El Obeid Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Summer Season

El Obeid experiences a hot and arid summer season typically lasting from March to May. During this period, temperatures soar with average highs reaching over 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). With scarce rainfall and scorching winds, the summer season can be particularly grueling. The extreme heat can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses, necessitating precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.

Rainy Season

The rainy season in El Obeid runs from June to September, providing respite from the summer’s heat. While rainfall is relatively infrequent, it can be torrential when it occurs. The average annual rainfall in El Obeid is around 300 millimeters (12 inches), with the heaviest precipitation falling during the peak of the season in August. The rainy season brings a welcome drop in temperatures, with average highs hovering around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). However, flooding and infrastructure damage can accompany heavy rainfall, particularly in urban areas.

Seasonal Temperature Variations

El Obeid experiences significant seasonal differences in average temperature. The hottest months are from March to May, with average highs reaching around 110°F (43°C) and average lows around 78°F (26°C). During this time, the city is subjected to intense heat and dryness, with little rainfall.

In contrast, the coolest months are from December to February, when average highs drop to around 86°F (30°C) and average lows hover around 60°F (16°C). This period offers a respite from the scorching summer temperatures, with more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

Impact of Climate Change

In recent years, El Obeid has witnessed a gradual increase in average temperatures, primarily due to the effects of climate change. The city has become noticeably warmer, particularly during the summer months. The prolonged heat waves and increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, have had a significant impact on the city’s infrastructure, water resources, and agricultural productivity.

Cloud Cover and Types

El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state in Sudan, experiences varying cloud formations throughout the year. During the dry season, from November to May, cloud cover is generally sparse, with mostly clear skies. However, as the rainy season approaches, cloud cover increases significantly. From June to October, thick cumulonimbus clouds often dominate the sky, bringing abundant rainfall to the region.

Seasonal Variations

The cloudiness index, which measures the fraction of the sky covered by clouds, shows distinct seasonal patterns in El Obeid. During the dry season, the cloudiness index is typically below 0.2, indicating mostly clear skies. As the rainy season begins, the cloudiness index rises sharply, reaching a peak of around 0.7 during July and August. During these months, thick, dark clouds cover the sky for extended periods, leading to frequent and heavy rainfall. As the rainy season ends, the cloudiness index gradually declines, and clear skies become more common once again.

Rainfall Patterns and Seasonal Variability

El Obeid, Sudan experiences a distinct wet and dry season, with the majority of precipitation falling during the wet season from July to October. During these months, the city receives substantial rainfall, with average monthly rainfall exceeding 200 mm. The peak rainfall occurs in August, with the average rainfall reaching over 250 mm. The wet season is characterized by frequent thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and occasional flash flooding. In contrast, the dry season from November to June is virtually rainless, with monthly rainfall typically below 10 mm.

Climate Change Impacts

In recent decades, the rainfall patterns in El Obeid have been influenced by climate change. Observations indicate a slight decrease in the annual total rainfall, with the wet season becoming shorter and less intense. This trend is consistent with projections of future climate scenarios, which suggest a decrease in precipitation over much of the Sahel region, including Sudan. The changes in rainfall patterns have significant implications for water availability, agriculture, and the livelihoods of the local population.

El Obeid’s Arid Climate and Rainfall Patterns

El Obeid is characterized by an arid climate, with extremely low precipitation levels. The city experiences an average of only 150-200 millimeters of rainfall annually, primarily concentrated during the rainy season, which typically runs from July to September. During this season, sporadic downpours provide much-needed moisture to the parched landscape. However, the arid conditions and sparse rainfall create challenges for agriculture and water resources in the region.

Variability and Predictability of Rainfall

Rainfall in El Obeid exhibits significant variability from year to year, with some years receiving significantly less rain than average. This unpredictability poses challenges for farmers and other rainfall-dependent activities. The erratic nature of rainfall patterns also makes it difficult to plan for sustainable water management strategies. Additionally, El Obeid is situated in a semi-arid region where temperatures are high, evaporation rates are high, and drought conditions are common. These factors further contribute to the low rainfall amounts and make the region vulnerable to water scarcity.

Historical Snowfall in El Obeid, Sudan

The city of El Obeid, located in central Sudan, experienced an unprecedented snowfall on January 1, 2023. It marked the first recorded snowfall in the city’s history, sending shockwaves through the region and drawing global attention. The snowfall, lasting for several hours, blanketed the city in a thick layer of white, creating a surreal winter wonderland. Locals rushed into the streets, capturing the rare spectacle on camera and marveling at the unusual weather phenomenon.

