Ta`izz Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Yemen

Summer and Rainy Season in Ta’izz

During the summer months from June to September, Ta’izz experiences scorching temperatures with average highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The city also receives heavy rainfall during this season, with an average of 150mm of precipitation in August alone. The combination of heat and humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, but the rain provides a welcome reprieve from the oppressive weather.

Spring and Autumn: Transition Periods in Ta’izz

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are characterized by milder temperatures in Ta’izz. Average temperatures range between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F), with occasional showers in the spring. These seasons offer a pleasant respite from the extremes of summer and winter, making them ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.

Avg. Temperatures

Ta`izz enjoys a warm climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. The diurnal temperature variation is significant, with nights often 10-15°C (18-27°F) cooler than days. The city experiences two main seasons: a hot, dry summer from April to October and a mild, rainy winter from November to March. During summer, temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F), while in winter, they rarely drop below 10°C (50°F).

Seasonal Variations

The average temperature in Ta`izz varies significantly throughout the year. The coldest months are January and February, with average temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and 16°C (61°F), respectively. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures of 30°C (86°F) and 29°C (84°F), respectively. The temperature range between the coldest and warmest months is about 15°C (27°F). The relative humidity is generally high, averaging around 60-70%, but can reach up to 90% during the monsoon season.

Types of Clouds

Ta`izz, Yemen, experiences a diverse range of cloud formations due to its geographical location and climatic conditions. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy and white appearance, are commonly observed during the morning hours. These clouds generally indicate fair weather and can bring occasional showers. As the day progresses, cumulus clouds may transform into cumulonimbus clouds, which have a more anvil-shaped top and are capable of producing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. During the summer months, cirrus clouds, with their thin and wispy texture, often appear as high-altitude streaks in the sky. These clouds are composed of ice crystals and are usually associated with stable atmospheric conditions.

Role of Clouds

Clouds play a significant role in Taizz's climate and agricultural practices. Cumulus clouds, with their frequent showers, can provide essential moisture to the region's vegetation. The formation of cumulonimbus clouds can lead to thunderstorms, which bring heavy rainfall and replenish water sources. However, these storms can also cause localized flooding and damage to infrastructure. Cirrus clouds, while not directly providing precipitation, can have an indirect impact on the climate by influencing the amount of solar radiation reaching the earth's surface. Overall, clouds in Taizz are an integral part of the local weather patterns and agricultural productivity.

Annual Precipitation

Ta`izz, Yemen, experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city receives an average of 500-600 millimeters of precipitation annually, primarily concentrated during the summer months of July and August. During this period, heavy rains can occur, often accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. The wet season typically lasts from April to September, bringing relief from the scorching temperatures of the rest of the year.

Seasonal Variation

The dry season in Ta`izz extends from October to March, with minimal rainfall and sporadic showers. Temperatures during this time remain moderate, with average highs in the mid-20s degrees Celsius. However, the combination of low precipitation and high evaporation rates can lead to severe drought conditions, impacting agriculture and water resources. The transition periods between the seasons, namely April and September, exhibit a gradual increase or decrease in rainfall, respectively, as the city prepares for the changing weather patterns.

Annual Rainfall

Ta`izz experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by relatively low annual rainfall. The average annual precipitation ranges between 450-550 mm (17.7-21.6 inches), with significant fluctuations year to year. The rainy season typically spans from April to October, while the remaining months are generally dry. During the rainy season, heavy downpours are common, particularly in July and August, leading to occasional flooding in low-lying areas. However, prolonged droughts are not uncommon, especially during the summer months, posing challenges to agriculture and water availability.

Rainfall Variability

Ta`izz’s rainfall patterns exhibit considerable variability, influenced by several factors, including topographic features, altitude, and proximity to the sea. The city is situated in a mountainous region, with higher elevations receiving more rainfall than lower areas. The western slopes of the mountains intercept more precipitation from the prevailing winds, resulting in higher rainfall on that side. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Red Sea influences rainfall patterns, with occasional moisture-bearing winds bringing rain during the winter months. Despite the average rainfall figures, extended dry spells or exceptionally wet periods can occur, affecting water resources, agriculture, and overall environmental conditions.

