Damanhur Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Egypt

Summer (June – September)

Damanhur’s summer months are known for their relentless heat and sunshine. Temperatures soar to a scorching average high of 38°C (100°F), accompanied by a sweltering humidity. The skies are generally cloudless, and there is a low chance of precipitation. The intense heat can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities during the day, but evenings offer some respite with temperatures dropping to a more bearable 25°C (77°F).

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Damanhur is a refreshing contrast to the heat of summer. Average temperatures range from a pleasant 15°C (59°F) during the day to a chilly 7°C (45°F) at night. The weather is typically mild and sunny, with occasional cloudy periods. While rainfall is rare, there may be a few days of drizzle or light rain. The winter months are ideal for exploring Damanhur’s attractions and enjoying outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of summer.

January Climate in Damanhur, Egypt

January is one of the coldest months in Damanhur, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The average humidity is around 70%, with an average of 2 days of precipitation throughout the month. January is characterized by occasional rainfall, providing a respite from the dry conditions that often prevail in Egypt during other parts of the year. Visitors can expect comfortable daytime temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s historical sites and attractions. Evenings and nights can be chilly, so it’s advisable to pack layers of clothing to stay warm.

February Climate in Damanhur, Egypt

February brings slightly warmer temperatures to Damanhur, with an average minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average maximum of 17°C (63°F). Humidity levels remain around 70%, and precipitation averages 2 days during the month. February marks the transition into spring, with milder temperatures and more sunshine. Visitors can enjoy pleasant outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, or exploring the city’s vibrant markets. While rainfall is still possible, it is less frequent than in January, allowing for more opportunities to soak up the sunshine.

Formation of Clouds

Clouds in Damanhur, Egypt, form due to the interaction between warm, moist air from the Mediterranean Sea and the cooler, drier air over the land. As the warm air rises, it cools and condenses, forming water droplets or ice crystals. These water droplets or ice crystals then collide and stick together, forming larger clouds. The type of cloud that forms depends on the temperature and humidity of the air, as well as the presence of any atmospheric disturbances.

Types of Clouds

The most common types of clouds in Damanhur are cirrus, cumulus, and stratus clouds. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are composed of ice crystals. Cumulus clouds are puffy clouds that have a cauliflower-like appearance. Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky. In addition to these three main types of clouds, there are also several other types of clouds that can be seen in Damanhur, including altocumulus, altostratus, and nimbostratus clouds.

Impact on Weather

Clouds have a significant impact on the weather in Damanhur. They can block out the sun, which can lead to cooler temperatures. They can also trap heat, which can lead to warmer temperatures. Clouds can also produce precipitation, such as rain, snow, or hail. The type of precipitation that occurs depends on the temperature and humidity of the air, as well as the type of cloud that is present.

Annual Precipitation

Damanhur experiences minimal precipitation throughout the year, with an average of just 20 millimeters (0.8 inches) annually. Rainfall is highly concentrated during the brief winter months from December to February, while the summer months are almost entirely dry. The low precipitation levels are primarily attributed to Damanhur’s location in the rain-shadow of the Mediterranean coast, which effectively blocks most rainfall from reaching the city.

Climate Change Impact

Climate change is projected to have significant implications for precipitation patterns in Damanhur. As global temperatures rise, the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events are expected to increase. This could lead to more intense rainfall during the winter months, resulting in flooding and water logging. Conversely, summer months may become even drier, exacerbating water scarcity and drought conditions. These changes could have adverse effects on water resources, agriculture, and the overall well-being of the local community in Damanhur.

Rainfall Patterns

Damanhur, a city in Egypt, experiences a hyper-arid climate characterized by extremely low annual rainfall. The region receives an average of less than 100 millimeters (3.9 inches) of rain per year. Rainfall is infrequent and unpredictable, with long periods of drought interspersed with occasional heavy downpours. Most precipitation occurs during the winter months, from November to March, when the northerly winds bring moisture from the Mediterranean Sea. The summer months, on the other hand, are typically dry and rainless.

Impacts of Rainfall Variability

The scarcity of rainfall in Damanhur has significant implications for the local environment and agriculture. The lack of water limits plant growth and hinders agricultural production, making the region heavily dependent on irrigation. The erratic nature of rainfall also poses challenges for water management, as farmers struggle to predict when and how much water their crops will receive. Additionally, the absence of consistent rainfall can lead to desertification, as the topsoil becomes dry and exposed to erosion by wind and sandstorms.

