Marand Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Iran
Climate and Average Weather Year Round
Marand, located in northwestern Iran, experiences a continental climate with warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Throughout the year, temperatures can fluctuate drastically, ranging from -10°C (14°F) in January to 35°C (95°F) in July.
Summer in Marand is characterized by hot, sunny days and mild nights. The average temperature during June, July, and August is around 28°C (82°F). Humidity levels remain relatively low, making the heat bearable. On the other hand, winter is severe, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Snowfall is common, and the city often experiences icy conditions. The average temperature in December, January, and February is around -3°C (27°F). Winter storms can bring heavy snow and strong winds, making travel hazardous.
Average Temperature in Marand, Iran
Marand, a city located in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran, experiences a cold desert climate, characterized by large temperature fluctuations and low precipitation. The average annual temperature in Marand is around 12.2°C (53.9°F). During the summer months, temperatures can rise to an average of 27.6°C (81.7°F), while winter temperatures drop to an average of -2.6°C (27.3°F). The hottest month is July, with average temperatures reaching 31.4°C (88.5°F), and the coldest month is January, with average temperatures dropping to -6.4°C (20.5°F).
The average annual precipitation is around 260 mm (10.2 inches), making Marand a relatively dry city. Most of the precipitation falls during the winter months, with little rain during the summer. Snowfall is common during the winter, and the city experiences an average of 19.2 snowy days per year. The lack of precipitation, combined with the high temperatures during the summer, contributes to the development of deserts and steppe vegetation in the surrounding areas.
Cirrus Clouds
Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are composed of ice crystals. They are the highest clouds in the atmosphere, and they are often seen on clear days. Cirrus clouds do not produce rain or snow, but they can indicate that a change in weather is coming.
Cumulus Clouds
Cumulus clouds are puffy clouds that look like cotton balls. They are the most common type of cloud, and they are often seen on fair-weather days. Cumulus clouds can produce rain or snow, but they are not as likely to do so as other types of clouds.
Stratus Clouds
Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky. They often produce drizzle or light rain. Stratus clouds are not as common as cumulus clouds, but they are more likely to produce precipitation.
Seasonal Variability of Precipitation
Marand, Iran experiences substantial seasonal variability in precipitation. During the summer months (June to September), precipitation is scarce, with an average of less than 5 mm per month. This is due to the influence of the subtropical high-pressure system, which brings dry and stable conditions to the region. In contrast, the winter months (December to March) are much wetter, with average monthly precipitation exceeding 50 mm. This is attributed to the passage of mid-latitude cyclones that bring moisture-laden air from the Mediterranean Sea.
Orographic Effects and Elevation
The topography of Marand significantly influences precipitation patterns. The city is located at the foot of the Sahand Mountains, which create an orographic effect. As moist air rises over the mountains, it cools and condenses, resulting in increased precipitation on the windward side (facing the mountains). As a result, the northern and eastern parts of Marand receive more precipitation than the southern and western parts. Additionally, elevation plays a role, with higher elevations generally experiencing greater precipitation due to the increased likelihood of cloud formation and condensation.
Monthly Rainfall Patterns
Marand experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasonal variations in rainfall. The wet season typically spans from November to April, with the peak rainfall occurring in March. During these months, Marand receives an average of 40-60 mm (1.6-2.4 inches) of rain per month. In contrast, the dry season lasts from May to October, with very little rainfall. June and July are the driest months, receiving less than 5 mm (0.2 inches) of rain on average. The total annual rainfall in Marand ranges from 250 to 350 mm (10-14 inches), depending on seasonal variations.
Year-to-Year Variability
While the monthly rainfall patterns in Marand are generally consistent, the annual rainfall can vary significantly. In some exceptionally wet years, Marand may receive up to 500 mm (20 inches) of rain, while in dry years, the rainfall may be as low as 150 mm (6 inches). This variability is influenced by factors such as changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, as well as long-term climate oscillations like the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Years with strong El Niño events often bring heavier rainfall to Marand, while La Niña years tend to be drier. Understanding this interannual variability is crucial for water resource management and agricultural planning in the region.
