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Contents
- The climate of El-Aaiún
- The best time to visit El-Aaiún
- The worst time to visit El-Aaiún
- Spring weather in El-Aaiún
- Summer weather in El-Aaiún
- Autumn weather in El-Aaiún
- Winter weather in El-Aaiún
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The climate of El-Aaiún
El-Aaiún, the largest city of the Western Sahara, belongs to the BWh climate group according to the Köppen climate classification. This classification identifies the region as subtropical desert lying on the Northwest part of Africa, thereby designing its yearly weather course, strongly influenced by the Sahara desert. Temperature fluctuates between 12°C (53.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F) round the year, presenting a strong sense of continuity in thermal conditions.
Rainfall, on the other hand, is quite irregular - the region experiences minimum precipitation throughout the majority of the year. Total rainfall varies from 0mm (0") to 19mm (0.75") with the degree of rainfall fluctuating starkly between the months. Months from July to September are practically devoid of rainfall. Amount of daylight ranges from 10.5 hours to 13.8 hours, with the longer daylight hours observed during summer months, and slightly shorter daylight hours in winter and autumn.
Interestingly, the city is subjected to abundant sunshine all year round, from 7 hours in winter to 9 hours during summer months. Despite mild variations, this region maintains a high UV index rating from 4 to a maximum of 12 throughout the year.
Rainfall, on the other hand, is quite irregular - the region experiences minimum precipitation throughout the majority of the year. Total rainfall varies from 0mm (0") to 19mm (0.75") with the degree of rainfall fluctuating starkly between the months. Months from July to September are practically devoid of rainfall. Amount of daylight ranges from 10.5 hours to 13.8 hours, with the longer daylight hours observed during summer months, and slightly shorter daylight hours in winter and autumn.
Interestingly, the city is subjected to abundant sunshine all year round, from 7 hours in winter to 9 hours during summer months. Despite mild variations, this region maintains a high UV index rating from 4 to a maximum of 12 throughout the year.
The best time to visit El-Aaiún
The preferable time for a visit to El-Aaiún lies between late spring, beginning from May leading through summer till early autumn in September. During these months, comfortably warm temperatures ranging from 22°C (71.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F) become prevalent, with rainfall being negligibly low to a maximum absence, promising sunny days. The daylight hours stretching from 12.8 hours to 13.8 hours along with sufficient sunshine of 8 to 9 hours offer visitors ample time to explore the mesmerizing desert landscapes and culturally rich city streets.
The worst time to visit El-Aaiún
Periods to avoid venturing into El-Aaiún fall into the marginally colder months of winter from December through February and the rainy autumn month of November. The temperature falls to a low range of 12°C (53.6°F) to 20°C (68°F) in these months. Also, the rainfall is significantly high, reaching up to an annual maximum of 19mm (0.75") with an abundance of rainy days. These conditions can hamper sightseeing plans and make outdoor activities less enjoyable.
Spring weather in El-Aaiún
Spring in El-Aaiún, spanning from March to May, brings moderately warm temperatures from 16°C (60.8°F) to 22°C (71.6°F). March and April experience slightly higher rainfall averaging around 13mm (0.51"), but by May rainfall drops drastically to around 3mm (0.12"). Daylight gradually increases from 11.3 hours in March to 13.5 hours in May, offering extended sightseeing opportunities. A similar increase occurs in the UV index, spanning from 6 in March up to 11 in May, indicating necessary precautions against sun damage.
Summer weather in El-Aaiún
Summers from June to August are marked by warm temperatures soaring to an annual high of 28°C (82.4°F) in August, with an overall range of 24°C (75.2°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). Daylight remains plentiful, reaching its peak in June with 13.8 hours. Rainfall is at its lowest with nearly absent precipitation throughout the season. The UV index hits its yearly peak at 12 in July suggesting necessary protective measures against sun exposure.
Autumn weather in El-Aaiún
The autumn months from September to November in El-Aaiún experience a gradual drop in temperatures from 27°C (80.6°F) to 20°C (68°F). Rainfall begins to make an appearance in September with 1mm (0.04"), reaching its peak in November with 17mm (0.67"). Daylight hours start to decrease from 12.3 hours in September to 10.8 hours in November. Average sunrays decrease to 8 hours in September and further depletes to 7 hours by November. The UV index falls steadily throughout this period.
Winter weather in El-Aaiún
Winter in El-Aaiún lasting from December through February, observes a lower temperature spectrum of 12°C (53.6°F) to 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is high in these months, reaching its annual peak of 19mm (0.75") in December. Daylight shortens to 10.5 -10.7 hours, while sunshine hours remain steady at 7 hours. However, despite being winter the UV index maintains a moderate scale from 4 to 5, necessitating sun protection. This season, subdued by occasional rainy days, presents a calmer, quieter ambience in the African subtropical desert.
