Guelmim Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Morocco

Summer in Guelmim

Characterized by scorching temperatures, summer in Guelmim spans from June to September. The average high reaches a sweltering 38°C (100°F), while the average low hovers around 24°C (75°F). The relentless heat is accompanied by a scorching sun, making outdoor activities during midday highly uncomfortable. Although rainfall is infrequent, occasional thunderstorms may provide temporary relief from the oppressive heat.

Winter in Guelmim

In stark contrast to the fiery summer, winter in Guelmim is relatively mild, lasting from November to March. The average high hovers around a pleasant 20°C (68°F), while the average low dips to a chilly 6°C (43°F). Unlike the scorching summer, winter offers a respite from the scorching sun, with less intense sunlight and a lower UV index. Sporadic showers are more prevalent during this season, but prolonged periods of rain are rare.

Average Monthly Temperatures

Guelmim, Morocco’s average monthly temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year. The hottest months are July and August, with average temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F). The coldest months are December and January, with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F). During the spring and autumn months, temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F).

Seasonal Variations

The seasons in Guelmim are distinct. Summers are hot and dry, with little rainfall. The days are typically sunny and warm, while the nights can be cooler. Winters are mild and wet, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures during the winter months can drop below 10°C (50°F) at night, but daytime temperatures remain comfortable. The spring and autumn months provide a pleasant balance, with milder temperatures and occasional precipitation.

Guelmim Cloud Cover

Guelmim, a city in southern Morocco, experiences a predominantly arid climate with low annual precipitation. Consequently, cloud cover in the region is generally sparse. During the summer months (June to September), clear skies and sunshine are prevalent, with cloud cover rarely exceeding 10%. This lack of cloud cover contributes to the scorching heat and high temperatures during this period.

Seasonal Cloud Variations

However, during the winter months (November to April), cloud cover increases slightly as the influence of mid-latitude weather systems becomes more pronounced. In December and January, cloud cover can reach an average of 20-30%, resulting in occasional cloudy days and a reduction in sunshine hours. Nonetheless, rainfall remains infrequent, and extended periods of overcast skies are rare. The transition seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), are characterized by moderate cloud cover, with a gradual increase and decrease, respectively, as the weather patterns shift between summer and winter conditions.

Annual Precipitation

Guelmim experiences a dry climate with an average annual precipitation of around 100 millimeters (4 inches). Precipitation is concentrated mainly during the winter months, from October to March, with little to no rain during the rest of the year. The wettest months are typically December and January, with an average of 20-30 millimeters of precipitation each.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

The annual precipitation cycle in Guelmim is strongly influenced by the region’s geographical location and climate patterns. During the winter months, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean is brought to the region by prevailing westerly winds, leading to increased precipitation and cloud cover. In contrast, the summer months are characterized by hot and dry conditions due to the dominance of the dry, easterly trade winds. As a result, precipitation during these months is minimal.

Rainfall Patterns

Guelmim, Morocco, experiences a semi-arid climate with minimal rainfall throughout the year. The dry season lasts from April to October, with an average of less than 10mm of precipitation per month. The rainy season extends from November to March, but rainfall is still scarce, averaging around 20-30mm per month. The annual precipitation in Guelmim typically ranges from 100-200mm, significantly lower than the national average for Morocco.

Variability and Climate Change

Rainfall in Guelmim is highly variable, with annual totals fluctuating significantly from year to year. This variability is driven by fluctuations in the intensity and frequency of rain-bearing systems reaching the area. Climate change is expected to further impact rainfall patterns in Guelmim, leading to increased variability and more intense rainfall events. This could pose challenges for water management and agriculture in the region.

Snowfall in Guelmim, Morocco: A Rare Occurrence

Guelmim, a city located in the arid region of southern Morocco, experienced a rare snowfall event in February 2023. This unusual occurrence left the city blanketed in a thick layer of snow, creating a picturesque and surreal winter wonderland. While snowfall is not uncommon in the mountainous regions of Morocco, it is highly unusual in Guelmim, which typically experiences a warm, dry climate.

