Al Mijlad Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Temperature

Al Mijlad, Sudan enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, with an average annual temperature around 30°C (86°F). The hottest months are May and June, with average temperatures peaking at 35°C (95°F). Temperatures begin to drop in July, and by December, they reach their lowest point at around 22°C (72°F).

Rainfall

Rainfall in Al Mijlad is highly seasonal, with most precipitation occurring during the wet season, which runs from June to October. During this time, heavy downpours are common, and monthly rainfall can exceed 100mm. The dry season, from November to May, is characterized by very little rainfall, with monthly totals typically below 5mm.

Climate of Al Mijlad, Sudan

Al Mijlad, a city in central Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by scorching temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature is a staggering 32.5°C (90.5°F), with minimal seasonal variations. During the hottest months, May to September, temperatures routinely soar above 40°C (104°F), making it an extremely oppressive and uncomfortable period. Conversely, the cooler months from November to February offer some respite, with average temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Rainfall Patterns and Humidity Levels

Al Mijlad receives an annual average of just 120 mm (4.7 inches) of rainfall, categorizing it as an arid region. The vast majority of this precipitation occurs during the short rainy season, which typically runs from July to September. During this period, occasional thunderstorms can bring heavy downpours, temporarily elevating humidity levels. However, for most of the year, humidity remains low, with average relative humidity ranging between 20% and 30%. As a result, the air in Al Mijlad feels exceptionally dry and can be irritating to the skin and respiratory system.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Al Mijlad, Sudan, experiences variable cloud cover throughout the year. During the dry season, from November to April, skies are typically clear with minimal cloud cover. This period is characterized by low humidity and northeasterly winds, which inhibit cloud formation. However, during the wet season, from May to October, the arrival of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) brings increased moisture and cloudiness. Convective clouds, such as cumulonimbus, develop and produce frequent showers and thunderstorms. The heaviest rainfall occurs from July to September, coinciding with the peak of the wet season.

Types of Clouds

A variety of cloud types can be observed in Al Mijlad. During the dry season, cirrus clouds are common, appearing as feathery trails high in the sky. As the wet season approaches, cumulus clouds begin to form, indicating the increasing presence of moisture. Cumulus clouds can develop into cumulonimbus clouds, which are massive, anvil-shaped clouds responsible for producing thunderstorms. Stratus clouds, characterized by a uniform gray layer, are also observed during the wet season, bringing overcast conditions and drizzle. Additionally, stratocumulus clouds, a combination of stratus and cumulus clouds, may appear as a patchy layer or rolls of clouds.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Al Mijlad, Sudan, experiences a distinct rainy season that typically begins in May and lasts through September. During this period, the city receives the majority of its annual rainfall, which averages around 1,000 millimeters (mm). The peak of the rainy season occurs in July and August, when the city receives over 300 mm of rain per month. The intensity and duration of the rainfall can vary significantly from year to year, leading to occasional droughts and flooding.

Seasonal Variations in Precipitation

The remaining months of the year in Al Mijlad are characterized by very low precipitation. From October to April, the city typically receives less than 50 mm of rain combined. This extended dry season results in arid conditions and limited vegetation. During these months, temperatures often rise above 40 degrees Celsius, exacerbating the lack of water availability and posing challenges for agriculture and human activities. The transition from the rainy season to the dry season and vice versa is often marked by intense thunderstorms and flash floods, which can disrupt infrastructure and transportation.

Seasonal Patterns

Al Mijlad, Sudan, experiences distinct seasonal rainfall patterns. The wet season typically spans from July to October, with August and September receiving the highest precipitation. During this period, the city can see heavy rainfall, with monthly averages exceeding 100 millimeters. The dry season extends from November to June, with minimal precipitation and average monthly rainfall below 5 millimeters.

Variability and Extremes

The annual rainfall in Al Mijlad varies significantly from year to year. While the average annual rainfall is approximately 300 millimeters, some years have witnessed extreme rainfall events, leading to floods and infrastructure damage. Conversely, drought conditions can occur during extended dry spells, resulting in water scarcity and agricultural losses. The city’s location within the Sahel region, a semi-arid zone characterized by unpredictable rainfall patterns, contributes to this variability.

