Sidi Aissa Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Algeria

Summer in Sidi Aissa

Sidi Aissa experiences scorching summers from June to August, with average temperatures hovering around 37°C (99°F). The intense heat can be unrelenting, with little respite at night as temperatures rarely dip below 25°C (77°F). Humidity levels tend to be low, providing some relief from the oppressive heat. However, occasional haboobs—intense dust storms—can bring strong winds and reduced visibility.

Winter in Sidi Aissa

In contrast to the searing summer months, Sidi Aissa’s winters are mild and pleasant, lasting from December to February. Average temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F), with occasional rainfall bringing much-needed moisture to the landscape. Nights can be chilly, with temperatures falling below 10°C (50°F), but frost and snow are rare. The relatively dry climate ensures that rainfall is sporadic throughout the winter months, resulting in mostly clear and sunny days.

Average Temperature in Sidi Aissa, Algeria

Sidi Aissa, Algeria enjoys a temperate climate with warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is around 18.5°C (65°F), with average summer temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). January is the coldest month with average temperatures of around 10°C (50°F).

Precipitation is relatively low in Sidi Aissa, with an average annual rainfall of around 400 millimeters (16 inches). Most of the rainfall occurs during the cooler months, with the driest months being July and August. The city receives around 300 hours of sunshine per year, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunny weather.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation in Sidi Aissa, Algeria

Sidi Aissa, Algeria has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The amount of cloud cover varies throughout the year, but there is generally more cloud cover in the winter than in the summer. This is primarily due to the influence of the Mediterranean Sea, which brings moisture-laden air to the region during the winter months. On average, Sidi Aissa receives about 300 millimeters of rainfall annually, with most of the precipitation occurring during the winter and spring months.

Impact of Climate Change on Cloud Cover and Precipitation

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on cloud cover and precipitation in Sidi Aissa. As the global temperature rises, the amount of moisture in the atmosphere will increase, leading to an increase in cloud cover. This, in turn, will lead to an increase in precipitation, with more frequent and intense rainfall events. In addition, the rising temperatures will cause the snowpack in the nearby mountains to melt earlier in the year, which will reduce the availability of water for irrigation and other purposes.

Annual Precipitation

Sidi Aissa, Algeria experiences an arid climate, with meager annual precipitation. The city receives approximately 200 millimeters (8 inches) of rainfall per year, mostly concentrated during the cooler months from October to April. The summer months are typically dry, with sporadic showers or thunderstorms occurring infrequently. This rainfall pattern is influenced by the city’s proximity to the Sahara Desert, which limits moisture availability and contributes to the arid conditions.

Seasonal Variation

The precipitation in Sidi Aissa exhibits pronounced seasonal variability. The wet season, which spans from October to April, accounts for the majority of the annual precipitation. During this time, the city receives an average of 30-50 millimeters (1.2-2 inches) of rainfall per month. The wettest months are typically November and December, with rainfall amounts occasionally exceeding 60 millimeters (2.4 inches). In contrast, the dry season, from May to September, sees a significant decrease in precipitation. The city receives an average of only 10-15 millimeters (0.4-0.6 inches) of rainfall during these months, and extended periods of drought are common.

Rainfall Patterns

Sidi Aissa experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by low annual rainfall. The average yearly precipitation is around 200-250 millimeters, with most rainfall occurring during the winter months from October to March. The town receives very little rain during the hot, dry summer months, from June to August. This seasonal variation in rainfall is influenced by the Mediterranean climate, where warm, wet winters alternate with dry summers.

Seasonal Variations

During the winter months, Sidi Aissa witnesses the passage of mid-latitude cyclones that bring moist air from the Mediterranean Sea. These cyclones often result in prolonged periods of rainfall, leading to the accumulation of moisture in the soil. In contrast, during the summer months, the town falls under the influence of the North African High, a large-scale atmospheric pressure system that brings clear skies and suppresses precipitation. This lack of rainfall during the summer months can lead to drought conditions, affecting agricultural activities and water availability in the region.

Historical Snow Events in Sidi Aissa:

Sidi Aissa, a coastal town in Algeria, has rarely experienced significant snowfall. However, in February of 2018, the town made headlines when it witnessed a rare and substantial snowfall. The event was remarkable as it marked the first time in over a decade that the town had experienced measurable snow accumulation. The snowfall, which began in the early morning hours and lasted for several hours, resulted in a thick blanket of snow covering the streets and rooftops of the town. Residents and tourists alike ventured outside to capture the rare spectacle, sharing numerous photographs and videos on social media.

