Kurmuk Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Sudan

Climate

Kurmuk, Sudan, experiences a tropical savanna climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season typically spans from October to April, bringing intense heat and minimal rainfall. Temperatures soar during this time, reaching highs of around 43°C (109°F) in April, the warmest month. The wet season, lasting from May to September, brings much-needed relief from the scorching heat and sees a significant increase in precipitation. During this season, rainfall levels average around 800 mm (32 inches), with heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms.

Average Weather Year Round

The average temperature in Kurmuk throughout the year varies considerably between the wet and dry seasons. During the dry season, temperatures range from around 25°C (77°F) in the early morning to 35°C (95°F) in the afternoon. Nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as 15°C (59°F) in January, the coldest month. In the wet season, temperatures remain relatively consistent, averaging around 28°C (82°F) throughout the day and night. Rainfall is heaviest during the months of May, June, and July, with average precipitation levels exceeding 150 mm (6 inches) per month.

Annual Temperature Patterns

The climate of Kurmuk, Sudan is classified as tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is approximately 27 degrees Celsius (80.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The warmest months are March and April, when average temperatures can reach up to 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The coldest months are December and January, when temperatures can drop to an average of 21 degrees Celsius (69.8 degrees Fahrenheit).

Seasonal Variations

During the wet season, which runs from May to October, Kurmuk experiences heavy rainfall, resulting in higher humidity and slightly cooler temperatures. The average precipitation during this period is around 1,000 millimeters (39.4 inches). The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by lower rainfall and drier conditions. Temperatures during this time remain relatively constant, with little variation between day and night.

Cloud Types and Weather Patterns

Kurmuk, Sudan, is located in the tropical zone and experiences a variety of cloud types throughout the year. During the wet season (April-October), cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds dominate the sky, bringing heavy rainfall. Cumulus clouds are characterized by their rounded, puffy appearance, while cumulonimbus clouds are taller and more anvil-shaped, often associated with thunderstorms. During the dry season (November-March), cirrus and stratus clouds are more common. Cirrus clouds are high, wispy clouds composed of ice crystals and indicate stable atmospheric conditions. Stratus clouds are low, gray clouds that cover the entire sky, often bringing drizzle or light rain.

Role of Clouds in the Environment

Clouds play a vital role in the local environment of Kurmuk. They provide shade and humidity, which helps regulate the temperature and prevents the area from becoming too hot or dry. Clouds also act as a source of precipitation, bringing much-needed rainfall that supports agriculture and plant life. The different cloud types can also provide information about the prevailing weather patterns and can be used to predict changes in the weather. For example, the presence of cumulonimbus clouds often indicates the approach of a storm, while cirrus clouds may signal the onset of a dry spell.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Kurmuk, Sudan experiences distinct wet and dry seasons, with the majority of annual precipitation falling during the rainy season from May to October. The annual precipitation average ranges from 1,000 to 1,200 millimeters (39 to 47 inches). The wettest months are July and August, which receive an average of over 200 millimeters (8 inches) of rain each. During these months, heavy rainfall events can lead to flash floods and erosion.

Seasonal Variability and Climate Change

The annual precipitation in Kurmuk is subject to considerable seasonal variability, with dry years and wet years occurring irregularly. In recent decades, there has been a trend towards decreasing precipitation during the rainy season. This decline is attributed to climate change and is expected to continue in the future. As a result, Kurmuk and the surrounding region are facing increased water stress and a higher risk of droughts.

Rainfall Patterns

Kurmuk, Sudan, experiences distinct rainfall patterns characterized by a single rainy season that typically spans from April to October. During this period, the average monthly rainfall ranges from 50 to 65 millimeters, reaching its peak in August, with an average of over 70 millimeters. The onset and cessation of the rainy season can vary slightly from year to year, influenced by factors such as the interaction of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) with local atmospheric conditions.

Seasonal Variations

The dry season in Kurmuk extends from November to March, with minimal rainfall and average monthly precipitation below 5 millimeters. During this period, temperatures rise, and the landscape dries up, with sparse vegetation. The transition between the rainy and dry seasons is often marked by strong winds and dust storms, which can significantly reduce visibility and affect transportation. The annual rainfall in Kurmuk ranges from 600 to 800 millimeters, with occasional variations due to the influence of large-scale climate patterns such as El Niño and La Niña.