Historical Snowfall in Damanhur, Egypt

The Egyptian coastal city of Damanhur experienced an unprecedented snowfall on December 13, 2013, marking the first snowfall in the city’s recorded history. The snowfall, which reached up to 5 cm in depth, covered the streets and roofs in a blanket of white, bringing astonishment to the local residents. It is believed that the snowfall resulted from a rare convergence of weather conditions, including a drop in temperatures, increased moisture from the Mediterranean Sea, and a favorable wind pattern.

Impact of the Snowfall

The snowfall in Damanhur had a significant impact on the daily lives of its residents. Roads were closed, schools were suspended, and many businesses were forced to shut down. The snow also caused power outages, disrupting communication and transportation. However, the snowfall also brought joy and excitement to the city, with families building snowmen, throwing snowballs, and capturing the moment on their phones. The event was widely shared on social media, generating global attention and highlighting the unexpected beauty of snowfall in an unlikely location.

Geographic Context

Damanhur, located in the Nile Delta region of Egypt, experiences a desert climate with hot, dry summers and mild, dry winters. The city enjoys an average of 340 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest places on earth. The sun’s rays are strong and intense, with an average daily solar radiation of over 6 kWh/m2. The combination of high temperatures and abundant sunshine creates ideal conditions for solar energy generation and other sun-related activities.

Solar Energy Potential

Damanhur possesses immense solar energy potential due to its favorable geographic location and abundant sunlight. The city’s clear skies, lack of precipitation, and high solar radiation make it suitable for various solar technologies, including photovoltaic (PV) systems and concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. The government has recognized this potential and has launched initiatives to promote solar energy development. Several large-scale solar farms have been established in the surrounding area, contributing significantly to Egypt’s renewable energy portfolio. The city of Damanhur aims to become a hub for solar energy research and innovation, attracting investment and fostering economic growth in the region.

Historical Significance

The Moon Temple in Damanhur, Egypt, is an ancient temple built during the reign of Ptolemy II (285-246 BC). It was dedicated to the moon god Khonsu, and its construction marked a significant period in Egyptian religious history. The temple’s grandeur and architectural details reflect the importance the Ptolemaic era placed on celestial bodies and the worship of divinities associated with them. It is believed that the Moon Temple served as a major religious center, attracting pilgrims and worshippers from far and wide.

Architectural Features

The Moon Temple of Damanhur is renowned for its impressive architectural features and well-preserved state. Constructed of limestone, it consists of an entrance courtyard, a hypostyle hall, and a sanctuary. The courtyard, adorned with columns and statues, leads to the hypostyle hall, which is characterized by rows of intricately carved papyrus columns supporting the roof. The sanctuary is the innermost chamber, where the cult statue of Khonsu would have been housed. The temple’s reliefs and inscriptions provide valuable insights into the religious beliefs and rituals associated with Khonsu and the Ptolemaic era. Additionally, the temple’s complex system of underground chambers and water channels indicate the advanced engineering techniques employed in its construction.

Daily Humidity Levels:

Damanhur experiences significant fluctuations in daily humidity levels throughout the year. During the hot and dry summer months, from June to September, humidity levels typically remain low, ranging from 20% to 35%. These conditions are primarily influenced by the hot and dry Saharan winds. Conversely, during the winter months, from November to February, humidity levels tend to be higher, hovering between 40% and 60%. This increase is attributed to the influx of moisture from the Mediterranean Sea and occasional rainfall. The shoulder months of spring (March to May) and autumn (October) witness moderate humidity levels, typically ranging from 30% to 45%.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns:

Over the course of the year, humidity in Damanhur exhibits distinct seasonal patterns. The driest period falls between June and September, coinciding with the peak summer months. During this time, humidity levels rarely exceed 35% and often drop below 20%, creating arid and uncomfortable conditions. The wettest period occurs during the winter months, when humidity levels can reach 60% or higher. These conditions result in a noticeably humid atmosphere, especially during the morning and evening hours. The spring and autumn months offer a balance between these two extremes, with humidity levels hovering around 30%-45%, providing more tolerable conditions.

Wind Patterns and Climate

Damanhur’s wind patterns are largely influenced by its location in the northern Nile Delta. The prevailing winds are northwesterly, bringing cool, moist air from the Mediterranean Sea. These winds are particularly strong during the summer months, when they provide some relief from the intense heat. In the winter, winds tend to be more variable, with occasional strong southwesterly winds bringing warm, dry air from the Sahara Desert.