Historical Snowfall Event

On December 30, 2020, the town of Al Mijlad in northern Sudan experienced a rare and unexpected snowfall. This marked the first recorded snowfall in the area in nearly a century. The snowfall persisted for several hours, accumulating to a depth of a few centimeters. Residents and tourists alike were stunned by the unusual weather phenomenon, capturing the moment in photographs and videos that quickly spread across social media.

Scientific Explanation and Regional Impact

The snowfall in Al Mijlad was caused by an unseasonably cold air mass from the Mediterranean Sea that brought freezing temperatures and moisture to the region. This cold spell was part of a larger weather system that also affected other parts of Sudan, leading to uncharacteristically low temperatures across the country. The snowfall in Al Mijlad is a testament to the increasing variability and unpredictability of weather patterns in the face of climate change. While such events are still rare in Sudan, they may become more frequent in the future as global temperatures continue to rise.

Sunrise and Sunset in Al Mijlad

In Al Mijlad, Sudan, the sunrise and sunset times vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and the city’s location near the equator. During the summer months, the sun rises around 5:45 AM and sets around 6:15 PM, providing approximately 12 hours and 30 minutes of daylight. In the winter months, the sunrise occurs closer to 6:30 AM and sunset around 5:45 PM, resulting in approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. The duration of daylight gradually increases from the winter solstice in December to the summer solstice in June and decreases thereafter.

Solar Radiation and Insolation

Al Mijlad receives abundant solar radiation throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator and the region’s generally clear skies. The city experiences high levels of insolation, or the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. The average daily insolation in Al Mijlad during the summer months is approximately 6 kWh/m²/day, while during the winter months it drops to around 5 kWh/m²/day. This high solar radiation potential makes Al Mijlad an ideal location for harnessing solar energy and promoting sustainable development.

Moon’s Visibility in Al Mijlad, Sudan

The visibility of the moon in Al Mijlad, Sudan varies throughout the lunar cycle. During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible from Earth. As the moon waxes, it becomes visible in the western sky in the evenings. The best time to view the moon in Al Mijlad is during the full moon phase, when it is fully illuminated and visible throughout the night. During the waning moon phase, the moon’s visibility decreases until it is no longer visible from Earth.

Moon’s Influence on Al Mijlad’s Traditions

The moon’s cycle has a significant influence on the traditions and practices of the people of Al Mijlad. The Islamic calendar, which is based on lunar months, determines the dates of religious holidays and festivals. The moon’s phases are also used to guide agricultural activities, such as planting and harvesting crops. Traditional Sudanese beliefs associate the moon with fertility and prosperity, and certain rituals and ceremonies are performed during specific moon phases to bring good fortune and blessings.

Yearly Humidity Patterns

Al Mijlad, Sudan experiences significant humidity variations throughout the year. The wet season, spanning from May to October, is characterized by high humidity levels, averaging around 65-85%. This is due to the influx of moisture from the Indian Ocean, brought by the Southwest Monsoon. During this period, the air is heavy and muggy, with a noticeable decrease in visibility. In contrast, the dry season, from November to April, is significantly drier, with humidity levels dropping to an average of 30-45%. The absence of monsoon winds and the prevailing dry northerly winds contribute to this decrease in moisture.

Seasonal Humidity Fluctuations

Within the wet and dry seasons, humidity fluctuations occur. During the wet season, the highest humidity levels are observed in August and September, when they can exceed 85%. This is attributed to the peak rainfall and increased moisture content in the atmosphere. On the other hand, during the dry season, the lowest humidity levels occur in January and February, when they can drop below 30%. These periods are marked by clear skies, low rainfall, and dry winds. It is important to note that humidity levels can vary significantly from day to day, particularly during transitional periods between seasons.

Wind Speed

Al Mijlad, Sudan, is renowned for its strong winds. These winds are mostly driven by the seasonal changes in the atmospheric pressure and temperature gradients between the Sahara Desert to the north and the Red Sea to the east. During the summer months, when temperatures are high, the low-pressure zone over the Sahara draws in winds from the Red Sea, creating a northeasterly wind pattern. These winds can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour), bringing with them dust and sand from the desert.

Wind Direction

The wind direction in Al Mijlad is predominantly northeasterly throughout the year. However, during the winter months, when temperatures are cooler, the pressure gradient shifts, and winds become more variable. During this time, winds can blow from the north, east, or southeast, bringing in moisture from the Red Sea. These southerly winds often lead to precipitation, including rain and thunderstorms, which are more common during the winter months. Overall, the wind in Al Mijlad is characterized by its strong northeasterly flow during the summer and its more variable direction during the winter.

