Al Mukalla Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Yemen
Temperature and Precipitation
Al Mukalla experiences an arid desert climate, characterized by year-round sweltering heat and extremely low precipitation. Temperatures remain consistently high throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). During the summer months (May to September), temperatures can soar to a scorching 40°C (104°F) or more. Precipitation is scarce, averaging only a few millimeters annually. Rainfall is typically sporadic and concentrated in the cooler months of January and February.
Humidity and Wind
Humidity levels in Al Mukalla are generally low, ranging from around 50% to 70% throughout the year. However, during the summer months, humidity can rise significantly, leading to uncomfortable and oppressive conditions. Strong winds are a common feature of Al Mukalla’s climate, particularly in the afternoon and evening. These winds can help to mitigate the heat and humidity, but they can also cause dust and sandstorms, especially during the dry season.
Seasonal Variations
Al Mukalla’s average temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year. During the hottest months, July and August, temperatures soar to an average high of around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), occasionally reaching peaks of over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Conversely, during the cooler months of December and January, temperatures drop to an average low of around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit), with nighttime temperatures sometimes dipping below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit).
Influence of Geography
The city’s coastal location plays a significant role in modulating its temperature. The proximity to the Arabian Sea brings in cool breezes that temper the otherwise higher temperatures. The presence of the surrounding mountains also acts as a barrier, blocking excessive heat from penetrating the city. As a result, Al Mukalla experiences relatively mild temperatures compared to other cities in the region, known for their scorching summer heat.
Cloud Formations
The skies over Al Mukalla, Yemen, are adorned with a diverse array of cloud formations, each bearing its own unique characteristics and significance. Cumulus clouds, with their puffy, cotton-like appearance, often dominate the daytime landscape during fair weather conditions. These clouds typically form at low altitudes and signify rising air currents. When these clouds grow larger and merge together, they can transform into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which are associated with thunderstorms and precipitation.
Role in Weather and Climate
Clouds play a crucial role in the weather and climate of Al Mukalla. They act as a shield, protecting the city from the harsh rays of the sun. During the hot summer months, clouds provide shade and reduce temperatures, making the weather more bearable. They also contribute to the formation of precipitation, such as rain and drizzle, which are essential for sustaining life and supporting agriculture in the region. Additionally, clouds influence atmospheric circulation patterns and affect the distribution of rainfall and temperature across Al Mukalla.
Average Precipitation
Al Mukalla experiences minimal precipitation throughout the year, making it an arid region. The average annual rainfall is approximately 140 millimeters (5.5 inches), with most precipitation occurring during the winter months from October to April. December and January are typically the wettest months, with an average rainfall of around 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) each. However, during extended drought periods, the region can receive even less precipitation, leading to water scarcity.
Seasonal Variations
Precipitation patterns in Al Mukalla vary significantly with the seasons. During the summer months, from May to September, the region experiences extremely dry conditions, with almost no rainfall recorded. Temperatures during this period can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), exacerbating the lack of moisture. In contrast, the winter months bring intermittent rainfall, providing some relief from the arid conditions. The intensity and duration of rainfall events can fluctuate, sometimes resulting in heavy downpours and flash floods.
Rainfall Patterns
Al Mukalla, located on the southern coast of Yemen, experiences a dry arid climate with low annual rainfall. The city is situated in a rain shadow zone, meaning it receives little moisture from the prevailing winds. The average annual rainfall is only about 110 mm (4.3 inches), with most of it occurring during the winter months from December to March. During the summer months, the city experiences very little rainfall, with extended periods of drought common.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change is expected to significantly impact rainfall patterns in Al Mukalla. As global temperatures rise, the region is likely to become even drier, with longer and more intense droughts. The increased evaporation due to higher temperatures will further reduce the amount of rainfall available. These changes have severe implications for the water security and agricultural productivity of the region. Moreover, extreme weather events, such as cyclones and floods, may become more frequent and unpredictable, adding to the challenges faced by the local population.
Historical Snowfall Event
Snowfall is an uncommon occurrence in the Yemeni city of Al Mukalla, situated on the Arabian Peninsula. However, on January 19, 2023, the city witnessed a rare and historic snowfall. The unusual weather phenomenon occurred after a cold front brought freezing temperatures and precipitation to the region. The snowfall quickly blanketed the city, creating a surreal winter wonderland amidst the typically arid landscape.
Impacts and Significance
The snowfall in Al Mukalla has had a significant impact on the local community. The cold temperatures and icy conditions have disrupted daily life, leading to road closures and power outages. Furthermore, the snowfall has coincided with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, exacerbating the challenges faced by displaced and vulnerable populations. For children, the snowfall has provided a rare opportunity for winter activities and joy amidst the ongoing hardships.
Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise and sunset times in Al Mukalla, Yemen, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and the city’s geographical location. During the summer months, the sun rises earlier and sets later, resulting in longer daylight hours. Conversely, during the winter months, the sun rises later and sets earlier, leading to shorter daylight hours. The average sunrise time in Al Mukalla is around 6:00 AM, while the average sunset time is around 6:00 PM. However, these times can shift by up to an hour depending on the time of year.
Sunlight Hours
Al Mukalla enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 3,500 hours of sunlight annually. The city experiences a distinct dry season that runs from April to October, during which rainfall is scarce and the sun shines almost uninterrupted for extended periods. The dry season is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and soaking up the sun’s rays. During the cooler months, from November to March, there is occasional rainfall, but the sun still makes an appearance most days, providing warmth and illumination to the city.
Moonrise and Moonset Times
In Al Mukalla, Yemen, the precise timings of moonrise and moonset vary throughout the month due to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun and the Moon’s orbit around the Earth. However, general patterns can be observed. Typically, the moon rises in the eastern sky shortly after sunset and sets in the western sky around sunrise. The exact timing of these events depends on the current phase of the Moon and its position in its orbit. During a full moon, the moon typically rises around sunset and sets around sunrise, remaining visible throughout the night. In contrast, during a new moon, the moon is not visible from Earth, as it is located between the Earth and the Sun.
Moon Phases
As the Moon orbits the Earth, its appearance from Al Mukalla, Yemen, changes over the course of a month, known as the lunar cycle. The cycle begins with a new moon, when the Moon is not visible from Earth. As the Moon moves in its orbit, it gradually becomes illuminated by the Sun, creating the waxing crescent and then the first-quarter moon. The cycle continues with the waxing gibbous moon, the full moon (when the entire face of the Moon is illuminated), and then the waning gibbous moon. Finally, the Moon transitions through the third-quarter moon and the waning crescent moon before returning to a new moon. The duration of each lunar phase varies slightly, but typically lasts around 2-3 days.
Seasonal Humidity Variations
Al Mukalla, situated on the southern coast of Yemen, experiences significant humidity variations throughout the year. During the hot and dry summer months from May to September, humidity levels typically hover around 60-70%, contributing to the discomforting heat. However, as the cooler and wetter winter months approach, humidity levels gradually increase, peaking in December and January at approximately 80-90%. This high humidity, coupled with the mild temperatures, often leads to a humid and oppressive atmosphere.
Impact on Daily Life and Health
The high humidity levels in Al Mukalla can have a noticeable impact on daily life and health. Excessive humidity can cause discomfort, leading to fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath. It can also exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies. Prolonged exposure to high humidity can also contribute to mold and mildew growth, which can worsen allergies and asthma symptoms. Additionally, the combination of high humidity and heat can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Residents of Al Mukalla are advised to take precautions during periods of high humidity, such as staying hydrated, wearing loose, breathable clothing, and minimizing outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Air conditioning and dehumidifiers can also be effective in reducing humidity levels indoors.
Wind Speed and Direction
Al Mukalla, located in southeastern Yemen, experiences varying wind speeds and directions throughout the year. During the summer months (April-September), the dominant wind direction is from the southwest, bringing with it warm and humid air from the Arabian Sea. These winds often reach speeds of 15-25 knots (28-46 km/h), creating a pleasant breeze that helps mitigate the intense summer heat.
In contrast, during the winter months (October-March), the prevailing wind direction shifts to the northeast, carrying cooler and drier air from the Arabian Peninsula. Wind speeds during this period are typically lower, averaging around 10-15 knots (19-28 km/h). The change in wind direction and speed contributes to cooler and more stable weather conditions in Al Mukalla during the winter.
Seasonal Impacts
The seasonal variation in wind patterns has a significant impact on the climate and daily life in Al Mukalla. The strong southwest winds during the summer months contribute to the city’s high humidity levels, making it feel even hotter than the actual temperature. These winds also stir up sand and dust, occasionally causing hazy conditions. During the winter, the cooler and less humid northeast winds provide a respite from the summer heat and improve air quality. The reduced wind speed also makes it more enjoyable to engage in outdoor activities, such as fishing and boat tours.
Summer Months: Extremely Hot and Humid
Al Mukalla experiences extremely hot and humid summer months, typically lasting from June to September. Temperatures can soar well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), making outdoor activities unbearable for most people. The humidity levels can also be oppressive, making it difficult to breathe and stay hydrated. While the summer months can be challenging to visit, they do offer some advantages such as fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.