Impact of Snowfall on Sidi Aissa:

The heavy snowfall in Sidi Aissa had several notable impacts on the town. Transportation was significantly disrupted as roads became impassable due to the accumulation of snow and ice. Schools and other public institutions were closed for several days to ensure the safety of students and staff. Additionally, the snowfall created challenges for locals and tourists alike, particularly those who were not accustomed to navigating in snowy conditions. However, the snowfall also brought a sense of excitement and novelty to the town, and many residents embraced the opportunity to enjoy the winter wonderland.

General Climate Overview

Sidi Aissa experiences generally warm and sunny weather throughout the year. The city has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. The average annual temperature is around 17°C (63°F). The warmest months of the year are July and August, with average temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The coolest months are December and January, with average temperatures dipping down to around 10°C (50°F).

Sunlight Hours and UV Index

Sidi Aissa enjoys an abundance of sunshine throughout the year. The city receives an average of 3,300 hours of sunshine annually. During the summer months, the sun is at its strongest, with up to 11 hours of daylight per day. The UV index in Sidi Aissa is typically very high, especially during the summer months. It is important to take precautions to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing.

Moon Phases Observed in Sidi Aissa, Algeria

The moon’s appearance varies throughout the month due to its changing illumination as it orbits Earth. In Sidi Aissa, Algeria, the moon’s phases are primarily observed as follows:

  • New Moon: During this phase, the moon is not visible from Earth as it is located between Earth and the sun. This phase typically lasts for about 2-3 days.

  • Waxing Crescent: After the new moon, the moon begins to grow in size, gradually becoming visible as a thin, crescent-shaped sliver. This phase gradually progresses over the next few days.

  • First Quarter: At this phase, half of the moon’s surface is illuminated and appears as a half-circle. The remaining half of the moon is not visible. This phase occurs approximately one week after the new moon.

  • Waxing Gibbous: As the moon continues to orbit Earth, its illuminated portion increases, forming a humpbacked, almost full appearance. This phase lasts for about a week.

  • Full Moon: During this phase, the entire surface of the moon is illuminated and appears as a bright, round disk. This occurs approximately two weeks after the new moon.

  • Waning Gibbous: After the full moon, the illuminated portion of the moon begins to decrease, gradually forming a mirror image of the waxing gibbous phase.

  • Third Quarter: At this phase, half of the moon’s surface is again illuminated, but this time in a reversed orientation compared to the first quarter. This phase occurs approximately one week after the full moon.

  • Waning Crescent: As the moon nears the end of its cycle, its illuminated portion continues to shrink, becoming a thin, crescent-shaped sliver again. This phase gradually progresses over the next few days.

Average Humidity Levels

Sidi Aissa, Algeria, experiences relatively low humidity throughout the year. The average annual humidity level is around 55%, with monthly averages ranging from 45% in August to 65% in November and December. Winter months tend to be slightly more humid than summer months, with occasional fog or mist. However, overall, the humidity levels in Sidi Aissa remain low to moderate, contributing to a comfortable climate.

Humidity Influence on Weather

The low humidity levels in Sidi Aissa significantly influence the local weather. The dry air allows for high levels of evaporation, leading to a cooling effect during the day. This results in pleasant temperatures, even during the hottest summer months. Additionally, due to the low humidity, precipitation tends to be infrequent and generally occurs in the form of short, heavy showers rather than prolonged periods of rain. The low moisture content in the air also reduces the risk of prolonged cloud cover and fog, making for generally clear and sunny skies throughout the year.

Wind Patterns in Sidi Aissa

Sidi Aissa, Algeria experiences a range of wind patterns throughout the year. The prevailing winds are westerly, blowing from the Atlantic Ocean toward the Sahara Desert. These winds bring moisture and moderate temperatures to the region, particularly during the summer months.

During the winter, Sidi Aissa is also influenced by continental winds blowing from the east and southeast. These winds are often dry and cold, bringing with them dust and sand from the Sahara. Additionally, local topographic features, such as the surrounding mountains and valleys, can create localized wind patterns, such as downslope winds and mountain breezes.

Impact of the Wind

The wind in Sidi Aissa has a significant impact on the local environment and human activities. The strong westerly winds can be beneficial for agriculture, as they help to disperse seeds and contribute to crop pollination. However, the winds can also cause damage to infrastructure and vegetation, particularly during storms.

Furthermore, the wind plays a role in shaping the landscape of Sidi Aissa. Wind erosion can create dunes and desert formations over time. Additionally, the wind-driven transport of sand and dust can influence air quality and visibility in the region. Understanding the wind patterns in Sidi Aissa is essential for effective land management, infrastructure development, and environmental protection strategies.

Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November)

Spring and autumn offer ideal weather conditions for visiting Sidi Aissa. The temperatures are mild with highs in the low 20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit) and lows in the mid-10s Celsius (50s Fahrenheit). This pleasant climate makes it comfortable for exploring the city’s historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Great Mosque of Sidi Aissa and the Mausoleum of Boumediene. The absence of extreme heat or cold allows for a more enjoyable and comfortable travel experience. Additionally, the lush greenery and blooming flowers enhance the beauty of the city during this time of year.

Winter (December-February)

Winter in Sidi Aissa is characterized by cool to cold temperatures, with highs around 15 degrees Celsius (60s Fahrenheit) and lows dropping to around 5 degrees Celsius (40s Fahrenheit). The city occasionally experiences rainfall, making it necessary to pack appropriate clothing. While the weather may not be as conducive to outdoor activities, this period can offer a unique opportunity to explore the city’s indoor attractions, including museums and art galleries. The absence of crowds also allows for a more intimate and authentic experience. However, it’s important to note that some tourist facilities may have reduced operating hours or closures during this time of year.

Solar Potential

Sidi Aissa, Algeria, possesses excellent solar energy potential due to its geographical location within the Sahara Desert. The region receives an average of 3,300 sunshine hours annually, providing ample sunlight to harness solar power. The high irradiance levels and clear skies make Sidi Aissa an ideal location for large-scale solar projects. Furthermore, the vast and undeveloped land availability enhances the feasibility of establishing solar farms with minimal land-use conflicts.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Sidi Aissa holds significant solar energy potential, certain challenges need to be addressed to fully exploit this renewable resource. The primary challenge is the high ambient temperatures experienced in the region, which can affect the efficiency of solar panels. Additionally, dust and sand accumulations may pose maintenance challenges for solar infrastructure. However, these challenges can be mitigated through the deployment of appropriate technologies, such as dust-resistant solar panels and advanced cooling systems. The potential economic benefits associated with solar energy development outweigh these constraints, as it can contribute to job creation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and promote sustainable energy practices in the region.

Elevation and Relief

Sidi Aissa, Algeria is located in the mountainous region of the Tell Atlas, with elevations ranging from sea level at the Mediterranean coast to over 1,500 meters in the mountainous interior. The topography is characterized by steep hillsides, narrow valleys, and rugged peaks. The highest point in Sidi Aissa is Mount Sidi Amar, which rises to an elevation of 1,551 meters.

Geomorphic Features

The topography of Sidi Aissa has been shaped by a combination of geological processes and human activities. The region is characterized by a series of parallel mountain ranges separated by narrow valleys. The mountains are composed primarily of limestone and sandstone, which have been eroded over time by glaciers, rivers, and wind to create the current landscape. In addition, human activities such as agriculture and grazing have also contributed to the shaping of the topography. The construction of terraces and the clearing of forests for agriculture have altered the slopes and vegetation patterns of the area.

Nearest Airport to Sidi Aissa

The nearest airport to Sidi Aissa, Algeria, is Mohammed Boudiaf International Airport (GHA) in Constantine, Algeria. It is located approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) north-northeast of Sidi Aissa. The airport offers domestic and international flights to major cities in Algeria, as well as several destinations in Europe and North Africa.

Mohammed Boudiaf International Airport is a modern facility with a wide range of amenities and services for passengers. It features a spacious terminal building with multiple check-in counters, baggage claim areas, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The airport also provides ground transportation options such as taxis, buses, and rental cars to facilitate travel to and from Sidi Aissa and other nearby destinations.

History of Sidi Aissa

Sidi Aissa, a commune located in the M’Sila province of Algeria, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Its strategic location on the banks of the Wadi M’Sila has made it a crossroads for trade and commerce throughout history. The region was once inhabited by the Numidian people, who ruled over North Africa from the 3rd century BC to the 1st century AD. During the Roman Empire, Sidi Aissa fell under Roman rule and became part of the province of Mauretania Caesariensis. The area later came under the influence of the Vandal Kingdom and the Byzantine Empire before being conquered by the Arabs in the 7th century AD.

Geography and Climate

Sidi Aissa is situated in the central highlands of Algeria, approximately 130 kilometers south of the capital, Algiers. The commune covers an area of 225 square kilometers and is characterized by a rugged and mountainous terrain. The Wadi M’Sila, a major tributary of the Chott Ech Chergui, flows through the commune, providing water for agriculture and irrigation. The climate of Sidi Aissa is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average annual temperature is around 18 degrees Celsius, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months.