History of Snowfall in Kurmuk

Kurmuk, a small town located in southeastern Sudan, is known for its arid climate and scorching temperatures. However, on rare occasions, the town has experienced snowfall. The most notable snowfall occurred in 1962, when a heavy storm blanketed the town in a thick layer of snow. The snowfall lasted for several hours, causing widespread amazement and excitement among the local population. Since then, there have been isolated reports of light snowfall in Kurmuk, but none have been as significant as the snowfall of 1962.

Impact of Snowfall

Snowfall in Kurmuk is a highly unusual event, and it can have several impacts on the local community. The most immediate impact is the disruption of daily life. Schools, businesses, and other activities are typically closed during snowfall, and travel becomes difficult due to the slippery conditions. Additionally, the cold temperatures can pose a health risk to the elderly and vulnerable populations. However, snowfall can also have a positive impact on Kurmuk. The snow provides a rare opportunity for locals to enjoy winter sports and activities, such as sledding and snowballs. It also creates a beautiful winter landscape, which attracts visitors from other parts of the country.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Kurmuk, Sudan

Kurmuk, a town located in the Blue Nile State of Sudan, experiences significant seasonal variation in its sunrise and sunset times due to its geographical position near the equator. During the summer months (June to September), the sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets around 6:00 PM, providing approximately 12 hours of daylight. Conversely, in the winter months (December to March), sunrise occurs around 7:00 AM and sunset around 5:30 PM, resulting in shorter days with approximately 10 hours of daylight.

Solar Radiation and Intensity

Kurmuk receives abundant sunlight throughout the year due to its location in the tropical zone. The town experiences an average of 3,600 sunlight hours annually, corresponding to approximately 10 hours of sunshine per day. The intensity of solar radiation is also high, with daily values reaching around 600 watts per square meter (W/m2) during the peak of the dry season (December to March). This intense solar radiation contributes to the region’s arid climate and provides ample opportunities for solar energy development and utilization.

Moon Visibility

During New Moon, the moon is not visible from Kurmuk, Sudan. The next New Moon is on March 21, 2023. During Full Moon, the moon is fully visible from Kurmuk, Sudan. The next Full Moon is on April 6, 2023.

Moonrise and Moonset

The moon rises in the east and sets in the west. In Kurmuk, Sudan, the moon rises at 6:12 AM and sets at 6:16 PM on March 8, 2023. The moon will rise at 6:35 AM and set at 6:53 PM on April 6, 2023.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Kurmuk, Sudan experiences distinct humidity patterns throughout the year. During the dry season, which extends from November to April, humidity levels are generally low, averaging around 40-50%. This is due to the predominantly dry and arid atmosphere, with minimal rainfall and infrequent humidity-inducing weather systems.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

As the rainy season approaches in May, humidity levels in Kurmuk rise significantly. The increase in atmospheric moisture and precipitation leads to a rise in relative humidity, reaching an average of 80-90% during the peak rainy months (June-September). The high humidity levels during this time contribute to the oppressive heat and discomfort commonly experienced during the day. However, as the rainy season subsides in October and the dry season resumes, humidity levels begin to decrease once more, returning to the lower values observed during the dry months.

Wind Patterns and Variability

Kurmuk, located in southeastern Sudan, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by its geographical location. During the dry season (November to April), the dominant wind direction is northeasterly, bringing warm and dry winds from the Sahara Desert. These winds often carry dust particles, reducing visibility and contributing to dry atmospheric conditions.

During the rainy season (May to October), the wind direction shifts to southwesterly, bringing moist and humid winds from the Atlantic Ocean. These winds contribute to increased rainfall and humidity, moderating the dry season’s harsh conditions. The wind speed generally varies between 5 and 20 knots, with occasional strong gusts during storms.

Impact on Climate and Vegetation

The prevailing winds in Kurmuk have a significant impact on the local climate and vegetation. The dry northeasterly winds enhance evaporation, leading to arid conditions and sparse vegetation cover. The southwesterly winds, on the other hand, bring moisture and support the growth of savanna grasslands and isolated trees.

Moreover, the dust carried by the dry winds contributes to soil erosion and air pollution, affecting human health and agricultural productivity. The shifting wind patterns during the different seasons create a dynamic and varied ecosystem in Kurmuk, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal life.

