Zahedan Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Iran

Summer

Zahedan experiences a scorching summer with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F). The hottest months are July and August, with average highs around 43°C (109°F). The extreme heat, combined with low humidity, can make outdoor activities challenging. However, nights offer some respite from the daytime heat, with temperatures dropping to around 25°C (77°F).

Winter

In contrast to the summer, winters in Zahedan are mild and pleasant. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 10°C (50°F). While temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing, the city rarely receives any snow. The winter months offer a welcome respite from the summer heat, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its surroundings.

Summer Season

Zahedan, a city located in southeastern Iran, experiences extreme heat during the summer months. The average temperature in Zahedan from June to August is consistently above 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). The peak temperature during this period often exceeds 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), making it one of the hottest cities in the world. The extreme heat can be attributed to the city’s geographical location in a desert region, which receives minimal rainfall and has low humidity. The lack of vegetation and water bodies further intensifies the heat, leading to scorching conditions that pose health risks to residents and visitors alike.

Winter Season

In stark contrast to the summer, Zahedan experiences relatively mild winters. The average temperature from December to February hovers around 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional dips below freezing. The city receives some precipitation during the winter months, primarily in the form of rain, which brings temporary respite from the summer heat. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature fluctuations and sandstorms occurring occasionally. Despite the milder temperatures, the constant wind can make the winter weather feel colder than it actually is, requiring warm clothing and shelter for protection.

Cloudiness in Zahedan, Iran

Zahedan, the capital of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, experiences a generally dry and sunny climate with minimal cloud cover throughout the year. The city’s location in southeastern Iran, close to the Afghanistan border, places it in a region with a continental climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, dry winters. The lack of nearby water bodies and mountainous terrain contributes to the city’s low humidity levels and infrequent cloud formation.

During the summer months (June to September), Zahedan experiences the highest temperatures and clearest skies. The average cloud cover during these months is less than 10%, resulting in an abundance of sunshine and few overcast days. Conversely, the winter months (December to February) are slightly cloudier, with average cloud cover ranging from 10% to 20%. However, precipitation remains scarce during this period, and the skies are generally clear. Overall, Zahedan enjoys a high number of clear sky days throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and stargazing enthusiasts.

Annual Precipitation Pattern

Zahedan, a city in southeastern Iran, experiences an arid climate with low annual precipitation. On average, the city receives around 70 millimeters (2.76 inches) of rain per year, making it one of the driest cities in Iran. Precipitation is primarily concentrated during the winter months (November to March), with a small peak in May or June. During these months, occasional rainfall events can bring much-needed moisture to the parched landscape. However, the remainder of the year is typically characterized by long periods of drought, with little to no precipitation.

Influence of Geography and Climate

The low precipitation levels in Zahedan can be attributed to its geographical location and climate. Situated in the rain shadow of the Zagros Mountains, Zahedan receives little moisture from the westerly wind patterns that bring rain to other parts of Iran. Additionally, the city’s distance from major water bodies and the influence of the subtropical high-pressure system contribute to its arid conditions. The high-pressure system creates a stable atmospheric layer that inhibits cloud formation and precipitation. As a result, Zahedan experiences a highly evaporative environment, with potential evapotranspiration rates far exceeding actual precipitation levels.

Average Rainfall and Distribution

Zahedan, located in southeastern Iran, experiences an arid climate characterized by minimal rainfall. The average annual precipitation in Zahedan is approximately 90 mm (3.5 inches), which is significantly lower than the national average for Iran. The majority of this rainfall occurs during the winter months, with January recording the highest monthly average at 23 mm (0.9 inches). During the summer months, rainfall is scarce, with July and August receiving almost no precipitation.

Impact on Water Resources and Vegetation

The low rainfall in Zahedan has a profound impact on the city’s water resources and vegetation. The city relies heavily on underground water sources, which are slowly being depleted due to the limited rainfall. The lack of surface water resources also makes Zahedan vulnerable to droughts. The arid climate also affects the vegetation in the region, with sparse vegetation consisting primarily of drought-tolerant shrubs and grasses.

