Rounding out the year,
December in
Massawa is a welcome contrast to the preceding hot summer months. The high temperature drops further to 30.5°C (86.9°F), presenting a relatively pleasant and mild cityscape. However, it's important to have an umbrella at the ready, considering the rainfall increases to 40mm (1.57"). The reduction in daylight hours and less intense UV index do not mar the city's tourism. The year ends on a cooler note, making December an ideal time for a holiday before the cycle of seasons starts anew.
Temperature
December in Massawa begins with an average high-temperature of a still hot 30.5°C (86.9°F), reflecting close similarity to the preceding month. During December, Massawa experiences a consistent low-temperature average of 19.7°C (67.5°F).
Heat index
For most parts of December, the heat index is calculated to be a torrid 38°C (100.4°F). Heightened precautions are necessary, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are potential risks. Continuous activity could lead to heatstroke.
Evaluating the heat index requires understanding its values in the shade and with gentle winds. In the presence of direct sunshine, the heat index could be augmented by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'felt air temperature' or 'real feel', combines air temperature and relative humidity to represent a human perceived temperature equivalent. The individual's experience of temperature can be shaped by numerous aspects such as metabolic variations, physical exertion, and attire. Awareness of direct sun exposure is crucial as it has the potential to heighten the weather's effects, pushing up the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly critical to babies and toddlers. Kids often lack the knowledge about the necessity to take breaks and consume liquids. Thirst, as a late symptom of dehydration, necessitates the maintenance of hydration, particularly during enduring physical activities.
The body's innate mechanism to counteract overheating is through perspiration, as it leverages the cooling effects of sweat evaporation. With high air temperature and humidity (high heat index) conditions, sweat production is restricted, leading to an amplified perception of heat. The body faces dehydration threats when its cooling efforts are outpaced by excessive heat gain.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in December is 74.5%.
Rainfall
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 2.7 days and accumulates 40mm (1.57") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Massawa,
Eritrea, in December, the average water temperature is 27.8°C (82°F).
Note: Water temperature between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) is perceived as agreeably warm, making all water activities enjoyable without the risk of discomfort over lengthy durations.
Daylight
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 12min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 06:33 and sunset at 17:49. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:48 and sunset at 18:01 EAT.
Sunshine
The average sunshine in December in Massawa is 8h.
UV index
December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 8. A UV Index estimate of 8 to 10 represents a very high health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In December, the maximum UV index of 8 transforms into these recommendations:
Always be cautious. Skin and eyes can be affected swiftly without protection. Limit direct sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its peak. However, keep in mind that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. On sunny days, it's ideal to wear sunglasses that filter out UVA and UVB rays. Beware! The reflection of water and sand dramatically increases exposure to the UV rays.