The climate of Choum
Choum, situated in
Mauritania, takes on the characteristics of the BWh Koppen climate classification. This classification signifies that Choum has a distinct Subtropical Desert climate. The weather in this region ranges from moderately warm to extremely hot temperatures throughout the year, with an annual temperature bandwidth between 14.3°C (57.7°F) and 41.5°C (106.7°F).
Over the annual cycle, Choum experiences wide variations in its climatological parameters. Relative humidity ranges from 17-27%, the lowest being in
May and the highest in
August, indicating drier conditions in spring and increased moisture during late summer. Rainfall is almost non-existent from
January to May with a sharp increase in August and
September where it reaches 11mm (0.43") and 9mm (0.35"), respectively.
Choum experiences significant daylight variation throughout the year, with the longest days in
June (13.4 hours) and the shortest days in
December (10.9 hours). Sunshine hours marginally fluctuate from 9.4 hours in January to a high of 9.9 hours from May to August, suggesting bright and clear skies for the most part of the year. Wind speeds vary minimally, averaging between 14.3km/h (8.9mph) to 18.2km/h (11.3mph) annually.
The distinct feature of Choum's climate is the lack of rainfall in the first half of the year, which contributes to the overall desert climate. Conversely, the relatively high humidity and the increased rainfall in August and September create a breather during approximately two months before the dry spell resumes.
The best time to visit Choum
Taking into account the climatological parameters of
Choum, the most preferable time to visit would arguably be during autumn, precisely from
October to
November. During this period, the temperature starts to moderate from the extreme summer highs of 41.5°C (106.7°F) in
July to more manageable numbers, averaging around 36.3°C (97.3°F) in October and 30.6°C (87.1°F) in November. Accompanying the pleasant temperatures is relatively low rainfall, balancing at 8mm (0.31") and 1mm (0.04") respectively, ensuring a more enjoyable visit.
The worst time to visit Choum
Although
Choum has its charms, the unfavorable period to plan a visit would be during the peak summer months, from
June to
September. The mercury touches its annual maximum of 41.5°C (106.7°F) in
July. The heat, combined with the highest humidity levels of the year, which tops 27% in
August, and increased rainfall of precipitation. In Choum, during the entire year, the rain falls for 25.2 days and collects up to 39mm (1.54") of precipitation. The average length of the day in
May is 13h and 10min.
On the first day of May, sunrise is at 06:20 and sunset at 19:17. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:09 and sunset at 19:30 GMT. The months with the most sunshine are May, July and August, with an average of 9.9h of sunshine. The average daily maximum UV index in May is 8. A UV Index of 8 to 10 symbolizes a very high health vulnerability from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for the average person.
Note: In May, the maximum UV index of 8 translates into these guidelines:
Don't neglect protection; skin and eyes can be burned swiftly if left exposed. The Sun emits the most powerful UV radiation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid direct sunlight during this period. Sun protection is enhanced with clothing that boasts a tight weave yet offers a loose fit.
Weather in June
The torrid summer month of
June brings forth the highest temperatures of the year in
Choum,
Mauritania, peaking at a pinnacle value of 40.3°C (104.5°F). Despite these high temperatures, rainfall remains hardly prominent, though humidity rises slightly, creating somewhat sultry conditions.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
While
July maintains the summer heat, it also brings a noticeable increase in the number of rainfall days. An equally insufficient frequency of rainfall persists, failing to provide much respite from the heat. Also, the daylight duration slightly contracts signifying that the days start to get shorter.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August is a month of notable changes in
Choum,
Mauritania when weather patterns begin their transition exclusively due to the significant increase in the average number of rainfall days to 5.2. The city experiences augmented humidity due to high temperatures and the gradual shift in climatic conditions.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September serves as a turning point in the weather of
Choum,
Mauritania with perceivable changes in a number of climatic aspects. The increased rainfall presents noticeable relief from previous scorching months. The city also witnesses a decrease in daylight and sunshine hours, indicating the arrival of shorter days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October, it seems apparent that the heat of the summer is gradually retreating in
Choum. A continued decrease in temperatures, coupled with a reduction in the amount of rainfall, paints a picture of transition towards the cooler months.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November in
Choum,
Mauritania marks significant dips in temperature, daylight hours and relative humidity, all indications of an approaching winter. This month also witnesses the retreat of the rainy season with negligible rainfall observed.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings with it the onset of winter in
Choum,
Mauritania with a further drop in temperatures and a decrease in daylight hours. Despite these changes, humidity stays almost constant. Nevertheless, the climate remains largely arid with negligible precipitation and even the cloud coverage remains sparse.
Weather in December »