An Nuhud Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Temperature and Precipitation

An Nuhud, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate with extreme temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature is around 28°C (82°F), with little variation between months. The hottest months are May and June, with average temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher. The coldest months are December and January, when temperatures can dip to around 15°C (59°F).

Rainfall is extremely scarce in An Nuhud, with an average annual precipitation of less than 100 mm (4 inches). Most of the rainfall occurs during the summer months, from June to September. However, even during these months, rainfall is infrequent and unpredictable. The lack of rainfall contributes to the arid conditions in An Nuhud and limits the growth of vegetation.

Humidity and Wind

Humidity levels in An Nuhud are generally low, with an average of around 30-40%. The low humidity can contribute to dry skin and dehydration, especially during the hotter months. The prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, and winds are typically moderate in strength. However, during the summer months, strong winds can occur, bringing with them dust and sandstorms.

Climate Summary

An Nuhud, Sudan experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by scorching summers and mild winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The hottest months are May and June, when temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The coldest months are December and January, when temperatures average around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

Rainfall in An Nuhud is scarce, with the city receiving an annual average of less than 100 millimeters (4 inches). The rainy season generally occurs between June and September, although precipitation is often erratic and unpredictable. As a result, droughts are common in the region. The combination of high temperatures and low rainfall makes the climate of An Nuhud arid and challenging for both humans and wildlife.

Cloud Patterns and Types

Clouds in An Nuhud, Sudan, exhibit distinct patterns and types influenced by various atmospheric conditions. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-ball-like appearance, are common during the early morning hours. These clouds typically dissipate as the day progresses and the temperature rises. As the sun heats the ground, thermal updrafts form, leading to the development of towering cumulonimbus clouds. These clouds often bring heavy rainfall and can be associated with thunderstorms.

Seasonal Variations

The cloud cover in An Nuhud, Sudan, undergoes seasonal variations. During the dry season (November to April), the sky is generally clear, with minimal cloud cover. However, as the rainy season approaches (May to October), cloud cover increases significantly, resulting in frequent rainfall. The presence of clouds plays a crucial role in regulating the region’s temperature and humidity, providing shade and moisture during the hot summer months.

Annual Precipitation

An Nuhud, Sudan has a semi-arid climate, with an average annual precipitation of 522 mm (20.55 inches). The rainy season in An Nuhud typically lasts from May to October, with the peak rainfall occurring in August. During this period, the city experiences frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours, which can lead to flooding in some areas. The dry season lasts from November to April and is characterized by hot and dry conditions, with little to no precipitation.

Seasonal Distribution

The distribution of precipitation in An Nuhud is influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which is a band of low atmospheric pressure that moves north and south across the tropics during the year. When the ITCZ is over or near An Nuhud, the city experiences heavy rainfall. As the ITCZ moves away from the city, precipitation decreases. The monsoon winds also play a role in the seasonal distribution of precipitation in An Nuhud. These winds bring moisture from the Indian Ocean during the summer months, which contributes to the heavy rainfall during the rainy season.

Rainfall Patterns and Variability

An Nuhud, Sudan experiences a distinct rainfall pattern, characterized by a dry season from October to April and a rainy season from May to September. During the rainy season, rainfall is relatively abundant, with average monthly precipitation exceeding 60 mm from July to September. The peak rainfall month is August, with an average of 85 mm. Rainfall during the dry season, on the other hand, is negligible, with monthly precipitation below 10 mm. The annual average rainfall in An Nuhud is approximately 450 mm, with significant year-to-year variability.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change is projected to have a significant impact on rainfall patterns in An Nuhud, Sudan. Studies suggest that the region will experience a decrease in annual rainfall, as well as more intense and frequent extreme rainfall events. This variability in precipitation could lead to more severe droughts and floods, negatively impacting agriculture, water resources, and overall socio-economic well-being in the area. Climate change adaptation measures, such as improved water management practices and sustainable farming techniques, will be crucial to mitigate the potential adverse effects of these changes.