The wind patterns in Damanhur contribute to the city’s temperate climate. Summers are generally warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). The city experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with occasional heavy downpours during the spring and autumn months.

Summer (May-September)

During the summer months, temperatures in Damanhur reach their peak, hovering around 35°C (95°F). However, the intense heat is often accompanied by a refreshing sea breeze, making the weather bearable. This period is ideal for sunbathing and indulging in water sports along the nearby Mediterranean coast. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest hours.

Winter (November-April)

Winters in Damanhur are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F). This period offers the perfect conditions for exploring the ancient ruins and historical sites in and around the city. The rainfall during this season is minimal, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, the absence of extreme heat makes winter a comfortable time for trekking and nature walks in the surrounding countryside.

Solar Potential and Utilization in Damanhur:

Damanhur, a region in the Nile Delta of Egypt, boasts a significant solar energy potential due to its ample sunlight and favorable weather conditions throughout the year. This vast solar resource provides an opportunity for the region to transition to renewable energy and reduce its dependency on fossil fuels. The government of Egypt has recognized this potential and has worked to develop solar energy projects in the Damanhur area.

Solar Power Plants and Development:

Several large-scale solar power plants have been constructed in the Damanhur region, contributing to the country’s goal of generating 20% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2022. These solar plants utilize photovoltaic (PV) technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity. In addition to these utility-scale projects, there are also a number of smaller-scale solar projects in Damanhur, including solar water heaters and rooftop PV installations. The development of solar energy in the region has created jobs and stimulated economic growth, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy security.

Geomorphology

Damanhur, located in the Nile Delta of Egypt, exhibits a relatively flat topography with a gentle slope towards the Mediterranean Sea. The region is characterized by a combination of alluvial plains formed by the deposition of sediments carried by the Nile River and its distributaries, along with marine terraces and ridges dating back to previous sea level fluctuations. The flat terrain of the alluvial plains provides a suitable environment for agriculture, supporting the cultivation of various crops, including rice, cotton, and citrus fruits.

Hydrology

The hydrology of Damanhur is closely linked to the Nile River and its intricate network of canals that traverse the region. The Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt, serves as the primary source of water for drinking, irrigation, and transportation. Several irrigation canals divert water from the river to nearby fields, allowing for the cultivation of crops during the dry season. The flat topography and abundant water resources have facilitated the development of extensive agricultural activities in Damanhur, making it one of the most productive agricultural regions in Egypt. Additionally, the region is home to numerous freshwater lakes and marshes, which provide important habitats for various aquatic species and support local fisheries.

Alexandria International Airport (HBE)

Approximately 170 kilometers northeast of Damanhur, Alexandria International Airport (HBE) is the nearest airport. It serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Damanhur to major cities within Egypt and beyond. The airport features modern facilities, including ATMs, currency exchange offices, duty-free shops, and restaurants. Transportation options to and from the airport include taxis, buses, and rental cars. The drive to Damanhur from HBE takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Cairo International Airport (CAI)

Although further away than Alexandria International Airport, Cairo International Airport (CAI) is another major hub that offers a wider range of flight options. Located approximately 250 kilometers southeast of Damanhur, CAI serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Damanhur to cities worldwide. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a duty-free mall, luxurious lounges, and a variety of dining and shopping choices. Transportation to and from the airport is convenient, with options including the Cairo Metro, taxis, buses, and rental cars. The drive from CAI to Damanhur takes around 3 hours.

History and Significance

Damanhur is an ancient city in northern Egypt, situated in the Nile Delta. Its history dates back to the Bronze Age, and it played a prominent role in the development of Egyptian civilization. During the New Kingdom period (c. 1550-1070 BCE), Damanhur became the capital of the 10th nome (province) of Lower Egypt. It was renowned for its temple dedicated to the god Horus, who was worshipped as a falcon. The city also served as a major trading hub and a center of religious and administrative activities.

Modern-Day Significance

Today, Damanhur is a thriving city with a population of over 300,000. It remains an important agricultural and industrial center, producing cotton, rice, and dairy products. The city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and art galleries. Damanhur’s ancient history is still evident in its many historical sites, including the monumental temple complex of Horus, which attracts visitors from around the world. The city’s modern infrastructure and amenities, combined with its rich cultural heritage, make it a popular destination for both tourists and residents.