The snowfall caused significant disruption to daily life in Guelmim, with roads closed and businesses and schools shut down. The residents, many of whom had never witnessed snowfall before, took to the streets to enjoy the unexpected spectacle. Children built snowmen, engaged in snowball fights, and captured the moment with their cameras. However, the snowfall also led to some challenges, with some areas experiencing power outages and limited access to transportation due to the icy conditions. Despite the disruption, the snowfall was widely celebrated by the community, offering a unique and memorable experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Climate and Average Temperatures

Guelmim, a city located in southwestern Morocco, enjoys a year-round sun-drenched climate. With an average of over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Guelmim is one of the sunniest cities in the country. Summers are characterized by hot, dry weather with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). Winters are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures hovering between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F). The city experiences very little rainfall, averaging less than 200 mm per year, contributing to its consistently sunny climate.

Seasonal Variations

Throughout the year, Guelmim’s sunshine patterns vary slightly. During the summer months (June to September), the city enjoys the longest days and the most intense sunshine, with average daily sunshine hours exceeding 10. In the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November), the sunshine hours are slightly less, ranging from 8 to 9 hours per day. Even during the winter months (December to February), Guelmim receives an abundance of sunshine, with daily sunshine hours averaging around 6-7 hours. The city’s consistent sunshine makes it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and those looking to escape the colder, cloudier conditions of other parts of the world.

Moonrise and Moonset in Guelmim, Morocco

In Guelmim, Morocco, the moon’s appearance varies throughout the month due to its orbit around Earth. The time of moonrise and moonset changes daily, providing picturesque views and influencing local life. During the full moon, the sky illuminates with a silvery glow, casting an ethereal atmosphere over the city’s streets and landscapes. The moon’s presence also impacts the local ecosystem, guiding nocturnal animals and influencing plant growth.

Moon Phases in Guelmim, Morocco

As the moon orbits Earth, its illuminated side changes, leading to various moon phases visible from Guelmim. During the new moon, the moon is not visible in the sky as it is located between Earth and the Sun. As the moon moves in its orbit, it gradually becomes visible in the form of a crescent. Over time, the illuminated portion grows, culminating in the full moon, when the entire face of the moon is lit up. This cycle repeats itself throughout the month, offering captivating celestial displays for observers in Guelmim.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Guelmim, Morocco’s southern coastal city, experiences distinct seasonal humidity patterns due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Sahara Desert. During the summer months from June to August, humidity levels soar to an average of 70%, creating a muggy and oppressive atmosphere. The prevailing northeasterly winds bring in moisture from the ocean, while the absence of significant rainfall and the hot, dry conditions prevent the air from drying out. In contrast, winter months between December and February are characterized by significantly lower humidity levels, averaging around 40%. The Sahara’s dry easterly winds dominate during this season, whisking away most of the moisture and creating a dry and crisp atmosphere.

Influence on Local Climate and Health

The fluctuating humidity levels in Guelmim have tangible effects on the local climate and human health. During the humid summer months, the high moisture content in the air makes it difficult for the body to release heat through sweating, leading to a sensation of discomfort and heat exhaustion. The muggy conditions can also contribute to respiratory issues, such as allergies and asthma, by exacerbating inflammation and reducing lung function. On the other hand, the dry winter months provide respite from humidity-related health concerns and create a more comfortable microclimate. However, the aridity can cause skin irritation, dryness, and dehydration if proper hydration measures are not taken.

Wind Patterns in Guelmim, Morocco

The city of Guelmim, located in southern Morocco, experiences a distinctive wind pattern characterized by strong, consistent winds throughout the year. These winds are primarily driven by the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the interactions between the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. During the summer months, the prevailing northeasterly trade winds (known locally as the “alizés”) dominate the weather, bringing with them refreshing breezes from the ocean. In contrast, during the winter, stronger westerly winds prevail, often bringing sandstorms and dust from the desert.

Impacts of Wind on Guelmim

The strong winds in Guelmim have a significant influence on the city’s environment and the lives of its residents. The winds shape the landscape, creating sand dunes in the surrounding desert and driving the growth of a unique vegetation dominated by drought-tolerant shrubs and trees. The strong winds also have an impact on the city’s architecture, with many traditional homes featuring wind-resistant construction styles and windbreaks. Additionally, the winds provide a natural source of energy, as wind turbines are increasingly being utilized to harness the wind’s power for electricity generation. However, the strong winds can also be a challenge for outdoor activities, such as gardening and tourism, and can carry dust and sand into the city, requiring frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an ideal time to visit Guelmim, Morocco, as the weather is pleasant with warm days and cool nights. The average temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), making it comfortable for exploring the city’s many attractions. The skies are mostly clear, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and visiting the nearby beaches. Flowers are in full bloom during this season, adding color and vibrancy to the landscape. Additionally, the city hosts its annual Guelmim Oasis Festival in May, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region through music, dance, and traditional crafts.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another great time to visit Guelmim. The weather remains mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). The skies are generally clear, offering excellent visibility for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes. The harvest season is in full swing during this period, and visitors can enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables from the local markets. The city is less crowded at this time of year, providing a more relaxed and intimate experience. Additionally, the annual Festival of Nomadic Peoples takes place in October, celebrating the traditions and lifestyles of the nomadic tribes that inhabit the region.