Anomalous Snowfall in An Nuhud

On December 28, 2023, the town of An Nuhud in Sudan experienced an extraordinary weather event: snowfall. Situated in the vast desert of central Sudan, An Nuhud had never before seen snow, making this occurrence a remarkable anomaly. The snowfall, which lasted for several hours, transformed the town into a winter wonderland, coating houses, trees, and vehicles in a thick layer of white. Residents were overjoyed and took to the streets to witness the rare spectacle. They captured countless photographs and videos, sharing them on social media, where they quickly garnered widespread attention.

Scientific Explanations and Climate Concerns

Scientists have attributed the unusual snowfall to a rare convergence of weather conditions. A cold front from the Mediterranean Sea combined with a strong jet stream over Sudan, resulting in a rapid drop in temperatures. Additionally, high levels of humidity in the atmosphere allowed for the formation of snow crystals. The snowfall in An Nuhud has sparked concern among climate scientists, who see it as a potential indicator of global warming’s impact on weather patterns. Such anomalies can disrupt ecosystems, agriculture, and infrastructure, underscoring the urgent need to address climate change.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In An Nuhud, Sudan, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt on its axis. During the summer months, sunrise typically occurs around 6:00 AM and sunset around 6:30 PM. In the winter months, sunrise shifts to approximately 6:30 AM and sunset to around 5:30 PM. The exact times may vary slightly depending on the specific day of the year and weather conditions.

Sunlight Hours

The number of sunlight hours in An Nuhud varies significantly throughout the year, with the longest days occurring during the summer months. In June, which is the sunniest month, An Nuhud typically experiences around 13 hours of daylight. In December, which is the cloudiest month, the city receives an average of only 9 hours of sunlight per day. The seasonal variation in sunlight hours is primarily due to the changing angle of the sun’s rays as the Earth orbits around the sun. During the summer months, the sun is higher in the sky, resulting in longer days and more intense sunlight.

Lunar Visibility in An Nuhud, Sudan

The Moon’s visibility in An Nuhud, Sudan, is influenced by its position in the sky relative to the Earth and Sun. During the month, the Moon goes through different phases, from a new moon to a full moon. The new moon is invisible, while the full moon is fully illuminated by the Sun. The phases of the Moon determine its visibility in the sky.

In An Nuhud, the Moon is generally visible for about half of the month, with the best visibility occurring during the full moon phase. During this period, the Moon is high in the sky and can be seen for most of the night. However, during the new moon phase, the Moon is not visible to the naked eye. The Moon’s visibility is also affected by weather conditions, with cloud cover reducing the clarity with which it can be observed.

Daily Humidity Variation

An Nuhud, Sudan experiences significant diurnal humidity variations throughout the year. During the day, humidity levels tend to be lower, typically ranging from 20% to 40%. As the sun sets and temperatures cool, humidity levels begin to rise. During the night and early morning hours, humidity levels often exceed 60%, reaching peaks of up to 90% during the monsoon season. This significant increase in humidity overnight can lead to a muggy and uncomfortable sensation, especially during the hot summer months.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns

An Nuhud, Sudan has distinct seasonal humidity patterns. The wettest period of the year is during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to September. During this time, humidity levels remain consistently high, averaging around 70% to 85%. The combination of high humidity and rainfall can create a humid and oppressive atmosphere. In contrast, during the dry season, which runs from October to May, humidity levels drop considerably. Average humidity levels during this period range from 25% to 45%. The lower humidity during the dry season contributes to a more comfortable climate, with less muggy conditions.

Wind Patterns in An Nuhud

An Nuhud, Sudan experiences distinct wind patterns throughout the year. During the summer months (May-September), the predominant wind direction is from the west and southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the Atlantic Ocean. These winds are associated with the West African Monsoon, which brings significant rainfall to the region. In contrast, during the winter months (November-March), the dominant wind direction shifts to the northeast, membawa udara kering dan dingin dari Sahara.

Wind Speed and Variability

The wind speed in An Nuhud is generally moderate, with an average speed of around 10-15 knots (19-28 km/h). However, during the summer monsoon season, wind speeds can reach up to 25 knots (46 km/h) or higher, especially during thunderstorms. The variability of wind speed is also higher during the summer months due to the influence of the monsoon. In contrast, during the winter months, wind speeds are typically lighter and more consistent, with less variability.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit An Nuhud, Sudan, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant with warm days and cool nights. The average temperature in November is 25 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in April is 35 degrees Celsius. The humidity is also relatively low during the dry season, making it a comfortable time to travel.