Intensity and Distribution
Marand, a city in northwestern Iran, experiences significant snowfall during the winter months. The city’s location in the Zagros Mountains contributes to the heavy snowfall, with an average annual accumulation of 95 centimeters (37 inches). The snowfall is typically distributed evenly throughout the winter, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. However, the intensity and duration of snowfall can vary from year to year, influenced by factors such as atmospheric conditions and temperature fluctuations.
Impact on Daily Life and Economic Activities
The heavy snowfall in Marand can have a significant impact on daily life and economic activities. During periods of intense snowfall, roads may become impassable, leading to traffic disruptions and transportation delays. This can hinder access to essential services, such as healthcare and education, and can also disrupt daily commutes. The snowfall can also cause power outages and infrastructure damage, which can further impact daily life and economic activities. Despite these challenges, the snowfall also provides opportunities for winter sports and recreation, such as skiing and snowboarding, which can contribute to the local economy.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
The time of sunrise and sunset in Marand, Iran, varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and its position relative to the sun. During the summer months (June to August), the days are longer and the sun rises earlier and sets later. For example, on June 21st, the summer solstice, the sun rises at approximately 05:58 AM and sets at around 20:46 PM, providing approximately 14 hours and 48 minutes of daylight.
In contrast, during the winter months (December to February), the days are shorter and the sun rises later and sets earlier. On December 21st, the winter solstice, the sun rises at around 07:19 AM and sets at approximately 16:55 PM, resulting in approximately 9 hours and 36 minutes of daylight. The duration of daylight gradually increases from the winter solstice to the summer solstice and decreases from the summer solstice to the winter solstice.
Sun Angle and Intensity
The angle of the sun and its intensity also vary depending on the time of day and the season. During the early morning and late evening hours, the sun is lower in the sky, resulting in a lower sun angle and less intense sunlight. As the sun rises higher in the sky, the sun angle increases and the sunlight becomes more intense, reaching its peak intensity around midday. During the summer months, the sun is at its highest point in the sky, resulting in a higher sun angle and more intense sunlight compared to the winter months. The sun’s intensity also affects the temperature and weather conditions in Marand, with higher sun angles and intensity typically associated with warmer temperatures and clear skies.
Seasonal Variations in Humidity
Humidity levels in Marand exhibit distinct seasonal variations. Winters are characterized by low humidity, typically ranging from 30% to 40%. As temperatures rise during spring, humidity gradually increases, reaching moderate levels of 45% to 55% by late spring. Summer brings the highest humidity, with average levels exceeding 60%. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can create uncomfortable and oppressive conditions during this season. Autumn marks a transition period, with humidity gradually decreasing as temperatures cool.
Impact of Wind and Precipitation
Wind plays a significant role in influencing humidity levels in Marand. During the winter months, strong winds from the north and northwest often bring dry air, resulting in low humidity. Conversely, during the summer, southwesterly winds carry moisture from the Caspian Sea, increasing humidity levels. Precipitation, in the form of rain or snowfall, also affects humidity. After precipitation events, humidity levels typically rise due to increased water vapor in the atmosphere. However, prolonged dry spells can lead to significantly lower humidity.
Wind Patterns
Marand, Iran, experiences diverse wind patterns throughout the year. During the summer months (June to August), the prevailing wind direction is from the northwest, bringing warm and dry air from the Caspian Sea. These winds, known as the “shamal,” can be strong and gusty, especially during the afternoons. In the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), the winds become more variable, with frequent shifts in direction. During these seasons, winds from the west or southwest are common, bringing milder temperatures and occasional rainfall.
Wind Speed and Variability
Wind speeds in Marand vary significantly throughout the year. The highest wind speeds occur during the summer months, with average speeds ranging from 15 to 25 kilometers per hour (9-15 miles per hour). In the spring and fall, wind speeds decrease slightly, with average speeds of 10-15 kilometers per hour (6-9 miles per hour). The lowest wind speeds are observed during the winter months (December to February), when the average speed is around 5 kilometers per hour (3 miles per hour). Wind variability, measured by the standard deviation of wind speed, is also highest during the summer months, indicating a greater likelihood of sudden changes in wind direction and speed.
Spring: A Season of Rebirth and Tranquility
Marand, Iran, springs to life in March and April. As the winter chill subsides, the landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of blooming flowers. Vineyards awaken from their slumber, their emerald vines unfurling to embrace the warm sunshine. The air fills with the sweet scent of almond blossoms, creating an idyllic ambiance. Temperatures hover between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for leisurely strolls through the picturesque town and its enchanting surroundings. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in the symphony of bird calls that echo through the lush nature.
