Manfalut Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Egypt

Climate Overview

Manfalut experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by year-round high temperatures and extremely low precipitation. During the summer months (June-August) average temperatures soar to the mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit), with highs reaching 40 degrees or higher. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures hovering around 15-20 Celsius (60s Fahrenheit). The city receives an average of only 10 millimeters (less than half an inch) of rain annually, making it one of the driest regions in Egypt.

Average Weather Year Round

The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is 15 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit), with minimum temperatures dropping to a chilly 6 degrees (43 Fahrenheit) at night. By April, temperatures begin to rise rapidly, reaching 25 degrees (77 Fahrenheit) in May. The hottest months are July and August, when average temperatures peak at 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit). Nights remain relatively warm, with average lows around 25 degrees (77 Fahrenheit). September marks the onset of autumn, bringing with it a gradual cooling trend. By December, temperatures have returned to the mid-teens (50s Fahrenheit), completing the annual cycle.

Summer in Manfalut

Manfalut experiences scorching summers with average temperatures consistently above 30°C (86°F). The hottest months are June through August, with average high temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F) or higher. Low temperatures during the summer months typically hover around 20°C (68°F), providing little respite from the daytime heat. Summer in Manfalut is characterized by a dry climate with little to no precipitation, intensifying the heat and making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Winter in Manfalut

Winters in Manfalut are mild and pleasant. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day. Nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as 5°C (41°F), but frosts are rare. Winter rainfall is sporadic but can be heavier than in other seasons. The driest months are May and June, while December and January typically experience the most precipitation.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation Patterns

Manfalut, Egypt, experiences a desert climate with minimal rainfall throughout the year. Cloud cover in the region is typically low, with an average of less than 10% coverage. During the summer months, clear skies are prevalent, while during the winter, there may be occasional periods of cirrus or high-altitude clouds. Precipitation is scarce, averaging less than 10 mm (0.4 inches) per year. The infrequent rainfall tends to occur during the winter months, usually in the form of brief thunderstorms.

Role of Cloud Cover in Temperature Regulation

The low levels of cloud cover in Manfalut have a significant impact on the temperature regime. During the day, the clear skies allow for the intense sunlight to directly heat the surface, resulting in high daytime temperatures. At night, however, the lack of cloud cover allows for rapid radiative cooling, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. This diurnal temperature range can often exceed 20 degrees Celsius (36 degrees Fahrenheit), creating a stark contrast between day and night temperatures. The low cloud cover also contributes to the region’s aridity, as clouds play a vital role in trapping water vapor and creating precipitation.

Precipitation Patterns

Manfalut, Egypt, experiences an arid climate characterized by extremely low annual precipitation. The average annual rainfall is less than 5 millimeters, with most occurring during the rare winter months when temperatures are slightly cooler. Precipitation is highly erratic and can vary significantly from year to year. During dry years, the city may receive no rainfall at all. The lack of consistent precipitation creates a challenging environment for agriculture and water resources.

Factors Influencing Precipitation

The scarcity of precipitation in Manfalut is primarily due to its location within the rain shadow of the Red Sea Hills. The hills act as a barrier, blocking moisture-carrying clouds from reaching the city. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Sahara Desert contributes to its arid climate. The hot, dry air of the desert reduces the formation of clouds and inhibits precipitation. The prevailing wind patterns also play a role, as they typically originate from the north and carry little moisture towards Manfalut.

Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall in Manfalut, Egypt, is scarce and erratic, reflecting the region’s arid climate. Annual precipitation averages a mere 15-20 millimeters, concentrated primarily during the winter months (December-March). Sporadic rainfall events can occur outside this period, but they rarely exceed 10 millimeters. The lack of consistent rainfall poses significant challenges for agriculture, as crops rely heavily on irrigation from the Nile River.

Causes of Aridity

The aridity of Manfalut, Egypt, is primarily attributed to its geographic location. Situated in the rain shadow of the Red Sea Hills to the east and the Sahara Desert to the west, the city receives limited moisture from the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the prevailing winds blow hot, dry air from the desert, further restricting rainfall formation. The high temperatures and low humidity also contribute to the evaporation of any moisture that does reach the area, exacerbating the arid conditions.

Historical Occurrence of Snowfall in Manfalut

Manfalut, Egypt, is a municipality located in the Nile Delta region. Historically, snowfall in Manfalut has been an extremely rare occurrence, with only a handful of recorded instances. The most recent snowfall occurred on January 13th, 2021, when a light dusting of snow blanketed the city for a brief period. Prior to this, the last known snowfall in Manfalut was in December 1985, nearly 36 years earlier.