Snowfall in Ta’izz, Yemen

The Yemeni city of Ta’izz experienced a rare snowfall in early 2023, marking the first recorded snowfall in the city’s history. The snow blanketed the mountainous terrain surrounding the city, painting a picturesque winter landscape that was both awe-inspiring and unusual for the region. The snowfall brought joy and excitement to the local population, who had never witnessed such a phenomenon before.

The snowfall in Ta’izz was caused by a combination of factors, including cold air from the north and high levels of moisture. The city’s altitude, which ranges from 1,300 to 1,500 meters above sea level, also contributed to the snowfall. While snow is not uncommon in the mountainous regions of Yemen, it is extremely rare in Ta’izz, which lies in the western part of the country. The snowfall lasted for several hours, creating a surreal atmosphere and providing a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience a winter wonderland in a land more accustomed to warmth and sunshine.

Sun exposure

Sun exposure is the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun that reaches the Earth’s surface. UV radiation can be harmful to human health, causing skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems. The amount of UV radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface varies depending on a number of factors, including the time of day, the season, the latitude, and the weather conditions.

In Taizz, Yemen, the sun is very strong and UV radiation levels are high. This is due to the city's location near the equator and its high altitude. As a result, it is important for residents of Taizz to take precautions to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. These precautions include wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing.

Health effects of sun exposure

Sun exposure can have a number of harmful effects on human health, including:

• Skin cancer: UV radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer, the most common cancer worldwide. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and can be fatal if not treated early.
• Cataracts: UV radiation can also damage the lens of the eye, leading to cataracts. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens that can lead to vision loss.
• Other health problems: Sun exposure can also lead to other health problems, such as sunburn, dehydration, and heatstroke. Sunburn is a painful reddening of the skin that can be caused by overexposure to UV radiation. Dehydration is a loss of fluids that can occur when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Heatstroke is a serious condition that can occur when the body becomes overheated.

Moon Visibility and Impact of Climate Change

The moon’s visibility in Ta`izz, Yemen, is significantly influenced by climate change. Rising temperatures and increasingly erratic precipitation patterns are affecting the clarity of the night sky, making it more challenging to observe the moon. Dust storms, once a relatively rare occurrence, are becoming more frequent, obscuring the moon’s light and hindering visibility.

As a result, traditional lunar-based practices, such as the Islamic calendar and religious observances, are facing challenges. The timing of religious festivals, which are often determined by moon phases, may be affected. Similarly, farmers who rely on lunar cycles for planting and harvesting may struggle to adapt to changing visibility patterns. The impact of climate change on moon visibility is a reminder of the interconnectedness between natural phenomena and human practices.

Seasonal Humidity

Ta`izz, Yemen exhibits distinct seasonal variations in humidity. During the dry season, which typically spans from October to April, humidity levels remain relatively low, averaging around 40-50%. However, as the rainy season approaches in May, humidity begins to rise gradually, reaching its peak in July and August. During these months, humidity levels can soar to 70-80%, creating a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere.

Diurnal Humidity

Humidity levels in Ta`izz also experience significant diurnal variations. During the early morning hours, humidity is typically at its highest, often exceeding 80%. As the day progresses and temperatures rise, humidity tends to decrease, reaching its lowest point in the afternoon. In the evening, humidity levels rise again, though not to the same extent as in the morning. This diurnal pattern is influenced by the combined effects of temperature fluctuations and condensation.

Wind Patterns and Seasonal Variation

Ta`izz, situated in southwestern Yemen, experiences distinct wind patterns throughout the year. During the winter months (October to March), the prevailing wind direction is from the northeast, bringing in cool, dry air from the Arabian Peninsula. During the summer months (April to September), the wind direction shifts to the southwest, carrying humid, warm air from the Red Sea. The transition between these seasons is often marked by strong, gusty winds known as “shamal”.

Impacts on Daily Life

The wind in Ta`izz can have a significant impact on daily life. During the summer, the strong winds can cause dust storms and sandstorms, reducing visibility and posing a hazard to respiratory health. The wind can also be disruptive to outdoor activities and can affect the performance of wind turbines, an important source of renewable energy in the city. In contrast, during the winter, the cool, dry winds can provide relief from the summer heat and improve air quality.

Best time to visit in Ta`izz, Yemen

The mild winter months from October to April offer ideal conditions for exploring Ta`izz. Temperatures linger between 20-25 degrees Celsius, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. This period coincides with the local spring, when the city bursts into vibrant colors as flowers bloom. The skies are clear, with occasional light showers, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the city’s architectural marvels.

