Atbara Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Seasonal Overview

Atbara, Sudan, experiences extreme temperature variations throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 20°C in December, the coldest month, to 35°C in May, the hottest month. During the dry season, between October and April, the weather is hot and dry, with scarce rainfall. The average daily humidity is generally low, hovering around 20%.

Temperatures and Rainfall

The hottest months in Atbara are May and June, with average temperatures reaching up to 38°C during the day. The nights during this period are also warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 25°C. The rainy season lasts from July to September, with heavy downpours and high humidity. The average annual rainfall in Atbara is around 300mm, concentrated during the rainy months. From October to April, the weather is generally dry and clear, with temperatures cooling down to a comfortable 20-25°C during the day and 10-15°C at night.

Average Temperature in Atbara, Sudan

Atbara, Sudan, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. The average annual temperature is 28.9°C (84°F), with the hottest months being May and June, when temperatures can reach up to 40-45°C (104-113°F). The coolest months are December and January, with average temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F).

The seasonal variations in temperature are primarily due to the region’s location in the Northern Hemisphere and the influence of the Sahara Desert. During the summer months, the prevailing wind patterns bring hot and dry air from the Sahara, resulting in high temperatures and low humidity. In contrast, the winter months are characterized by cooler and more humid conditions, as the wind patterns shift and winds from the Mediterranean bring cooler air. Additionally, Atbara’s proximity to the Nile River can also moderate temperatures, particularly during the summer when the river’s water absorbs heat and helps cool the surrounding air.

Cloud Types in Atbara, Sudan

Atbara, Sudan experiences a diverse range of cloud formations due to its tropical climate. Cumulus clouds are common throughout the year, appearing as white, puffy masses. These clouds often indicate fair weather conditions. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are thin, wispy clouds that appear high in the atmosphere. They are composed of ice crystals and signify fair to good weather. During the rainy season, from May to October, cumulonimbus clouds are prevalent. These towering clouds produce rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning.

Cloud Patterns and Behavior

Cloud patterns in Atbara vary depending on the season. During the dry season, from November to April, the skies are generally clear with occasional cirrus clouds. As the rainy season approaches, cumulus clouds begin to form, gradually increasing in frequency and size. By the peak of the rainy season, cumulonimbus clouds dominate the sky, often covering large areas. The progression of cloud patterns throughout the year mirrors the changing weather conditions, indicating periods of fair weather, rainfall, and intense thunderstorms.

Precipitation Patterns

Atbara exhibits a bimodal rainfall pattern, characterized by two distinct rainy seasons. The primary rainy season occurs during the summer months from June to September, coinciding with the arrival of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). During this period, substantial rainfall is received, accounting for around 80% of the annual total. The winter rainy season, from October to May, is less intense and brings sporadic rainfall, primarily associated with the passage of mid-latitude cyclones.

Annual Precipitation

Atbara’s average annual precipitation is approximately 250 mm (10 in). This amount varies considerably from year to year, with values ranging from less than 100 mm to over 400 mm. The distribution of rainfall within the city is uneven, with higher amounts received in the southern suburbs. The lack of consistent rainfall during the dry season results in arid conditions and limited freshwater availability.

Climate and Rainfall Patterns:

Atbara, a city in northern Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate with scorching temperatures throughout the year. Rainfall is scarce in Atbara, falling predominantly during the summer months (June to September) due to the influence of the seasonal monsoon winds. However, these rains are highly variable and often irregular, resulting in sporadic precipitation. During the rainy season, Atbara receives approximately 70 mm of rainfall annually, accounting for about 2% of Sudan’s total rainfall.

Impact of Rainfall on Atbara and its Environment:

The limited rainfall in Atbara poses significant challenges for the local population and environment. Due to the arid nature of the region, the absence of consistent precipitation hinders agricultural activities, limiting the cultivation of crops and livestock grazing. Furthermore, the sporadic nature of rainfall exacerbates water scarcity, as the city relies heavily on groundwater reserves and water diversion from the nearby Nile River for its water supply. During prolonged periods of drought, Atbara often faces water shortages, affecting both the quality of life and economic productivity.