Impacts of Snowfall on Manfalut

Snowfall in Manfalut can have significant consequences for the local population and infrastructure. The sudden drop in temperatures can cause health issues, particularly for the elderly and young children. Additionally, the snow accumulation can disrupt transportation services, making it difficult for residents to travel or commute. The lack of familiarity with snow-related hazards can also increase the risk of accidents or injuries. Moreover, the weight of the snow can damage buildings, power lines, and other structures, leading to power outages and infrastructure failures.

Sun’s Influence on Manfalut, Egypt

Manfalut, a city amidst the fertile Nile Delta in Egypt, experiences the profound influence of the sun throughout the year. With an average of over 3,400 sunshine hours annually, the city enjoys a temperate climate characterized by hot, dry summers. During these months, the sun’s relentless rays descend upon Manfalut, casting an ethereal golden glow upon its ancient buildings and bustling streets. Temperatures routinely soar, reaching highs of up to 40 degrees Celsius, testing the endurance of locals and visitors alike. Nonetheless, the sun’s presence nourishes the city’s vibrant agricultural sector, promoting the growth of crops such as cotton, sugarcane, and fruits.

Sun’s Impact on Culture and Tradition

The sun’s omnipresent nature in Manfalut has left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural tapestry. The annual Mawlid al-Nabi festival, which celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, coincides with the sun’s descent upon the winter solstice. During this time, the city’s streets pulsate with life as people gather to chant religious songs, feast upon traditional dishes, and illuminate the streets with thousands of colorful lanterns. The sun’s transformative power is also evident in Manfalut’s traditional architecture. The city’s iconic mud-brick houses feature large windows and thick walls, cleverly designed to capture and retain the sun’s warmth during the chilly winter months.

Lunar Observations in Manfalut, Egypt

Manfalut, a city in southern Egypt, offers exceptional opportunities for lunar observations due to its clear skies and low levels of light pollution. The lunar disk appears with remarkable clarity, allowing astronomers and amateur stargazers to study its features in detail. The serene setting and absence of urban interference create an ideal environment for lunar photography, capturing stunning images of craters, mountains, and valleys on the Moon’s surface.

Lunar Phenomena in Manfalut

As the Moon traverses different phases throughout its orbit around Earth, observers in Manfalut can witness spectacular lunar phenomena. During full Moons, the entire lunar disk is illuminated by sunlight, showcasing its silvery glow and casting soft shadows on the surrounding landscape. Lunar eclipses, when Earth’s shadow eclipses the Moon, create mesmerizing celestial displays, transforming the lunar disk into a deep crimson or copper hue. Additionally, lunar transits of Jupiter and Venus, where these planets pass in front of the Moon, offer rare opportunities for observing celestial bodies in close proximity.

Seasonal Humidity

The humidity levels in Manfalut, Egypt, vary significantly throughout the year. During the hot summer months from May to September, temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, often exceeding 60%. The air becomes thick and muggy, making it uncomfortable to be outdoors for extended periods. However, during the winter months from November to March, humidity levels drop significantly, typically falling below 40%. The air becomes much drier and clearer, providing a more comfortable outdoor environment.

Impact of the Nile River

The proximity of the Nile River to Manfalut has a significant impact on the humidity levels in the area. The river acts as a source of moisture, releasing water vapor into the atmosphere, thereby increasing humidity levels, particularly during the summer months. Additionally, the annual flooding of the Nile River also contributes to higher humidity levels as the water evaporates and adds to the moisture content of the air. As a result, areas near the river tend to experience higher humidity compared to areas further inland.

Average Wind Speed

Manfalut, Egypt, experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year. During the summer months (June to August), the average wind speed ranges from 15 to 20 kilometers per hour (9 to 12 miles per hour), providing a cooling breeze during the hottest time of the year. During the winter months (December to February), the average wind speed decreases slightly to 10 to 15 kilometers per hour (6 to 9 miles per hour). Spring and autumn generally fall within these ranges, with slightly higher speeds in autumn due to increased atmospheric instability.

Wind Direction

The predominant wind direction in Manfalut is from the northwest, which is typical for much of Egypt. These winds are influenced by the prevailing northwesterly airflow across the Mediterranean Sea and are channeled through the Nile River Valley. Occasionally, southern winds may bring warm, dry air from the Sahara Desert, but these are less common and typically occur during the summer months. The wind direction is generally consistent throughout the day, with only slight variations.