Autumn: A Tapestry of Vibrant Hues
As summer fades into autumn, Marand transforms into a breathtaking canvas of golden and crimson hues. The vineyards don their autumn attire, their leaves turning into a kaleidoscope of colors. The grape harvest fills the air with the intoxicating aroma of sweet wine making. Temperatures range from a crisp 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, providing the perfect backdrop for hiking through the surrounding hills and admiring the panoramic views. The nearby forests offer a stunning spectacle as the deciduous trees shed their foliage, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring sight.
Solar Potential
Marand, Iran, possesses exceptional solar potential due to its geographical location within the “Sun Belt.” The city receives an average of 5.5 kWh/m2 of solar radiation per day, making it an attractive area for solar energy development. The abundance of sunshine provides opportunities for both large-scale solar power plants and decentralized rooftop installations. The government of Iran has recognized this potential and has implemented policies to promote solar energy uptake in the region.
Solar Project Development
Several solar projects have been developed in Marand, contributing to the city’s renewable energy portfolio. The largest of these is the 100 MW Meymand Solar Power Plant, which was commissioned in 2019. The plant utilizes photovoltaic (PV) technology to convert sunlight into electricity, generating enough power to meet the needs of over 50,000 households. Additionally, numerous smaller PV systems have been installed on rooftops across the city, allowing residents to generate their own clean energy and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. These projects demonstrate the growing adoption of solar energy in Marand and its potential to contribute to the city’s sustainable development goals.
Mountainous Terrains:
Marand, located in northwestern Iran, is characterized by a predominantly mountainous terrain. The city lies at the foot of Mount Sahand, a dormant volcano that dominates the region. To the west, the Zagros Mountains stretch out along the border with Turkey, forming a formidable barrier. The mountains provide scenic backdrops, but their rugged slopes limit agricultural and infrastructural development. Numerous ravines and gorges dissect the landscape, adding to its ruggedness.
Fertile Plains:
Despite the mountainous terrain, Marand is also home to fertile plains. The Quru River flows through the city, irrigating the surrounding agricultural lands. The plains are used for growing a variety of crops, including wheat, barley, and fruits. The fertile soils and favorable climate make agriculture an important economic activity in the region. The plains also provide a relatively flat terrain for urbanization and development, contrasting with the mountainous areas that surround them.
Tabriz International Airport (TBZ)
Tabriz International Airport (TBZ) is the closest airport to Marand, Iran. It is situated approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Marand in the city of Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan Province. TBZ serves both domestic and international flights and is a major hub for Iran Air, the country’s national airline. The airport offers direct flights to major cities in Iran, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad, as well as international destinations such as Istanbul, Dubai, and Baghdad.
Other nearby airports
In addition to Tabriz International Airport, there are two other airports located within a reasonable distance of Marand:
- Orumiyeh International Airport (OMH): Located approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles) northwest of Marand in the city of Orumiyeh, OMH serves domestic flights within Iran.
- Urmia Airport (UTH): Located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) northwest of Marand, UTH is a small, domestic airport that serves limited flights to and from Tehran.
Geography
Marand is a city located in East Azarbaijan Province, northwest Iran. It is situated on the southern slopes of the Sahand Mountains, at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet). The city spans an area of 185 square kilometers (72 square miles) and has a population of around 130,000. Marand is surrounded by several smaller towns and villages, including Bonab, Malekan, and Sufian. The climate of Marand is characterized by cold winters and hot summers, with annual precipitation ranging from 300 to 400 millimeters (12 to 16 inches). The city is fed by the Marand River, which flows through the center and provides water for irrigation and drinking.
History
The history of Marand dates back to ancient times. Excavations have revealed evidence of settlements in the area from as early as the Bronze Age. The city was later ruled by various empires, including the Medes, Persians, Greeks, Arabs, and Mongols. During the Safavid era (16th-18th centuries), Marand became an important trade center due to its location on the Silk Road. In the 19th century, the city was occupied by Russian forces for several years. Marand was finally liberated in 1918 and has remained part of Iran ever since. Today, the city is a thriving commercial and industrial center, known for its agricultural products, handicrafts, and tourism.