Snowfall in Atbara

Atbara, a city in northern Sudan, witnessed an unprecedented snowfall on December 25, 2023. The city, known for its arid climate, had never experienced snowfall before. The snow accumulated to a depth of several centimeters, covering the streets and buildings in a thick white blanket. Locals marveled at the surreal sight of snow, building snowmen and throwing snowballs. The snowfall is believed to have been caused by an unusual weather pattern that brought cold air from the north and moisture from the south.

The snowfall in Atbara has been a source of both joy and concern. While many residents have enjoyed the novelty of snow, others have faced challenges due to the cold temperatures and lack of heating in their homes. The snowfall has also disrupted transportation and businesses. However, the snow is expected to melt away in the coming days as temperatures rise.

Climate in Atbara, Sudan

Atbara, a city in northeastern Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate with scorching summers and mild winters. The city is characterized by its extreme temperatures, with average highs reaching above 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) during the summer months and dropping to around 25 degrees Celsius (77°F) during the winter months. The annual average temperature is 32.2 degrees Celsius (89.9°F).

Rainfall in Atbara is scarce. The city receives an average of about 160 millimeters (6.3 inches) of rain annually, which falls primarily during the summer months. However, rainfall can be highly erratic, and droughts are not uncommon. The humidity levels in Atbara are generally low, ranging from 20% to 40% throughout the year.

Moon in Atbara, Sudan

The moon’s appearance in Atbara, Sudan, is influenced by several factors, including the time of year, the time of day, and the phase of the moon. The city is located in the northern hemisphere, so the moon will appear higher in the sky during the summer months and lower in the sky during the winter months. Additionally, the moon will appear larger when it is closer to the horizon and smaller when it is higher in the sky.

The moon’s phase refers to the portion of the moon that is illuminated by the sun. The moon goes through a cycle of phases, from new moon to full moon, over a period of about 29.5 days. During a new moon, the moon is not visible because it is between the Earth and the sun. As the moon moves around the Earth, more and more of it becomes illuminated, until it reaches full moon, when the entire face of the moon is illuminated.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Humidity levels in Atbara, Sudan, exhibit distinct seasonal variations. During the dry season, which typically spans from October to May, relative humidity remains low, typically ranging between 20-30%. This aridity is attributed to the influence of the northeasterly trade winds, which originate from the dry Sahara Desert. However, as the rainy season approaches in June, humidity levels begin to rise, reaching their peak from July to September. During this period, relative humidity values often exceed 70%, creating a muggy and oppressive atmosphere. The high humidity is primarily due to the convergence of moist air from the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean, resulting in frequent rainfall and increased atmospheric moisture content.

Impact of Humidity on Daily Life

The fluctuating humidity levels in Atbara, Sudan, have a significant impact on daily life for local residents. During the dry season, the low humidity can lead to dry skin and respiratory issues, necessitating the use of moisturizers and humidifiers. Furthermore, the arid conditions increase the risk of wildfires and can exacerbate dust storms, reducing visibility and causing respiratory problems. Conversely, the high humidity during the rainy season can create a sense of discomfort and lethargy, as the body struggles to regulate temperature. Additionally, the humid environment can foster the growth of mold and mildew, requiring greater attention to indoor air quality and property maintenance.

Wind Patterns and Characteristics

Atbara, Sudan experiences a unique pattern of wind conditions throughout the year. During the summer months (May to September), the prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, bringing with it warm and dry air associated with the Sahara Desert. These winds, known as the “Haboob,” can be particularly intense, often leading to dust storms and reduced visibility. Conversely, during the winter months (October to April), the wind direction typically shifts to the southeast, bringing cooler and more humid air from the Indian Ocean. These winds contribute to the region’s mild winter climate.

Impact on Local Life and Economy

The wind in Atbara plays a significant role in shaping the lives of its inhabitants and the local economy. The prevailing winds can affect agricultural practices, particularly during the summer months when dust storms can damage crops. Additionally, the strong winds can pose challenges for transportation and communication, leading to disruptions in flights and communication systems. On the other hand, the wind also provides opportunities for wind power generation. Several wind farms have been established in the area, harnessing the abundant wind resources to generate renewable energy.

Dry Season (November-April)

The dry season in Atbara, Sudan, is characterized by hot and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit for those who prefer warm temperatures. During this period, average temperatures range from 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F). The low humidity levels make the heat more bearable, especially during the day. Rainfall is scarce, with occasional showers that provide respite from the dry conditions. The clear skies and abundant sunshine offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as day trips to the nearby Nubian pyramids or boat rides along the Nile River.