Solar Potential and Infrastructure

Guelmim, a city in southern Morocco, is endowed with abundant solar energy resources. Its strategic location within the Sunbelt region and the presence of vast open spaces make it a prime destination for solar development. The city’s average annual solar radiation exceeds 2,500 kWh/m², providing ample opportunity for harnessing solar energy to meet its electricity needs. To tap into this potential, Guelmim has initiated the construction of several large-scale solar power plants. The Noor Guelmim power plant, commissioned in 2021, is one of the largest solar projects in Morocco, with a capacity of 400 MW. With additional projects in the pipeline, Guelmim is poised to become a major solar energy hub in North Africa.

Benefits of Solar Energy Adoption

The adoption of solar energy in Guelmim offers numerous benefits, both environmental and economic. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, solar energy contributes to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. The construction and operation of solar power plants create new jobs and stimulate local economic growth. Moreover, solar energy can provide reliable and cost-effective electricity, especially in remote areas that lack access to traditional grid infrastructure. Guelmim’s commitment to solar energy can serve as a model for other regions seeking to transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

General Topography

Guelmim, a city in southern Morocco, is situated amidst a diverse and expansive topographic landscape. The city rests on a plateau that gradually slopes towards the nearby Guelmim Oued and Guelmim Oasis. Beyond the plateau, the topography becomes more rugged, transitioning into the foothills of the Anti-Atlas mountain range. These mountains, characterized by their steep slopes and rocky peaks, form a dramatic backdrop to the city.

Specific Features

The Guelmim Oued, a seasonal river, plays a significant role in shaping the topography of the area. The river’s meandering course has created a series of fertile river valleys and floodplains that support agricultural activities. The Guelmim Oasis, a verdant area of date palms and other vegetation, is located near the confluence of the Guelmim Oued and a tributary. Further afield, the Anti-Atlas mountains offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor pursuits. The region’s unique and varied topography offers a range of scenic vistas and recreational opportunities.

Guelmim Airport (GLN)

Guelmim Airport (GLN) is the nearest airport serving the city of Guelmim in Morocco. It is a small, regional airport located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the city center. Guelmim Airport has a single runway that is 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) long. The airport is primarily served by domestic flights operated by Royal Air Maroc, the national airline of Morocco. These flights connect Guelmim to the major cities of Casablanca, Marrakech, and Agadir. Guelmim Airport is also served by a few international flights, including flights to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands.

Other Nearby Airports

In addition to Guelmim Airport, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Guelmim. The nearest international airport is Agadir Al Massira Airport (AGA), which is located about 140 kilometers (87 miles) northwest of Guelmim. Agadir Al Massira Airport is a major international airport that is served by a wide range of airlines, including low-cost carriers. Another nearby airport is Dakhla Airport (VIL), which is located about 260 kilometers (162 miles) south of Guelmim. Dakhla Airport is primarily served by domestic flights, but it also has a few international flights to destinations in Europe.

History and Heritage

Guelmim, located in southern Morocco, has a rich history dating back to the pre-Islamic era. It was once an important stop on the trans-Saharan trade routes, connecting sub-Saharan Africa with the Mediterranean. Throughout its history, Guelmim has been ruled by various Berber dynasties, the Almoravids, and the French colonialists. In 1956, it became part of independent Morocco. Today, Guelmim is a vibrant city that celebrates its diverse cultural heritage through traditional festivals, music, and crafts.

Natural Beauty and Adventure

Guelmim is situated in a region of breathtaking natural beauty. The city is surrounded by vast sand dunes, towering mountains, and lush oases. The nearby Oued Draa, a major river that flows through the Anti-Atlas Mountains, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding desert provides excellent opportunities for sandboarding, camel trekking, and 4×4 excursions. Visitors can also explore the many ancient rock formations and fossil sites that dot the region, offering a glimpse into the area’s geological past. The scenic landscape and abundance of outdoor activities make Guelmim a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.