Exceptional Snowfall in Zahedan

Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan province in southeastern Iran, witnessed an exceptional snowfall in January 2023. The heavy snowfall, measuring up to 40 centimeters in some areas, transformed the dry and arid city into a picturesque winter wonderland. The snowfall surprised residents, who are accustomed to a desert climate with little precipitation. The snowfall paralyzed transportation and disrupted daily life in the city. However, despite the inconvenience, many welcomed the rare sight and opportunity to experience winter activities such as sledding and snowball fights.

Government Response and Impact

Following the heavy snowfall, the Iranian government swiftly deployed emergency services to clear the snow and provide aid to stranded motorists and vulnerable populations. The Provincial Crisis Management Headquarters coordinated efforts to ensure essential services, such as healthcare and food supply, were not disrupted. However, the snowfall also highlighted the challenges faced by the region due to its lack of infrastructure and resources to deal with such weather events. The snowfall caused power outages in some areas, adding further strain on the local population. Nonetheless, the government’s prompt response and the resilience of the local community helped mitigate the impact of the snowfall and ensure the safety of residents.

Sunrise and Sunset Times:

Zahedan experiences significant variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. During the summer months, the sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 6:30 PM, providing extended daylight hours. In contrast, during the winter months, the sun rises closer to 7:00 AM and sets around 5:00 PM, resulting in shorter days. The exact timing of sunrise and sunset can vary slightly depending on the specific date and atmospheric conditions.

Sunlight Hours and Solar Radiation:

Zahedan receives an average of 3,200-3,500 hours of sunlight annually, making it one of the sunniest cities in Iran. The city’s location in southeastern Iran, away from coastal areas and mountainous regions, contributes to its high solar exposure. As a result, Zahedan experiences high levels of solar radiation, with an average daily insolation of around 6.0-7.5 kWh/m2. This abundant sunshine makes Zahedan an ideal location for solar energy development and utilization.

Moon Visibility and Timing

In Zahedan, Iran, the moon is visible during different periods throughout the month, depending on the lunar cycle. During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible at all. As the moon waxes, it becomes visible as a thin crescent in the western sky shortly after sunset. As the moon continues to wax, it becomes more prominent and rises higher in the sky, culminating in the full moon phase when it is visible throughout the night.

Lunar Events and Occasions

Zahedan observes various lunar events and occasions that hold cultural and religious significance. The most prominent event is the sighting of the new moon, which marks the beginning of a new Islamic month. The sighting of the new moon is announced through official channels, and it is customary for people to offer prayers and engage in special rituals on this day. Other lunar events observed in Zahedan include the waxing and waning of the moon, which are significant for determining the timing of religious holidays and events such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Zahedan, the capital of Iran’s southeastern Sistan and Baluchestan province, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. The city is characterized by an arid climate with low humidity levels throughout the year. However, winter months (December to February) witness a slight increase in humidity, typically ranging between 30-40%. During this time, cold air masses from the north carry some moisture, resulting in occasional foggy mornings and increased humidity levels at night.

Summer Humidity Levels

In contrast, summer months (June to September) in Zahedan are characterized by extremely low humidity levels. The humidity often drops below 10% due to the city’s location in the desert belt. The extreme heat and aridity during this period make the air feel very dry and uncomfortable. Hot, dry winds called the “120-day wind” further contribute to the low humidity levels, exacerbating the harsh summer conditions.

Wind Patterns in Zahedan

Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan province in southeastern Iran, experiences distinct wind patterns influenced by its unique geographical location. The city lies in an arid region, characterized by vast deserts and rugged mountains. During the spring and summer months, Zahedan is subjected to strong, dust-laden winds known as the “120-day winds.” These winds originate from the deserts of Pakistan and Afghanistan and sweep across the city, bringing with them clouds of fine dust and sand, resulting in reduced visibility and poor air quality.

In contrast, during the winter months, Zahedan’s wind patterns undergo a significant shift. The prevailing wind direction changes to the northwest, bringing with it cold, dry air from the Siberian anticyclone. These winds can be particularly strong, reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour (50 miles per hour) in some cases. They often carry with them fine, powdery snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland in the city. Additionally, Zahedan is located in a region prone to dust storms, which can occur sporadically throughout the year, further exacerbating the city’s air quality issues.