Winter Months: Moderate and Pleasant
The winter months in Al Mukalla, from October to May, offer a more moderate and pleasant climate. Temperatures typically range from a comfortable 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity levels are also lower during this time, making it more enjoyable to explore the city and its surroundings. The winter months are generally considered the best time to visit Al Mukalla, as the weather is ideal for sightseeing, swimming, and other outdoor activities.
Solar Energy Potential
Al Mukalla, situated on the southern coast of Yemen, possesses a tremendous potential for harnessing solar energy. The city experiences abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average daily solar irradiation exceeding 5.5 kWh/m². This makes Al Mukalla an ideal location for the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and other solar energy applications.
Solar Energy Projects and Initiatives
Several initiatives are underway in Al Mukalla to promote the adoption of solar energy. The local government has implemented policies that encourage the installation of grid-connected solar PV systems on residential and commercial buildings. Additionally, the city has witnessed the establishment of solar microgrids in remote areas, providing electricity to communities that lack access to conventional grid infrastructure. One notable example is the solar microgrid project implemented by the World Bank in partnership with local authorities, which supplies electricity to over 2,000 households in the Al Mashaikh district.
Coastal Plains and Valleys
Al Mukalla lies along the southern coast of Yemen, within the Tihama coastal plain. This arid region is characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain, punctuated by occasional hills and dunes. The coastal plain gradually rises towards the interior, forming a series of narrow valleys that dissect the landscape. These valleys, known as wadis, are often dry and serve as drainage channels during the infrequent rainfall events. The wadis provide limited agricultural opportunities for the local population, but their rugged terrain can also pose challenges for transportation and development.
Eastern Highlands
To the east of Al Mukalla, the coastal plain transitions into the Hadhramaut Plateau, a rugged and mountainous region that dominates the interior of eastern Yemen. The Hadhramaut Plateau is home to a series of parallel mountain ranges separated by deep canyons and wadis. The highest peak in the region is Jabal Shibam, reaching an altitude of over 2,000 meters. The plateau’s steep slopes and limited water resources make it a challenging environment for human habitation, but its numerous wadis support scattered oases and agricultural communities. The plateau is also rich in archaeological and historical sites, including the ancient city of Shibam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique architecture.
Riyan International Airport
Riyan International Airport (RIY) is the nearest airport to Al Mukalla, located approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) to the east of the city center. It is the only international airport in the Hadhramaut region of Yemen and serves as a vital gateway to the eastern part of the country. RIY handles both domestic and international flights, with regular services to major cities such as Aden, Sana’a, Cairo, and Jeddah. The airport has a single runway and a modern terminal building, providing passengers with essential amenities and facilities.
Other Nearby Airports
Besides Riyan International Airport, there are a few other airports located within a reasonable distance from Al Mukalla. These airports include:
- Aden International Airport (ADE): Approximately 330 kilometers (205 miles) west of Al Mukalla, Aden International Airport is the primary international gateway to Yemen. It offers connections to various destinations in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
- Seiyun International Airport (GXF): Located about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of Al Mukalla, Seiyun International Airport is a regional airport serving the Hadhramaut Governorate. It primarily handles domestic flights within Yemen.
- Al Ghaidah International Airport (AAY): Situated on the Socotra Archipelago, approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) southeast of Al Mukalla, Al Ghaidah International Airport provides limited air services to the island.
The choice of airport for traveling to Al Mukalla depends on various factors such as flight availability, cost, and convenience. Riyan International Airport remains the most convenient option for both domestic and international travelers, while the other airports may offer alternative routes depending on the destination and travel itinerary.
History and Culture
Al Mukalla, a city on the southern coast of Yemen, boasts a rich history dating back centuries. It served as a significant trading hub and a gateway to the Indian Ocean, attracting merchants from across the region. The city’s strategic location has made it a target of various conquerors throughout history, including the Portuguese, Ottomans, and British. Al Mukalla’s vibrant culture reflects its diverse influences, with traditional Yemeni customs blending with elements from other Arabian and African cultures. The city is renowned for its traditional music and dance, as well as its intricate handicrafts and textiles.
Economic Significance
Al Mukalla is the economic center of the Hadhramaut region. Its port is the largest in Yemen and plays a crucial role in the country’s trade activities. The city serves as a gateway for imports and exports, including oil and gas, livestock, and agricultural products. In recent years, Al Mukalla has witnessed growth in the tourism sector, with its pristine beaches and historical sites attracting visitors both domestically and internationally. The city’s economy is also bolstered by the presence of several major corporations, including the Yemeni Oil Company and the Yemen National Oil Company.