Bandar `Abbas Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Iran

Summer: Hot and Humid

Bandar Abbas experiences a hot and humid summer that extends from June to September. During this time, temperatures soar to an average high of around 95°F (35°C), with little respite at night. The humidity levels also remain high, making the heat feel even more oppressive. There is a slight chance of rainfall during the summer months, but it is typically light and sporadic.

Winter: Mild and Dry

In contrast to the summer, the winter in Bandar Abbas is mild and dry. Temperatures from December to February average around 70°F (21°C) during the day and drop to a comfortable 55°F (13°C) at night. The humidity levels are significantly lower during this time, making the weather feel pleasant and refreshing. There is also a higher likelihood of rainfall during the winter months, although it is still relatively infrequent.

Average Temperature in Bandar Abbas, Iran

Bandar Abbas, a port city in southern Iran, enjoys a warm and humid climate throughout the year. The average temperature in Bandar Abbas ranges from 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F), with little variation between seasons. During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can reach up to 45°C (113°F), creating a sultry and uncomfortable climate. Humidity levels in Bandar Abbas are typically high, making the summer heat even more oppressive.

In contrast, winter temperatures in Bandar Abbas are relatively mild, with average lows of around 15°C (59°F) and highs of 20°C (68°F). The humidity levels also decrease during this time, making it a more pleasant time to visit. The rainy season in Bandar Abbas occurs during the winter months, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. Annual precipitation is relatively low, averaging around 180 mm (7 inches) per year.

Cloud Types and Occurrence

Bandar Abbas, situated on the southern coast of Iran, experiences diverse cloud formations due to its warm and humid subtropical climate. During the summer months, thick cumulus and towering cumulonimbus clouds dominate the skies, often bringing heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. In the fall and winter, high-level cirrus and cirrocumulus clouds prevail, creating a picturesque canvas of delicate streaks and wispy veils.

Impact on Weather and Climate

Clouds play a crucial role in determining the weather conditions in Bandar Abbas. Dense cloud cover can block sunlight, leading to cooler temperatures and reduced solar radiation. Conversely, clear skies allow sunlight to penetrate, resulting in warmer weather and higher evaporation rates. Additionally, clouds influence precipitation patterns. Cumulonimbus clouds are responsible for the city’s occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, while cirrus clouds indicate the approach of a cold front or a change in weather conditions.

Cultural and Aesthetic Significance

The ever-changing cloudscapes of Bandar Abbas have inspired local folklore and poetry. In Persian literature, the city is often depicted as a place where clouds dance and intertwine, casting beautiful shadows on the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf. Additionally, the unique cloud formations attract photographers and artists, who capture the ephemeral poetry of the sky in their works.

Climate Zones and Precipitation Patterns

Bandar Abbas, situated in southern Iran, falls within the Köppen climate zone BWh, characterized by its hot desert climate. This region experiences extremely limited precipitation throughout the year, averaging less than 250 mm annually. The city’s proximity to the Persian Gulf and the Zagros Mountains largely influences its precipitation patterns. The former acts as a barrier, preventing the access of moisture-bearing clouds from the Indian Ocean, while the towering mountain range further restricts the flow of rain-producing systems.

Seasonal Distribution

Precipitation in Bandar Abbas exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern. The driest months are June, July, and August, when the city receives virtually no rainfall. The wettest period occurs during the winter months of December, January, and February, when limited precipitation is observed. This precipitation is primarily the result of the passage of weak winter cyclones that bring moisture from the Mediterranean Sea. During these months, the average monthly rainfall can reach up to 50 mm.

Seasonal Patterns

Bandar Abbas, Iran, is characterized by a distinct rainfall pattern that varies significantly throughout the year. The city experiences a dry season that spans the majority of the year, typically lasting from November to April. During this period, rainfall is infrequent and often occurs in small amounts. In contrast, Bandar Abbas receives most of its annual precipitation during the monsoon season, which typically lasts from May to September. During this season, heavy rainfall is common, with frequent thunderstorms and occasional flash floods. The monsoon season accounts for a significant portion of the city’s annual rainfall, contributing to its overall humid subtropical climate.

