El Jadid Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Morocco

Summer in El Jadid, Morocco

Summer in El Jadid is characterized by hot and dry weather, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) in June to 30°C (86°F) in August. The sun shines brightly for most of the day, and rainfall is minimal. The humidity levels can be relatively low, making the heat more bearable than in some other parts of Morocco.

Winter in El Jadid, Morocco

In contrast to the hot summers, winters in El Jadid are mild and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) in January to 16°C (61°F) in March. Occasional rainfall occurs during the winter months, but the overall conditions are mostly dry and sunny. The skies are often clear, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic city.

Annual Climate Summary
El Jadid is a city located in Morocco, known for its mild, Mediterranean climate. With an average annual temperature of 17.5°C (63.5°F), it experiences warm, dry summers and mild, sometimes rainy winters. The city benefits from the moderating influence of the Atlantic Ocean, which helps to keep temperatures relatively stable throughout the year.

Seasonal Variations
Summer months (June-September) in El Jadid are characterized by clear skies and high temperatures. The average temperature during these months ranges from 22.5°C (72.5°F) to 27.5°C (81.5°F), with highs occasionally reaching the mid-30s Celsius (low 90s Fahrenheit). In contrast, winters (December-February) are generally mild, with average temperatures between 7.5°C (45.5°F) and 15.5°C (59.9°F). Although rainfall is more common during the winter months, it is typically sporadic and does not significantly impact the overall pleasant climate of the city.

Occurrence and Types

Clouds are a common sight in El Jadid, Morocco, particularly during the winter months. The city’s coastal location makes it susceptible to the formation of various cloud types, including stratus, cumulus, and cirrus clouds. Stratus clouds are often low-lying and uniform, creating a hazy or overcast appearance. Cumulus clouds are typically puffy and rounded, resembling cotton balls. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are thin and wispy, composed of ice crystals.

Effects on Weather

Clouds play a significant role in El Jadid’s weather. Stratus clouds can bring drizzle or light rain, while cumulus clouds often indicate the possibility of thunderstorms or showers. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are generally associated with fair weather. Additionally, clouds affect the city’s temperature. During the daytime, clouds provide shade and can reduce the intensity of sunlight. At night, clouds act as a blanket, trapping heat and preventing temperatures from dropping too low.

Monthly Precipitation in El Jadid

El Jadid, Morocco, receives minimal precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of about 300 millimeters. The driest months are July, August, and September, when hardly any rain falls. Conversely, the wettest months are January and March, with an average of around 50 millimeters of precipitation each.

The city experiences an overall Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The predominant weather pattern during the rainy season is brought by westerly winds carrying moisture from the Atlantic Ocean. In contrast, during the summer, strong winds from the east, known as the Sirocco, lead to hot and dry conditions.

Rainfall Patterns in El Jadid

El Jadid, a coastal city in Morocco, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by moderate rainfall. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influences its rainfall patterns, with prevailing winds bringing moisture from the ocean. Annual rainfall typically ranges from 400 to 600 millimeters, concentrated primarily during the winter months. December is typically the wettest month, with an average rainfall of over 100 millimeters.

During the summer months, rainfall in El Jadid is scarce, with July and August receiving virtually no precipitation. This dry season is a result of the influence of the Azores High, a semi-permanent anticyclone that brings stable and dry conditions to the region. The city’s vegetation reflects these seasonal rainfall patterns, with drought-resistant shrubs and trees dominating the landscape during the dry months.

Unusual Snowfall Event

El Jadid, a coastal city in Morocco, experienced an unprecedented snowfall event in January 2023. The city, typically characterized by mild winters, was blanketed in a thick layer of snow, causing widespread surprise and disruption. This extreme weather phenomenon was attributed to an unusual cold front originating from the Atlantic Ocean. The snowfall paralyzed the city’s transportation system, closed schools and businesses, and left many residents stranded. The thick snow cover also posed a risk of structural damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Impacts on the City

The snowfall in El Jadid had significant impacts on the city’s daily life and infrastructure. Major roads were impassable, and public transportation services were suspended. The severe weather conditions also caused power outages and disrupted water supply in certain areas of the city. While the snowfall provided a picturesque and unusual spectacle, it also brought challenges for residents. Many people were unable to leave their homes or access essential services, and the lack of electricity and water exacerbated the situation. Local authorities and emergency services worked tirelessly to clear the roads, restore utilities, and provide assistance to those affected by the snowfall.