Weather in January
January in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara experiences moderate temperatures with highs peaking at 20°C (68°F) and lows descending to 12°C (53.6°F). It marks the start of the year with a fair amount of rainfall documented at 18mm (0.71") over three days, influencing a vibrant ecosystem. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February in El-Aaiún carries over similar weather patterns from January, with marginally enhanced temperatures. Contrarily, the wettest month passes, leading to a slight decrease in rainfall. This drop in precipitation continues into the subsequent month. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The transitional month of March leads El-Aaiún into delightful Spring. Weatherwise, the city notices an uplift in temperature while the rainfall dwindles to its annual low of 7mm (0.28"), over only one day. This dry weather extends to April as well. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April's weather in El-Aaiún retains the arid spring vibe from March, with significantly less rainfall. A delightful distinction during April is the extension of daylight to approximately 12.8 hours, longest until now. The temperature during the day is warm and enjoyable, while the cool nights offer respite. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in El-Aaiún displays weather patterns characteristic of a fulfilling late spring, and preceding summer. It bathes in the most substantial daylight hours in the year, resulting in an abundant 9 hours of sunshine. The scaling of the UV index to its annual high of 11 indicates the approaching summer, while the comfort of brief showers vanishes. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings true summertime to El-Aaiún, as temperatures start to soar, reaching the year's high till now of 24°C (75.2°F). Contrasting with the preceding months, June records minimum rainfall, generating a dry, arid atmosphere. Weather in June »
Weather in July
In July, El-Aaiún encounters the peak of summer, with the mercury hitting a maximum of 26°C (78.8°F). As the hottest month of the year, it leans towards an arid landscape with no recorded rainfall. Consistent with the typical desert summer, daylight hours slightly recede, while sunshine hours persist. Weather in July »
Weather in August
As summer continues in August in El-Aaiún, there's a remarkable increase in the temperature gradient with highs soaring to 28°C (82.4°F) and the lows at a balmy 21°C (69.8°F). On the rain front, the city continues to experience dry spells, not deviating from July's trend. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in El-Aaiún signals the retreat of summer, with a slight dip in temperatures as compared to August. The city receives a minimal yet notable amount of rainfall at 1mm (0.04") after bone-dry July and August. This signifies the onset of the rainier months that follow. Weather in September »
Weather in October
In October, El-Aaiún experiences a greater range of temperatures, although the mercury continues on its downward trend from September. The city welcomes an increased amount of rain, marking the beginning of wetter months. This is concurrent with a fall in daylight hours and a gradual decrease in the UV index, indicating the arrival of cooler and shorter days. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in El-Aaiún showcases a moderate climate characterized by cooler temperatures as a prelude to winter. Weather patterns point towards an escalation in rain figures, signaling a return to the city's more humid climate experienced at the beginning of the year. Weather in November »
Weather in December
With the arrival of December, El-Aaiún witnesses the return of winter temperatures, dropping to the same range as the year began. The month also brings substantial rainfall, recorded at 19mm (0.75") over three days, touching highs similar to January's showers. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year in El-Aaiún?
The months of January, February and December are noted for their lowest temperatures in El-Aaiún, with an average high-temperature of 20°C (68°F).
How many days does it rain in El-Aaiún?
In El-Aaiún, during the entire year, the rain falls for 18 days and collects up to 93mm (3.66") of precipitation.
What are the months with the least sunshine in El-Aaiún?
The months with the least sunshine are January, November and December, with an average of 7h of sunshine.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in El-Aaiún?
On Sunday, 10. March 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time starts in El-Aaiún, and the time zone changes from +01 to +00. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 14. April 2024, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from +00 to +01.
What is the month with the most sunshine in El-Aaiún?
April through August, with an average of 9h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara.
When are the longest days in El-Aaiún?
The month with the longest days in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara, is June, with an average of 13h and 48min of daylight.
What is the driest month in El-Aaiún?
July and August are months without rainfall in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara.
When is the highest UV index in El-Aaiún?
July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 12.
What is the warmest month in El-Aaiún?
August registers as the month with the average highest temperatures, reaching 28°C (82.4°F) at its peak and 21°C (69.8°F) at the lowest.
When does it rain in El-Aaiún?
Months with rainfall in El-Aaiún are January through June, September through December.
What is the rainiest month in El-Aaiún?
The month with the most rainfall in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara, is December, when the rain falls for 3 days and typically aggregates up to 19mm (0.75") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in El-Aaiún?
The month with the shortest days in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara, is December, with an average of 10h and 30min of daylight.
When is the lowest UV index in El-Aaiún?
December is the month with the lowest UV index in El-Aaiún, Western Sahara, with an average maximum UV index of 4.
Average temperature
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (28°C).
The months with the lowest average high temperature are January, February and December (20°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (21°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (12°C).
Average rainfall
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
- Average rainfall in January:
18mm - Average rainfall in February:
18.5mm - Average rainfall in March:
6.7mm - Average rainfall in April:
2.5mm - Average rainfall in May:
3.2mm - Average rainfall in June:
0.3mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (18.6mm).
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are July and August (0mm).
Average rainfall days
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
- Average rainfall days in January:
3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
1 days - Average rainfall days in June:
1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
0 days - Average rainfall days in October:
2 days - Average rainfall days in November:
1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3 days
The months with the highest number of rainy days are January, February and December (3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
13h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 3min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 13h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 30min).
The months with the most sunshine are April, May, June, July and August (Average sunshine: 9h).
The months with the least sunshine are January, November and December (Average sunshine: 7h).
Average UV index
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 12).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 4).
El-Aaiún, Western Sahara
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