Annual Variation

The amount of rainfall received by Bandar Abbas varies considerably from year to year. In general, the city receives an average of approximately 200 millimeters (8 inches) of rainfall annually. However, this average can fluctuate significantly, with some years experiencing as much as 400 millimeters (16 inches) of rainfall, while others receive less than 100 millimeters (4 inches). The year-to-year variation in rainfall is influenced by a number of factors, including global climate patterns and the intensity of the monsoon season. As a result, Bandar Abbas can experience periods of drought or excessive rainfall, affecting agriculture and water resources in the region.

Historical Occurrence

Snowfall in Bandar Abbas, a coastal city in southern Iran known for its warm climate, is a rare and historic event. Throughout recorded history, only a handful of such occurrences have been documented, with the most recent one occurring in 2023. The snowfall, which lasted for several hours, blanketed the city in a thin layer of white, creating a picturesque and unexpected sight.

Causes and Effects

The snowfall in Bandar Abbas was caused by an unusual combination of meteorological factors, including a cold front from the north, high humidity, and a drop in temperature. Although the city is located near the Persian Gulf, the cold front brought with it freezing temperatures and moisture, leading to the formation of snowflakes. The snowfall had a significant impact on the local community, causing traffic disruptions and school closures. It also attracted numerous visitors who flocked to the city to witness the rare spectacle.

Sunrise and Sunset Times:

Bandar Abbas, a vibrant port city nestled along the Persian Gulf, experiences a predictable pattern of sunrise and sunset throughout the year. During the summer months, the sun rises between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM and sets around 7:00 PM, offering long days filled with ample sunlight. As the seasons transition, sunrise and sunset times gradually shift, with the first rays of dawn appearing later and the sun descending earlier. In the winter, sunrise occurs between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM, and sunset takes place around 5:30 PM, resulting in shorter days.

Sunlight Hours:

Bandar Abbas enjoys a generous number of sunlight hours throughout the year. During the summer, the city receives an average of over 14 hours of daylight each day, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and sunbathing. As the days shorten in the winter, the number of sunlight hours decreases, with Bandar Abbas typically receiving around 10-11 hours of daylight per day. Despite the seasonal variations, the city’s strong sunlight intensity and clear skies make it an ideal destination for those seeking a healthy dose of vitamin D and a touch of sunshine all year round.

Moon Phase and Position

The Moon’s phase and position in Bandar Abbas, Iran, undergo constant changes throughout the month, influenced by its orbit around Earth and the angle at which sunlight is reflected. The Moon’s phases, such as new moon, full moon, first quarter, and third quarter, are determined by the amount of sunlight illuminating its visible surface. In Bandar Abbas, the Moon’s phase can be observed in all its stages, providing a captivating celestial display.

The Moon’s position in the sky also varies nightly. It rises and sets at different times, and its altitude above the horizon changes throughout the night. The Moon’s position can affect various aspects of life in Bandar Abbas, including navigation, religious observances, and tidal patterns.

Relative Humidity in Bandar Abbas, Iran

Bandar Abbas, a coastal city on the Persian Gulf in southern Iran, experiences high relative humidity throughout the year due to its proximity to the water. Monthly average relative humidity levels range from a minimum of 60% in August to a maximum of 85% in January. The high humidity levels are particularly noticeable during the summer months, when temperatures can reach up to 40°C and the air feels thick and oppressive.

The high humidity in Bandar Abbas can have a number of negative effects on the population. High humidity levels can lead to heat stress, as the body has difficulty cooling itself through evaporation. This can be especially dangerous for people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. Additionally, high humidity can cause discomfort, as it makes it feel hotter than it actually is.

Wind Patterns

Bandar Abbas, a coastal city in southern Iran, experiences a unique wind pattern largely influenced by its geographic location and proximity to the Persian Gulf. The prevailing wind direction is northwesterly, with winds originating from the Caspian Sea and the Eurasian Steppe. These winds are typically strong and persistent, especially during the summer months when they can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h. The northwesterly winds are responsible for the relatively mild and humid climate in Bandar Abbas, as they bring in cooler air from the Caspian Sea.

Seasonal Variations

During the summer, the northwesterly winds become more intense and frequent, bringing relief from the scorching heat. The winds also assist in dispersing air pollution, making the air quality in Bandar Abbas generally good. However, during the winter months, the winds can become weaker and less predictable, leading to occasional periods of stagnant air and reduced air quality. The change in wind patterns is primarily due to the seasonal shift in the pressure systems over the region, which causes the winds to shift direction.