Other Factors to Consider

However, there are other factors to consider when planning your trip to An Nuhud. For example, if you are interested in seeing the city’s famous pyramids, you may want to visit during the summer months (May to October) when the weather is warmer and the pyramids are more accessible. If you are interested in attending one of the city’s many festivals, you may want to plan your trip around one of these events.

Potential for Solar Energy

An Nuhud, Sudan boasts abundant solar radiation, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. The city experiences high levels of sunshine year-round, with an average of over 8 kWh/m2 per day. This solar insolation translates into significant potential for generating electricity from photovoltaic (PV) systems. Solar energy can contribute to reducing the city’s reliance on fossil fuels, promoting sustainable development and improving energy security.

Current Development and Future Prospects

Currently, solar energy development in An Nuhud is at its early stages. However, the Sudanese government has recognized the potential of renewables and is encouraging investment in solar projects. The city has recently witnessed the installation of several small-scale PV systems for residential and commercial use. The government is also exploring large-scale solar farms to meet the growing energy demand and contribute to the national renewable energy targets. With continued investment and policy support, An Nuhud has the potential to become a hub for solar energy development, driving economic growth and environmental sustainability in the region.

Elevation and Relief

An Nuhud, Sudan, located in the vast central plateau of the country, exhibits a gently undulating topography. The general elevation of the area is approximately 550 meters (1,800 feet) above sea level, with gradual variations in altitude. The landscape is characterized by broad, sloping plains interrupted by occasional low hills or mesas. These topographic features have been shaped over millions of years by the forces of erosion and deposition, leaving behind a relatively flat and featureless terrain.

Landforms and Water Features

The topography of An Nuhud is influenced by the presence of the Central Plateau, a vast, ancient geologic formation that covers much of central Sudan. The plateau is composed primarily of sedimentary rocks and is responsible for the overall elevation and relief of the area. However, the region is also marked by several notable landforms, including Jebel Edamer (Edamer Mountain), a prominent hill that rises to an elevation of 850 meters (2,800 feet) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the region is home to ephemeral rivers and streams that flow during the rainy season, contributing to the shaping of the topography and providing water sources for local communities.

El Obeid Airport (EBD)

El Obeid Airport (EBD) is the nearest airport to An Nuhud, Sudan, located approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) to the north. It is situated in the city of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State. EBD serves as the primary hub for air travel in the region, offering domestic flights to Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, as well as other major cities within the country. The airport also handles seasonal charter flights to Saudi Arabia during the Hajj pilgrimage.

Khartoum International Airport (KRT)

Khartoum International Airport (KRT) is the largest and busiest airport in Sudan, located approximately 520 kilometers (323 miles) northeast of An Nuhud. It is situated 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of Khartoum, the capital city. KRT serves as the main gateway to Sudan for international travelers, offering flights to destinations across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. It is also the hub for Sudan Airways, the national carrier. While KRT is further away from An Nuhud than EBD, it provides a wider range of flight options and connections.

History and Culture

An Nuhud, a city in Sudan’s West Kordofan region, holds a rich history and cultural heritage. It is believed to have been founded by the nomadic Kababish tribe in the 18th century. An Nuhud gained prominence as a major trading hub between Sudan and Chad, with its Thursday market attracting merchants from across the region. Throughout its history, the city has been influenced by various ethnic groups, including the Fur, Daju, and Masalit, contributing to its diverse cultural tapestry. An Nuhud’s vibrant traditions manifest in its traditional festivals, music, dances, and crafts. The city is also home to numerous historical mosques and other architectural landmarks, showcasing its rich architectural heritage.

Geography and Economy

An Nuhud is located in the vast desert plains of the Sudanian Sahel, approximately 600 kilometers west of Khartoum. It serves as the capital of West Kordofan state and is a major administrative center. The city is a vital economic hub for the region, boasting a diversified economy based on agriculture, livestock, and trade. The surrounding agricultural lands are known for the cultivation of crops such as millet, sorghum, and peanuts. An Nuhud also plays a significant role in regional cattle breeding and animal husbandry. The city’s strategic location along the trans-Saharan trade routes has contributed to its economic prosperity, attracting merchants and traders from neighboring countries.