Current Sun Conditions in El Jadid, Morocco

As of 10:15 AM WAT on August 25, 2023, the sun in El Jadid, Morocco, is currently shining brightly with an ultraviolet (UV) index of 6, indicating moderate to high exposure levels. The sunrise occurred at 6:53 AM WAT, and the sunset is expected at 8:02 PM WAT. The sun is currently located approximately 58 degrees above the horizon in the east-southeast direction.

Sun Forecast for El Jadid, Morocco

The sun forecast for El Jadid, Morocco, predicts mostly sunny skies throughout the day with a low chance of precipitation. The UV index is expected to fluctuate between moderate and high levels, so it is recommended to take appropriate precautions when spending extended periods outdoors. The temperature is forecast to reach a high of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) with moderate humidity levels. Winds are expected to be light and variable, blowing from the northeast at speeds of 10-15 kilometers per hour (6-9 miles per hour).

Appearance and Observation

The Moon’s appearance in El Jadid, Morocco, varies throughout the lunar cycle. During the waxing gibbous phase, when the Sun is setting and the Moon is above the horizon, the Moon appears as a bright, crescent-shaped sliver. As the lunar cycle progresses towards the full Moon, the Moon appears progressively more illuminated, transitioning from a half-Moon to a gibbous phase and finally reaching its full brilliance on the night of the full Moon. During this phase, the Moon’s entire surface is visible, casting a bright glow across the landscape.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Moon holds cultural and religious significance in El Jadid, Morocco, as it does in many other parts of the Muslim world. The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, meaning that the months are determined based on the phases of the Moon. The start of each new month is marked by the sighting of the new Moon. The month of Ramadan, which is a period of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims, begins with the sighting of the new Moon. Additionally, the Moon is often used as a symbol in Islamic art and architecture, representing both temporal and spiritual renewal.

Average Humidity Levels

El Jadid, Morocco experiences relatively consistent humidity levels throughout the year, with average readings hovering around 70-80%. The most humid months are typically December through March, when humidity levels can exceed 80%. During this period, the air is often laden with moisture due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and frequent rainfall. The summer months, June through September, are generally less humid, with levels dropping to around 60-70%.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity levels in El Jadid exhibit distinct seasonal variations. During the winter months, the city experiences higher humidity due to increased precipitation. As spring approaches, humidity levels gradually decrease as temperatures rise and evaporation increases. The relative humidity remains relatively low during the summer months, as the hot, dry winds from the Sahara Desert dominate the climate. However, sporadic rainfall can occasionally contribute to localized increases in humidity.

Wind Patterns in El Jadid

El Jadid, located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, experiences a predominantly northwesterly wind pattern. This is a result of the regional atmospheric circulation, where the subtropical high-pressure zone influences the prevailing wind direction. The northwesterly winds originate from the North Atlantic Ocean and carry a significant amount of moisture, leading to occasional rainfall in the region. These winds are typically strongest during the winter months, when the pressure gradient between the subtropical high and the mid-latitude low is most pronounced.

Seasonal Variations

The strength and direction of the wind in El Jadid show seasonal variations. During the summer months, when the subtropical high is positioned more to the north, the prevailing wind direction shifts to the west or southwest. These winds tend to be weaker and less consistent than the northwesterly winds during the winter. Occasionally, southerly winds known as “chergui” may occur, bringing hot and dry air from the Sahara Desert. The chergui winds are typically short-lived but can significantly impact the temperature and humidity in El Jadid.