Spring (April-May):

Bandar Abbas experiences a pleasant spring season with warm temperatures and sporadic rainfall. The average temperature hovers between 20-28°C (68-82°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s historical sites. The verdant greenery of the surrounding nature adds to the beauty of this time of year. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant Nowruz (Persian New Year) festivities in late March, which includes traditional music, dance, and food.

Autumn (October-November):

Autumn in Bandar Abbas is characterized by warm and sunny days followed by cool nights. Temperatures gradually decrease, ranging from 25-15°C (77-59°F). The humidity is lower than during summer, which makes for more comfortable strolls along the city’s pristine beaches. This season is also a great time to immerse in the local culture and visit the bustling bazaars to experience the vibrant atmosphere and find unique souvenirs.

Potential for Solar Energy in Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas possesses abundant solar resources, with an annual average solar radiation of over 6 kWh/m2/day. This favorable condition makes the city highly suitable for harnessing solar energy. The high irradiation levels provide a significant opportunity for solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) systems.

Progress and Initiatives

Bandar Abbas has witnessed substantial progress in the development of solar energy infrastructure. Several solar PV plants have been established, including the 10 MW Bandar Abbas Solar Park and the 4 MW Shahrdari PV plant. These projects are contributing to the city’s clean energy supply and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Moreover, the city authorities are actively promoting solar energy uptake through initiatives such as subsidies for PV installations and awareness campaigns to encourage residential and commercial adoption of solar technologies.

Elevation and Relief

Bandar Abbas, a port city on the southern coast of Iran, lies at an average elevation of approximately 8 meters (26 feet) above sea level. The city is situated on a narrow coastal plain, with the Zagros Mountains rising abruptly to the north and the Persian Gulf extending to the south. The highest point in Bandar Abbas is Mount Ershad, which reaches an elevation of 1,147 meters (3,763 feet) above sea level and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Coastal Features

The coastline of Bandar Abbas is characterized by long, sandy beaches, interspersed with rocky headlands and sheltered bays. The most prominent coastal feature is Qeshm Island, the largest island in the Persian Gulf, which lies just off the shore from Bandar Abbas. Qeshm Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and unique geological formations, including the Valley of the Stars, a collection of wind-eroded rock formations that resemble a collection of stars. The beaches of Bandar Abbas are popular destinations for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and the city’s picturesque harbor is a hub for fishing and boat tours.

Bandar Abbas International Airport (BND)

Bandar Abbas International Airport (IATA: BND, ICAO: OIKB) is the primary airport serving the city of Bandar Abbas, the capital of Hormozgan Province in southern Iran. It is situated on the eastern coast of the Persian Gulf, approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) northwest of the city center. BND is the largest airport in the province and serves as a gateway to southern Iran for both domestic and international flights.

The airport has a single passenger terminal with a capacity of roughly 1.5 million passengers annually. It is equipped with modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. BND is a hub for Iran Air and Iran Airtour, which operate flights to major cities in Iran and regional destinations in the Middle East. Additionally, several international carriers offer direct services to Dubai, Doha, Muscat, and other destinations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

History and Significance

Bandar Abbas has a rich and storied history, dating back to the ancient Persian Empire. It was once a bustling port city on the Silk Road, facilitating trade between Persia and the rest of the world. In the 16th century, it was occupied by the Portuguese and renamed “Ormuz.” The Portuguese were eventually driven out by the Persians in the early 17th century, and Bandar Abbas regained its status as a major port city. Today, it is the capital of Hormozgan Province and a significant industrial, commercial, and transportation hub in southern Iran.

Geography and Climate

Bandar Abbas is situated on the southern coast of Iran, on the Persian Gulf. It has a subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature in summer is around 32°C (90°F), while in winter it is around 16°C (61°F). The city is also prone to occasional dust storms, particularly during the summer months. The surrounding landscape is mostly flat and arid, with a few scattered mountains and valleys. The city is known for its beautiful palm tree-lined boulevards and coastal promenade, offering stunning views of the Persian Gulf.