Best Time to Visit for Ideal Weather

The optimal time to visit Al Mijlad, Sudan, for the most pleasant weather is during the dry season, which spans from October to April. During this period, the temperatures are generally mild, with average highs ranging between 25-30°C (77-86°F) and lows between 15-20°C (59-68°F). Rainfall is minimal during this time, so visitors can enjoy clear skies and sunny days. The humidity levels are also relatively low, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors.

Best Time to Visit for Cultural Events

For those interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Al Mijlad, the best time to visit is during the annual Al Mijlad Cultural Festival, held in February or March. This vibrant festival showcases traditional Sudanese music, dance, and crafts, providing an immersive glimpse into the local culture. Additionally, travelers may consider visiting during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan or the Eid al-Fitr festival, which marks the end of Ramadan and offers a unique opportunity to observe local customs and traditions.

Solar Potential in Al Mijlad, Sudan

Al Mijlad, located in the northern region of Sudan, boasts an abundance of solar energy due to its strategic geographic position within the Nubian Desert. The region experiences high levels of solar irradiance throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar power generation. The annual average solar irradiance in Al Mijlad is estimated to be around 6.8 kWh/m2/day, which is significantly higher than the global average of 3.5 kWh/m2/day. This favorable solar climate presents a significant opportunity for sustainable energy development in the region.

Harnessing Solar Power in Al Mijlad

Recognizing the region’s solar potential, the Sudanese government and international development partners have initiated several projects to harness solar energy in Al Mijlad. One notable project is the Al Mijlad Solar Power Project, which has a capacity of 20 MW and is expected to generate around 40 GWh of electricity annually. This project is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s renewable energy portfolio and provide reliable electricity to the local community. Additionally, the use of solar power in Al Mijlad has the potential to reduce the region’s dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic growth through job creation and investment in the renewable energy sector.

Al Mijlad: Mountainous Landscape

Al Mijlad is distinguished by its rugged topography, characterized by a series of mountains and highlands. The Jabal Al Mijlad, located in the northern portion of the region, is the most prominent mountain range, with peaks soaring above 2,500 meters. These peaks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and provide a challenging terrain for hikers and climbers. The mountains of Al Mijlad play a significant role in the hydrology of the region, serving as the source of numerous streams and rivers.

Hills and Plateaus in Al Mijlad

Beyond the Jabal Al Mijlad, Al Mijlad also encompasses a vast expanse of hills and plateaus. These rolling hills provide grazing land for livestock and offer opportunities for agricultural activities. The plateaus, formed by ancient lava flows, create unique geological formations. The Erkowit Plateau, located in the eastern part of Al Mijlad, is known for its rugged terrain and ancient rock art. The hills and plateaus of Al Mijlad contribute to the region’s varied and captivating landscape.

El Fasher Airport (ELF)

El Fasher Airport is the closest airport to Al Mijlad, Sudan, located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. It serves as a regional airport for the Darfur region of Sudan and offers limited scheduled passenger flights. The airport is mainly used for military operations and occasional humanitarian flights.

Khartoum International Airport (KRT)

Khartoum International Airport is the primary international gateway to Sudan, located approximately 850 kilometers (530 miles) from Al Mijlad. It is the busiest airport in the country and offers a wider range of scheduled passenger flights to domestic and international destinations. Due to its distance from Al Mijlad, it is not considered a convenient option for air travel to the region.

Geography

Al Mijlad, located in central Sudan, along the banks of the White Nile, is known for its picturesque scenery and historical significance. The city is surrounded by vast plains, dotted with acacia trees and traditional Nubian villages. Its proximity to the White Nile provides access to water resources and transportation routes, contributing to its economic development. The fertile soil in the surrounding areas supports agriculture, with crops such as sorghum, millet, and sesame being cultivated.

History and Culture

Al Mijlad boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending Arab, Nubian, and Islamic influences. The city has been inhabited since ancient times, and its strategic location on the White Nile made it a vital center of trade and communication. In the 19th century, it became a major hub for the trans-Saharan slave trade, which left a lasting impact on its history. Today, Al Mijlad is known for its vibrant markets, traditional arts and crafts, and its annual festivals that showcase local culture and traditions. The city also houses several historic sites, including the ruins of an ancient Nubian temple and a 19th-century Turkish fort.