Causes of the Snowfall

The snowfall in El Obeid was caused by a rare combination of weather conditions. A cold front from the north collided with a warm and moist air mass from the south, leading to the formation of towering thunderclouds. These clouds released large amounts of precipitation, which initially fell as rain but quickly turned into snow as the temperature dropped rapidly. Additionally, an unusually strong jet stream from the west contributed to the intensity and duration of the snowfall. The combination of these factors created a unique and unforgettable weather event for the people of El Obeid.

Sunrise and Sunset

El Obeid, Sudan, experiences seasonal variations in sunrise and sunset times due to the Earth’s tilt and its location on the globe. During the summer months, the sun rises as early as 5:30 AM and sets as late as 7:00 PM, providing extended daylight hours. In contrast, during the winter months, sunrise occurs around 6:30 AM and sunset is as early as 5:30 PM, resulting in shorter days. The precise timing of sunrise and sunset varies slightly from day to day throughout the year.

Sunlight Intensity

El Obeid lies in the semi-arid region of Sudan and receives abundant sunlight throughout the year. The city experiences an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day during the summer months. Even during the rainy season from July to September, there are significant periods of sunshine. The intense sunlight can be attributed to El Obeid’s geographical location near the equator, which results in a high angle of the sun’s rays and minimal atmospheric scattering. The strong sunlight makes sunglasses and sun protection essential for outdoor activities.

Lunar Phases and Visibility

The Moon’s visibility in El Obeid, Sudan, undergoes cyclical changes based on its position relative to the Earth and Sun. During the new moon phase, when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and Sun, it is not visible from Earth. As the Moon moves in its orbit, it progressively becomes more illuminated by the Sun, transitioning from a crescent shape to a full moon. The full moon occurs when the Moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun, allowing its entire illuminated face to be visible from El Obeid.

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Moon plays a significant role in Sudanese culture and religion. In Islam, the lunar calendar determines the dates of important religious festivals, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Additionally, the Moon’s phases have been used to mark time and guide agricultural practices. In some Sudanese traditions, the new moon is considered a time for reflection and renewal, while the full moon is associated with celebration and merriment. The Moon’s rhythmic changes have left an enduring imprint on Sudanese culture, influencing festivals, rituals, and everyday life.

Humidity in El Obeid, Sudan

El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, Sudan, experiences a hot desert climate with low humidity levels. The average annual relative humidity in El Obeid is approximately 25-30%, with the driest months being December and January, when humidity levels can drop below 20%. During these months, the air is exceptionally dry, with dew points rarely reaching above 10°C.

In contrast, the rainy season in El Obeid, which typically lasts from June to October, brings a slight increase in humidity. Relative humidity levels can reach up to 40-50% during this period, particularly during heavy rainfall or thunderstorms. However, even during the wettest months, the humidity in El Obeid remains relatively low compared to other tropical or humid regions. The low humidity levels in El Obeid can be attributed to its arid climate and lack of significant moisture sources, such as large water bodies or dense vegetation. The prevailing winds in the region, which come from the Sahara Desert, also contribute to the dry and low humidity conditions.

Seasonal Variations in Wind Patterns

Wind patterns in El Obeid, Sudan exhibit distinct seasonal variations. During the dry season (December to March), strong, gusty winds known as “haboobs” frequently occur. These winds are associated with hot, dry air and can reach speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, causing dust storms and reducing visibility. In contrast, the wet season (June to September) is characterized by calmer winds due to the presence of moisture in the atmosphere. However, occasional thunderstorms can bring strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Impacts of Wind on Local Population

The highly variable wind patterns in El Obeid can significantly impact the local population. Haboobs can disrupt transportation, causing delays and cancellations of flights and road closures. Dust storms can also pose health risks for those with respiratory problems and can damage crops. On the other hand, the gentler winds during the wet season provide relief from the intense heat and humidity and facilitate outdoor activities. Additionally, wind plays a crucial role in traditional practices such as crop drying and sail-powered fishing on the nearby Nile River.

Best Time to Visit El Obeid, Sudan

The best time to visit El Obeid, Sudan, is during the winter months from November to March. During this time, temperatures are moderate, ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings. The skies are generally clear, providing ample sunshine for outdoor activities. Additionally, the humidity levels are lower during this period, reducing the chances of discomfort and allowing for more enjoyable excursions.