Seasonality and Weather

Kurmuk, Sudan, experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from May to October, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures during this period are generally high, with highs reaching into the mid-thirties Celsius. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by low rainfall and warm temperatures. The skies are usually clear, and temperatures during the day can be hot, while nights can be cool.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kurmuk depends on personal preferences and the type of activities desired. During the wet season, the lush green landscapes are at their peak, and the birdlife is abundant. However, the heavy rainfall can make travel challenging, and some roads may become impassable. Visitors seeking to explore the natural beauty of the area and participate in outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing may prefer the wet season.

Alternatively, the dry season offers more favorable conditions for travel and sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the roads are dry and easily accessible. Temperatures are generally warm during the day, but pleasant in the evenings. Visitors interested in visiting cultural sites, engaging with local communities, or exploring the historical significance of the region may find the dry season more suitable for their needs.

Solar Potential and Development

Kurmuk, Sudan, boasts abundant solar resources, making it a prime location for solar energy utilization. The region has an average daily solar radiation of over 6 kWh/m², with high levels of sunshine throughout the year. This potential has led to the development of several solar projects in the area. In 2019, a 1 MW solar photovoltaic plant was commissioned, providing electricity to over 10,000 households. Additionally, smaller-scale solar systems have been installed in homes and businesses, contributing to rural electrification and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Sustainable Energy and Economic Growth

The development of solar energy in Kurmuk has multiple benefits for the local community. It provides a clean and renewable source of electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmental sustainability. Access to reliable electricity empowers local businesses, enhancing economic activity and job creation. Furthermore, solar energy reduces dependency on imported fuels, saving foreign exchange and fostering local energy independence. By harnessing its solar potential, Kurmuk can transition to a sustainable energy future while driving economic development and improving the well-being of its citizens.

Hills and Plains:

Kurmuk’s topography is characterized by rolling hills interspersed with flat plains. The Hills of Kurmuk, a series of low hills running parallel to the Blue Nile River, form a prominent feature in the region. These hills provide natural barriers and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The plains, on the other hand, extend across the eastern region and are known for their vast, open spaces and fertile soil. The terrain gradually slopes towards the Blue Nile River, creating a diverse topography that supports various ecosystems and agricultural activities.

River Systems:

The Blue Nile River is the dominant water system in Kurmuk. It flows through the region, dividing it into two distinct areas: the east bank and the west bank. The Blue Nile provides a vital source of water for irrigation, drinking, and fishing. Its banks are characterized by fertile floodplains that support a rich biodiversity. Numerous tributaries converge with the Blue Nile within Kurmuk, including the Khor Kurmuk, Khor Tumat, and Khor Gedad. These tributaries create a complex network of rivers and streams, forming a crucial part of the region’s hydrology and shaping its topography.

El Obeid Airport (EBD)

The closest airport to Kurmuk, Sudan, is El Obeid Airport (EBD), located approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) to the west. EBD is a regional airport that serves the city of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state. The airport has a single asphalt runway that can accommodate small to medium-sized aircraft. EBD offers scheduled flights to Khartoum International Airport (KRT), the main international gateway into Sudan. From KRT, travelers can connect to regional and international destinations.

Other Nearby Airports

In addition to El Obeid Airport, there are two other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Kurmuk. Damazin Airport (DZN) is located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) to the southeast, while Gedaref Airport (GSU) is located approximately 300 kilometers (187 miles) to the northeast. However, both DZN and GSU have limited flight schedules and are primarily used for domestic flights within Sudan. Travelers looking for a wider range of flight options may prefer to fly into El Obeid Airport.

Geography and History

Kurmuk is a town in southeastern Sudan, located in the Blue Nile State near the border with Ethiopia. It is situated on the banks of the Kurmuk River, a tributary of the Blue Nile. The area around Kurmuk has been inhabited for centuries and was once part of the kingdom of Aksum. It was later occupied by the Ottoman Empire and then by the British. Sudan gained independence in 1956, and Kurmuk became part of the Blue Nile State.

Conflict and Displacement

Kurmuk has been the site of conflict and displacement due to its proximity to the border with Ethiopia. In 2011, fighting erupted between Sudanese and Ethiopian forces over a disputed border area. The conflict resulted in the displacement of thousands of civilians from Kurmuk and surrounding villages. Many of these displaced persons sought refuge in neighboring Ethiopia. The situation in Kurmuk remains volatile, and the population continues to be affected by the conflict.