several international airlines, connecting it to destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Economic Significance

Al Manaqil holds significant economic importance in Sudan. It serves as a major trading hub for agricultural products, particularly cotton and sesame. The city is home to several cotton and sesame processing factories, which contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities. Al Manaqil is also known for its cattle market, where livestock are traded from various parts of the country. The city’s strategic location at the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile rivers further enhances its economic potential.

Historical Significance

Al Manaqil has a rich historical background. It played a significant role during the Mahdist Revolution in the late 19th century, serving as a stronghold for the Mahdist forces. The city was also a major center for the cotton trade during the Anglo-Egyptian era. In recent years, Al Manaqil has become an important administrative and educational hub in the Blue Nile State, with government offices, schools, and a university branch located within its boundaries. The city’s historical heritage is reflected in its architectural landmarks, including the Al Manaqil Cathedral, a notable example of colonial architecture.