Spring (March-May):

Spring is an ideal time to visit Zahedan, as the weather is pleasant and mild. Temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24 degrees Celsius), making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The city comes alive with blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploring its many attractions.

Autumn (September-November):

Autumn is another excellent season to visit Zahedan. The temperatures are slightly cooler than in the summer, with highs in the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 22 degrees Celsius) and lows in the mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 13 degrees Celsius). The air is crisp and clear, and the days are perfect for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Autumn is also the time for the annual Zahedan International Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the world.

Solar Potential in Zahedan

Zahedan, located in the southeastern Iranian province of Sistan and Baluchestan, possesses immense solar energy potential due to its high solar irradiance and extensive sunshine hours. The city receives an average of 3,300 sunshine hours per year, significantly higher than the global average. This favorable solar climate makes Zahedan an ideal location for harnessing solar energy to meet its energy needs.

Solar Initiatives and Development

Recognizing the vast solar potential, the Iranian government has implemented several initiatives to promote solar energy utilization in Zahedan. In recent years, numerous solar power plants have been established in the city, with a combined capacity of over 100 megawatts (MW). These projects have not only reduced Zahedan’s reliance on fossil fuels but also contributed to sustainable development and job creation. Additionally, the city has implemented rooftop solar programs, encouraging homeowners and businesses to install solar panels on their rooftops to generate clean energy and reduce their energy costs.

General Topography

Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan Province in southeastern Iran, possesses diverse topographical features. Located in the central part of the province, the city sits on a relatively flat plateau at an elevation of around 1,350 meters above sea level. The plateau is characterized by arid plains punctuated by occasional hills and mountains. The most notable of these is Mount Kohan, which lies to the north of the city and peaks at 2,590 meters, offering scenic views of the surrounding region.

Surrounding Landscape

The landscape surrounding Zahedan gradually transitions from the plateau to a rugged mountainous terrain. To the west and east of the city, mountain ranges form natural boundaries, including the Sharmil Mountains in the west and the Sofedin Mountains in the east. The southern and northern regions feature expansive deserts, with the Dasht-e Lut, one of the largest salt deserts in the world, lying to the south and the Kavir-e Lut desert to the north. These deserts contribute to Zahedan’s arid climate and create a distinct visual contrast to the mountainous areas.

Zahedan International Airport (ZAH)

Zahedan International Airport (IATA: ZAH, ICAO: OIZH), also known as Zahedan Airport, is located in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan province in southeastern Iran. It is the main airport serving the city and the surrounding region. Zahedan Airport is situated approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) northeast of the city center and occupies an area of over 1,000 acres. The airport features a single passenger terminal with a capacity to handle around 500 passengers per hour. It is equipped with modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and prayer rooms.

Airlines and Destinations

Zahedan International Airport is served by several domestic airlines, including Iran Air, Mahan Air, and Caspian Airlines. These airlines offer regular flights to major cities in Iran, such as Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan. There are also occasional international flights to destinations in neighboring countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan. The airport serves as a hub for Iran Air and Mahan Air, which have a significant presence in the region. Zahedan Airport also plays a vital role in the transportation of goods and supplies to and from the city and its surrounding areas.

History and Culture:

Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan province in southeastern Iran, holds a rich history that blends the traditions of its Persian and Baluchi inhabitants. The city traces its roots back to the 18th century, when it emerged as a trading hub for the nomadic Baluchi tribes. Over time, Zahedan grew into a significant commercial and administrative center, strategically located along the ancient Silk Road. Its unique cultural tapestry is evident in its historical mosques, traditional bazaars, and vibrant festivals that showcase the diverse heritage of the region.

Modern Development:

In recent decades, Zahedan has undergone significant modernization and development. The city is now home to a modern infrastructure, including a bustling airport, railway station, and well-established educational and medical institutions. The presence of the University of Sistan and Baluchestan has made Zahedan a hub for higher education and research. Furthermore, the city’s strategic location and proximity to international borders have fostered cross-border trade and economic cooperation with neighboring countries.