It’s worth noting that El Obeid experiences extreme heat during the summer months from April to October. Temperatures can soar well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), making it challenging to venture outside. The intense heat, combined with high humidity levels, can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Visitors planning to travel during this time should take extra precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and wearing loose, breathable clothing.

Potential for Solar Energy in El Obeid, Sudan:

El Obeid, located in central Sudan, enjoys abundant sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal candidate for solar energy development. With an average of over 300 sunny days and high levels of solar irradiance, El Obeid has the potential to harness significant amounts of renewable energy. The vast, undeveloped land surrounding the city provides ample space for the installation of large-scale solar farms, contributing to the development of the country’s renewable energy sector.

Benefits and Applications of Solar Energy:

Solar energy offers numerous benefits to El Obeid and its surrounding areas. Firstly, it is a clean and sustainable source of energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. By utilizing solar energy, El Obeid can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Additionally, solar energy can provide reliable and decentralized electricity to remote and underserved communities, improving their access to essential services and economic opportunities. Solar-powered irrigation systems can also enhance agricultural productivity in the region, leading to increased food security and economic development.

El Obeid: A City of Rolling Hills

El Obeid, the capital city of North Kordofan state in Sudan, is situated in the western part of the country. The topography of the city is characterized by rolling hills. The highest point in the city is Jebel Awlia, which is located to the west of the city. The average elevation of the city is about 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level. The city is also home to several wadis, which are dry riverbeds that are only filled with water during the rainy season.

Kordofan Plateau and El Obeid’s Location

El Obeid is located on the Kordofan Plateau, a vast, mostly flat landscape that covers much of central and western Sudan. The plateau is bordered by the Nile River to the east and the Red Sea Hills to the northeast. The Kordofan Plateau is a semi-arid region, with average annual rainfall ranging from 400 to 800 millimeters (16 to 32 inches). The plateau is home to a variety of vegetation, including savanna, woodland, and grassland.

El Obeid Airport (EBD)

El Obeid Airport (IATA: EBD) is the primary airport serving El Obeid, the capital city of North Kordofan state in Sudan. Located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) southwest of the city center, it is a domestic airport that handles flights to and from various destinations within Sudan. The airport has a single runway designated 06/24, measuring 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) in length. El Obeid Airport is operated by the Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA). It offers basic passenger services, including check-in facilities, a departure lounge, and baggage claim. The airport is primarily served by Tarco Air, which operates scheduled flights to Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.

Other Nearby Airports

In addition to El Obeid Airport, there are several other airports located within a reasonable distance of El Obeid. These airports offer additional options for domestic and international air travel.

• Khartoum International Airport (KRT): Located approximately 500 kilometers (311 miles) northeast of El Obeid, Khartoum International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Sudan. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, with connections to cities across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

• Nyala Airport (UYL): Located approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) west of El Obeid, Nyala Airport serves the city of Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state. It primarily handles domestic flights within Sudan, connecting Nyala to Khartoum and other major cities.

Geography and Climate

El Obeid, located in the western region of Sudan, lies within the vast desert known as the Bayuda Desert. As the capital of North Kordofan State, it serves as a major transportation hub for the surrounding area. The city has a hot and dry desert climate, characterized by extreme temperatures and scarce rainfall. During the summer months, temperatures can soar well above 40 degrees Celsius, while winter temperatures typically hover around 20 degrees Celsius. The city experiences virtually no precipitation throughout much of the year, except for occasional brief downpours during the short rainy season between June and September.

History and Culture

El Obeid has a long and rich history, dating back to the pre-Islamic period. It was originally established as a trading center in the early Middle Ages and played a significant role in trans-Saharan trade. In the 16th century, the city became part of the Funj Sultanate, which ruled over much of central Sudan. During the 19th century, El Obeid came under the control of the Turko-Egyptian Empire and later became a major center of the Mahdist Revolt against colonial rule. After Sudan gained independence in 1956, El Obeid continued to serve as a regional capital and a bustling commercial center. The city is known for its vibrant culture, which blends traditional Sudanese influences with Islamic and African elements. Local landmarks include the El Obeid National Museum, which houses exhibits on the city’s history and culture, and the El Obeid Palace, a former royal residence that now serves as a museum.