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Manfalut is characterized by pleasant temperatures and blossoming flora. March and April offer warm days and cool nights, perfect for exploring the city’s historical sites and natural attractions. As the weather starts to warm in May, the vibrant colors of the surrounding fields and gardens come to life, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby mountains or taking a relaxing boat trip along the Nile River.

Autumn (October-November):

In autumn, Manfalut experiences milder temperatures, making it a comfortable time to visit. October is typically the warmest month in autumn, with warm days and cool nights. The fields turn a golden hue as the crops ripen, providing picturesque views for visitors. November can bring occasional showers, but these usually come as brief bursts, offering a refreshing change from the summer heat. Autumn is a great time for visiting the city’s museums and cultural sites, as well as exploring the thriving local markets and bazaars.

Potential of Solar Energy in Manfalut

Manfalut, a city located in the central Egyptian governorate of Assiut, possesses significant potential for solar energy exploitation. The region enjoys high solar radiation levels throughout the year, with an average solar insolation of over 5.5 kWh/m²/day. The clear skies and minimal cloud cover create an ideal environment for harnessing solar energy. Moreover, the extensive availability of suitable land in Manfalut’s desert areas offers ample space for large-scale solar power installations.

Development and Prospects

In recognition of its solar potential, Manfalut has embarked on several solar energy projects. The largest of these is the 100 MW Manfalut Solar Power Project, commissioned in 2020. This project utilizes photovoltaic technology to convert sunlight into electricity and is expected to generate approximately 180 GWh of clean energy annually. Additionally, there are several smaller solar installations in and around Manfalut, contributing to the city’s growing renewable energy sector. With its favorable conditions, Manfalut has the potential to become a hub for solar energy development in Egypt, attracting further investments in this rapidly expanding industry. Extensive expansion of solar power projects in Manfalut can help reduce the city’s reliance on conventional fuels, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable urban development.

Tributary of the Nile

Manfalut is situated on the eastern bank of the Nile River, in a region known as the Nile Valley. The Nile Valley is a narrow, fertile plain that runs through northern Egypt, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Sudan border. The Nile River is the lifeblood of Egypt, providing water for irrigation and transportation. Manfalut is located at a point where the Nile River widens and becomes more shallow, creating a natural harbor. This has made Manfalut an important port city throughout history.

Surrounding Landscape

The surrounding landscape of Manfalut is characterized by rolling hills and desert plains. The hills are composed of limestone and sandstone, and they are often covered with vegetation. The desert plains are covered with sand and gravel, and they are often used for grazing livestock. Manfalut is located in a region that is known for its hot and dry climate. The average temperature in Manfalut is 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average annual rainfall is less than 100 millimeters (4 inches).

Cairo International Airport

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the closest major airport to Manfalut, Egypt, located approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles) to the north. As the largest airport in Africa, CAI serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. It offers a wide range of airlines and destinations, making it convenient for travelers to connect to other regions of Egypt and beyond.

Minya International Airport

Minya International Airport (MYA) is a smaller airport located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) northwest of Manfalut. It primarily serves domestic flights within Egypt, connecting Manfalut to major cities such as Cairo and Alexandria. While MYA offers fewer flight options compared to CAI, it may be a more convenient choice for travelers seeking direct flights to nearby destinations or avoiding the larger crowds at Cairo International Airport.

History of Manfalut

Manfalut, an ancient city in Upper Egypt, boasts a rich historical tapestry spanning centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Pharaonic period, with archaeological evidence suggesting human habitation dating back to the Predynastic era. During the Greco-Roman period, Manfalut was known as the city of Hermopolis Magna and was dedicated to the worship of the Egyptian god Thoth, who was depicted as a baboon or ibis-headed deity associated with writing, knowledge, and wisdom. In the 4th century AD, Manfalut became a Christian stronghold, and its Coptic Orthodox population played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in Egypt.

Modern-Day Manfalut

Today, Manfalut is a thriving city with a vibrant population of over 100,000 people. It is the capital of the Manfalut District in the Asyut Governorate. The city is renowned for its agricultural productivity, particularly in the cultivation of sugarcane and rice. Manfalut is also an important commercial hub, with a bustling market and several industrial zones. The city has a strong educational and cultural scene, with numerous schools and universities, as well as a rich history in the arts and literature. Manfalut is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its ancient archaeological sites and religious landmarks, including the Coptic Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George, which is believed to be one of the oldest churches in Egypt.