While summer temperatures can soar to 40 degrees Celsius, it is not the most favorable time to visit. The intense heat and humidity can be uncomfortable for sightseeing and outdoor excursions. The city’s charm is diminished during this period, as the harsh sun beats down and greenery withers. However, some travelers may prefer the lower prices and fewer crowds associated with the off-season.

Taizz is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit remains during the winter months. This period offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather, stunning scenery, and optimal conditions for experiencing the city's cultural heritage. By planning a trip during this ideal window, visitors can maximize their enjoyment and create lasting memories of their time in Taizz.

Potential for Solar Energy in Ta’izz

Ta’izz, Yemen, boasts abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. The city receives approximately 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, with an average solar radiation of 5.5 kWh/m²/day. This high solar potential suggests that Ta’izz could significantly reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels by investing in solar photovoltaic (PV) and thermal technologies.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Ta’izz has immense solar energy potential, the city faces several challenges, including a lack of technical expertise, limited access to financing, and an underdeveloped grid infrastructure. To overcome these obstacles, the Yemeni government and international organizations must collaborate to establish a supportive policy framework, provide training and capacity building, and facilitate investment in solar energy projects. Additionally, enhancing the grid infrastructure and promoting energy efficiency measures would complement these efforts, maximizing the utilization and benefits of solar energy in Ta’izz. Once these challenges are addressed, the city can tap into its vast solar resources and transition towards a more sustainable and energy-secure future.

Ta`izz Mountains

Ta`izz, located in southwestern Yemen, is renowned for its mountainous topography. The city is situated on a plateau, surrounded by a ring of mountains that form a picturesque backdrop to the urban landscape. The most notable peak is Mount Sabir, towering at 3,006 meters (9,862 feet). Its slopes are adorned with terraces of qat cultivation, a plant with stimulant properties that is widely consumed in Yemen. Other prominent peaks include Jabal Jihaf (2,300 meters) and As-Sirah (2,100 meters), which offer panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Steep Slopes and Plateaus

The mountains of Taizz have significantly influenced the city's urban development. The steep slopes have necessitated the construction of terraced houses and winding roads that cling to the mountainsides. The city's layout is characterized by narrow streets and stone-built buildings that blend seamlessly with the rocky terrain. Several plateaus, including the Taizz Plateau and the Jabal Sawbahan Plateau, provide flat land for residential and agricultural development. These plateaus offer a contrast to the rugged slopes and provide fertile ground for farming. Overall, the mountainous topography of Ta`izz creates a unique and picturesque urban environment, where the city’s architecture and infrastructure harmonize with the natural landscape.

Ta’izz Airport

Ta’izz Airport (TAI) is the primary airport serving the city of Ta’izz in Yemen. It is located approximately 5 kilometers south of the city center. The airport has a single terminal and one runway, which is 2,360 meters long and 45 meters wide. Ta’izz Airport is served by Yemenia Airlines, the national airline of Yemen, which offers domestic flights to Sana’a, Aden, and Seiyun. The airport is also used by military aircraft and cargo flights.

Aden International Airport

Aden International Airport (ADE) is the largest airport in Yemen and is located approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Ta’izz. The airport has two terminals and two runways, which are 3,000 meters and 2,500 meters long respectively. Aden International Airport is served by a number of international airlines, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. The airport is also used by military aircraft and cargo flights.

History and Culture

Ta’izz boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The city was once the capital of the Yemeni state and a major center of trade and art. Its historical sites include the Great Mosque of Ta’izz, which dates back to the 12th century and is renowned for its intricate architecture. The city is also home to the Ta’izz National Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts and documents that shed light on the city’s past. Ta’izz is known for its traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and jewelry-making, which have been passed down through generations.

Modern City

Ta’izz is Yemen’s second-largest city and serves as an administrative and commercial hub for the surrounding region. The city has undergone significant development in recent decades, with the construction of modern infrastructure, shopping malls, and residential areas. Ta’izz is home to universities, hospitals, and other institutions that serve the needs of the city’s growing population. Despite the ongoing conflict in Yemen, Ta’izz remains a resilient city with a vibrant street life and a strong sense of community.