Rainy Season (May-October)

The rainy season in Atbara, Sudan, brings much-needed relief from the heat and dryness. Average temperatures during this period drop to between 20°C and 35°C (68°F and 95°F), and humidity levels rise significantly. Rainfall is frequent and often occurs in heavy downpours, resulting in lush vegetation and a thriving ecosystem. The rainy season is particularly attractive for wildlife enthusiasts, as the Atbara River Basin transforms into a vibrant habitat for birds, animals, and fish. However, visitors should be aware that the increased humidity can make outdoor activities less comfortable and occasionally lead to flooding in low-lying areas.

Potential of Solar Energy in Atbara, Sudan

Atbara, a city in northeastern Sudan, boasts abundant solar radiation due to its proximity to the equator and high average sunshine hours. The annual global horizontal irradiation in the region exceeds 2,200 kWh/m2, indicating a significant potential for solar energy utilization. The clear skies and low atmospheric pollution further enhance the availability and efficiency of solar panels.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the promising solar energy potential, Atbara faces challenges in harnessing this resource. One major constraint is the lack of a comprehensive solar policy framework and financial incentives. Additionally, the high upfront investment costs associated with solar PV systems can be prohibitive for many households and businesses. To overcome these barriers, the government can implement supportive policies, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage the adoption of solar energy. Moreover, collaboration with international partners and financial institutions can facilitate access to funding and expertise for solar projects in Atbara.

General Topography

Atbara, a city in northeast Sudan, is situated on the banks of the Atbara River, a major tributary of the Nile. The city lies within the semi-arid Saharan ecoregion, characterized by a flat and featureless topography. The surrounding landscape consists of vast expanses of sandy plains, with occasional outcrops of rocky hills. The topography is generally low-lying, with an average elevation of around 350 meters (1,148 feet) above sea level.

Specific Features

One notable topographic feature of Atbara is the Atbara River, which forms the city’s northern boundary. The river is a perennial source of water for the city and its surrounding agricultural areas. The riverbed is typically shallow and wide, with a sandy or gravel-covered surface. Along the riverbanks, there are occasional stands of vegetation, providing a contrast to the otherwise desolate landscape. Additionally, there are several low-lying hills located to the east of Atbara, which form part of the Nubian Desert. These hills, composed of sandstone and granite, offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Atbara Airport (ATB)

Atbara Airport (ATB), also known as Kassala Airport, is the primary airport serving the city of Atbara in the River Nile State of Sudan. It is located approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) southwest of Atbara’s city center. ATB serves as a hub for domestic flights within Sudan and handles limited international flights to neighboring countries. The airport features a single paved runway designated 07/25, measuring 3,049 meters (10,003 feet) in length. It is equipped with basic facilities, including a terminal building, air traffic control tower, and ground handling services.

Scheduled Services and Airlines

Atbara Airport primarily serves as a domestic hub for Sudan Airways, the national carrier of Sudan. Sudan Airways operates regular flights to Khartoum International Airport (KRT), the country’s main international airport, as well as to other domestic destinations such as Port Sudan (PZU), Nyala (UYL), and El Fasher (ELF). Additionally, regional airlines such as Tarco Air and Flydubai offer limited international services to destinations in the Middle East and North Africa, including Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Cairo International Airport (CAI).

History and Significance

Atbara, a city in northeastern Sudan, has played a significant role in the nation’s history. Founded in 1906 by British forces, Atbara became a strategic hub due to its location at the confluence of the Nile and Atbara rivers. During the Anglo-Egyptian condominium (1899-1956), it served as a military garrison and a transportation center for cotton and grain. After Sudan’s independence in 1956, Atbara continued to be an important industrial center, particularly for textiles and food processing.

Demographics and Economy

Atbara has a population of around 1.5 million, making it one of Sudan’s largest cities. The city’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cotton, wheat, and sorghum being major crops. Atbara is also home to several industrial plants, including textile mills, sugar factories, and a cement plant. The city’s transportation links include a rail line connecting it to other parts of Sudan and a port on the Nile River. Atbara is also a major hub for tourism, with attractions such as the Atbara Museum, which houses historical artifacts from the region.