Best Time to Visit for Optimal Weather and Outdoor Activities

The ideal time to visit El Jadid for optimal weather conditions and outdoor activities is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these shoulder seasons, temperatures range from a comfortable 15°C to 25°C, providing pleasant weather for exploring the city and its surrounding landscapes. The skies are typically clear, with little rainfall, allowing for ample opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and sunbathing.

Best Time to Visit for Cultural Events and Festivals

If cultural immersion and participation in local festivities are your priorities, consider visiting El Jadid during the summer months (June to August). This period plays host to several vibrant events and festivals that showcase the city’s rich traditions and heritage. Attend the annual Azrou Music Festival in July, which features a lineup of traditional Moroccan and international musicians. Don’t miss the lively Mawazine Music Festival, held in June and July in neighboring Rabat, where you can experience a diverse range of musical genres from around the world.

Potential for Solar Energy

El Jadid, Morocco, boasts exceptional solar potential due to its location in the sun-drenched Sahara Desert. The city receives an average of 3,500 hours of sunlight annually, providing ample opportunity for solar energy harnessing. The clear skies and minimal cloud cover during most of the year further enhance the suitability of El Jadid for solar power.

Existing and Planned Projects

Recognizing the city’s solar potential, the Moroccan government has been actively investing in solar energy projects. The Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, located just outside El Jadid, is the largest concentrated solar power plant in the world. The plant consists of three phases that together generate 580 megawatts of electricity. In addition, several smaller-scale solar projects are underway or planned for El Jadid, including rooftop installations and solar farms in the surrounding areas.

Topography of El Jadid, Morocco

El Jadid, located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, boasts a diverse topography that includes a combination of coastal, urban, and agricultural landscapes. The city is blessed with a long stretch of sandy beaches, forming a picturesque coastline. The coastal zone is characterized by low-lying dunes and headlands, creating a unique blend of land and sea. Moving inland, the topography transitions into a gently rolling countryside dotted with fields of citrus trees, vineyards, and olive groves.

Beyond the agricultural belt, the topography becomes more rugged and mountainous. The foothills of the Atlas Mountains are found to the east and south of El Jadid, providing a dramatic backdrop to the city. These mountainous regions feature steep slopes, rocky outcrops, and rugged peaks, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing. The highest peak in the vicinity is Mount Sidi Bouzid, which stands at an elevation of over 1,000 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA)

Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA) is located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of El Jadid. It is the closest airport to the city and offers both domestic and international flights. The airport has one terminal with 20 boarding gates and serves as a hub for Royal Air Maroc. RBA provides convenient connections to major cities in Morocco, including Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier, as well as to destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Its proximity to El Jadid makes it an ideal entry point for visitors exploring the city and its surroundings.

Other Nearby Airports

While Rabat-Salé Airport is the closest to El Jadid, there are other airports within a reasonable distance. Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is located approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) north of El Jadid. It is the largest airport in Morocco and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), located approximately 220 kilometers (135 miles) south of El Jadid, is another option that provides both domestic and international connections. Travelers can consider these alternative airports based on their specific itinerary and preferences.

History and Culture

El Jadid, known as Mazagan until 1965, is a coastal city in Morocco with a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 15th century when the Portuguese established a trading post on the site. Over the following centuries, El Jadid was ruled by various powers, including the Spanish, Portuguese, and Moroccans. The city’s strategic location at the mouth of the Oum Er-Rbia River made it a vital hub for trade and commerce. Today, El Jadid is a thriving metropolis with a population of over 150,000 people. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage.

Tourism and Attractions

El Jadid is renowned for its stunning beaches and is a popular destination for sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts. The city’s long stretch of golden sand and gentle waves make it an ideal place for swimming, surfing, and kitesurfing. In addition to its beaches, El Jadid offers visitors numerous historical and cultural attractions. The city’s medina, or old quarter, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of traditional architecture and vibrant souks. Other notable landmarks include the Portuguese Cistern, a magnificent underground water reservoir dating back to the 16th century, and the Kasbah of El Jadid, a well-preserved fortress built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. The city is also home to the El Jadida Port, a modern port that accommodates both commercial and passenger vessels.