Climate and monthly weather forecastKhartoum, Sudan

The climate of Khartoum

Situated in the hot and arid region of Sudan, Khartoum's climate is predominantly a subtropical desert according to the Köppen climate classification, specifically type BWh. Being the capital city and located at the confluence of the White and Blue Nile rivers, the city is subjected to a climate characterized by hot temperatures all year-round and minimal rainfall.

The temperatures in Khartoum range throughout the year. Extremely high temperatures are recorded between March and June, with an average monthly highs ranging from 36.5°C (97.7°F) to 41.9°C (107.4°F). The rest of the year experiences relatively cooler average high temperatures falling between 30.7°C (87.3°F) to 39.3°C (102.7°F). Nights, on the other hand, offer some relief with average low temperatures varying from 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 27.6°C (81.7°F).

There is a substantial fluctuation in relative humidity, with the driest months being March to May when it drops to 16% to 19%. It then inclines to peak at 49% in August before gradually receding towards the end of the year. Rainfall is scarce and concentrated in the middle of the year from June to September, with August witnessing the highest rainfall of 48mm (1.89") across 4.2 days.

The city basks under a generous amount of sunshine throughout the year, varying from 9 hours to 11 hours. Daylight hours do not vary drastically, spanning between 11.2 to 13 hours. Additionally, the UV index in Khartoum remains extremely high throughout the year, with a peak of 12 from April to August indicating the need for sun protection.

The best time to visit Khartoum

The optimal time to visit Khartoum commences from November till February. During this time, the city experiences relatively cool and manageable temperatures with average highs from 31.7°C (89.1°F) to 35.2°C (95.4°F) and low temperatures dropping to 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 21°C (69.8°F). Moreover, these months witness less rainfall offering pleasant weather conditions for exploration.

The worst time to visit Khartoum

The most challenging period to visit Khartoum falls between May and June when the average monthly high temperatures soar up to 41.3°C (106.3°F) to 41.9°C (107.4°F) respectively. Coupled with the scorching heat, the relative humidity also rises, further intensifying the heat.

Spring weather in Khartoum

Khartoum has a distinct spring season that spans from March to May. Despite being spring, it is marked by escalating temperatures with monthly highs from 36.5°C (97.7°F) to 41.9°C (107.4°F). It is also during this period the city experiences its driest conditions with minimal rainfall and relative humidity dropping to as low as 16 to 19%.

Summer weather in Khartoum

The summer months from June to August witness elevated temperatures as well as a rise in humidity. The average high temperature during this season hovers around 37.6°C (99.7°F) to 41.3°C (106.3°F), and the city sees most of its rainfall during these months. August is distinguished as the wettest month with rainfall reaching 48mm (1.89") over 4.2 days.

Autumn weather in Khartoum

The autumn season from September to November brings relief in terms of temperature. It averages between 35.2°C (95.4°F) to 38.7°C (101.7°F), and the rainfall begins to recede with September seeing 27mm (1.06") dropping to negligible 1mm (0.04") in November.

Winter weather in Khartoum

Winter in Khartoum lasts from December till February with temperatures declining to manageable levels. The city sees average monthly high temperatures between 30.7°C (87.3°F) to 35.2°C (95.4°F) and lows dropping to 15.6°C (60.1°F) to 21°C (69.8°F). It is also during this season that the city experiences minimal rainfall and a reduction in humidity, making it a pleasant time to visit.

Weather in January

Beginning the year, Khartoum weather reveals its generously warm side, with substantial sunlight hours. The cool nightly breezes dissipate the heat, ensuring comfortable evenings and nights. January checks humidity off its list, showcasing an ambient, dry climate. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As January exits, February ushers in a notable rise in heat. The city evolves into an epitome of aridity with heat intensifying yet remaining on the tolerable side. Variations in sunlight are hardly noticeable, assuring sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts consistent weather. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March graces Khartoum with an escalated warmth, leaving the slight chill of February in the rearview. The city's open blue heavens hold the sun in an almost constant embrace, as daytime lengthens slightly. The hint of March's rainfall remains practically negligible while the city bathes in warmth. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Khartoum greets April with roaring temperatures that exceed the warmth experienced in March. Sunlight hugs the city tighter than before, flirtatiously dancing with the dry winds. As March's negligible rainfall disappears altogether, April presents itself as one, long, dry day. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Strongly entering the second quarter, May pushes the heat parameters, challenging previous months. The fierce Khartoum sun generously replaces the needed warmth, competing with the sizzling temperatures. The skies make a remarkable shift, welcoming a slight rainfall after the long drought. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June welcomes Khartoum with a slight drop in intense heat experienced in May. Appeasing sun seekers, June proffers extended daylight hours, bathing the city in a warm, golden glow. Humidity takes an upward trend, hinting at an impending change in weather conditions. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July signals a mid-year climate shift in Khartoum, as temperatures begin a slow descent and humidity rises. Mornings welcome cloud formations, giving respite from the scorching sun. Rain showers mark the month, creating a stark contrast to the dry first half of the year. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In August, Khartoum deals with a noticeable change, as humidity peaks and temperatures continue their slow decline. Meandering clouds give August its character, overstaying their welcome compared to previous months. Rainfall increases, mirroring the rise in relative humidity. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September presents itself as the city’s link to the drier last quarter, with rainfall reducing. Khartoum's arid spell begins to return as the humidity starts a downward trend. Cloud cover reduces noticeably, extending longer bouts of sunshine while the torrential August rain takes its leave. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October heralds the much-awaited decline in temperatures in Khartoum, while the humidity continues to depreciate. Complementing the mild weather, plentiful sunshine graces the city. With rainfall at a near standstill, desert-like conditions start defining Khartoum's weather again. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Through the door of November, Khartoum takes a turn toward chiller weather, shedding the remaining heat. The air turns drier, and the city's vast desert breathes out cool winds, mixing with the gradually dwindling sunshine. Any trace of the mid-year rains is erased, paving the way for arid, desert conditions. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December brings down the curtain on the changing theatrics of Khartoum's weather with colder nights and mildly warm days. Despite its desert location, Khartoum experiences the chill of the season underneath its golden sunshine. Weather in December »