The climate of Suakin
Suakin,
Sudan is characterized by a hot desert climate, corresponding to the Köppen climate classification BWh. As such, the city experiences high temperatures, low rainfall, and plenty of sunlight throughout the year. Over the calendar year, typical temperatures show a clear pattern. High temperatures range from 26°C (78.8°F) in the earlier and later months of the year to a blistering 42°C (107.6°F) during peak summer. On the other hand, the lowest temperatures fluctuate from 19°C (66.2°F) in
January and
February to 29°C (84.2°F) in
August.
Rainfall is scarce in this arid environment, with a majority of months receiving little to no precipitation. The wettest period extends from
October to
December, with
November showing the highest rainfall of 54mm (2.13"). A noteworthy aspect of Suakin's climate is the high sea temperature that remains above 25°C (77°F) year-round, with the waters warming up to 31.2°C (88.2°F) in August. Daylight hours vary slightly, from the lowest average of 11 hours per day in January to a high of 13.3 hours in
June.
The best time to visit Suakin
Given the consistently high temperatures throughout the year, the optimal time to visit
Suakin would arguably be between
November and
February. During these months, air temperatures moderate slightly to between 26°C (78.8°F) and 21°C (69.8°F), while sea temperatures range from 27.4°C (81.3°F) to 26°C (78.8°F). Daylight hours average between 11.1 to 12 hours, allowing ample time for outdoor activities. Visitors should note, however, that November and
December mark the wettest months with 54mm (2.13") and 28mm (1.1") of rainfall respectively.
The worst time to visit Suakin
Traveling to
Suakin between
June and
September could be challenging for many tourists. These months are the hottest, with temperatures soaring between 38°C (100.4°F) and 42°C (107.6°F). Moreover, rainfall is quite insignificant during this period, further exacerbating the intense heat. Sea temperatures do rise to an inviting 30.4°C (86.7°F) to 31.2°C (88.2°F), but the extreme heat might deter many from outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Suakin
Spring in
Suakin, encompassing the months from
March to
May, is characterized by rapidly rising temperatures. March starts with a high of 27°C (80.6°F), but by May, this can rise to a high of 33°C (91.4°F). Minimum temperatures climb too, from 20°C (68°F) to 24°C (75.2°F) over the same period. Rainfall is practically absent in these months. However, sea temperatures rise steadily, hitting a warm 28.3°C (82.9°F) in May, perfect for swimming.
Summer weather in Suakin
Summer in
Suakin is extremely hot and dry, with maximum temperatures hitting between 38°C (100.4°F) to 42°C (107.6°F) from
June to
August. The nights offer little relief, with minimum temperatures well above 25°C (77°F). Fortunately, the sea provides a respite with temperatures peaking at 31.2°C (88.2°F) in August. Prolonged sunlight, averaging 13.2 hours per day in June, accentuates the arid conditions, but also presents ample opportunity for daytime activities.
Autumn weather in Suakin
Autumn months from
September to
November see a minor reduction in temperatures, ranging from highs of 37°C (98.6°F) to 27°C (80.6°F). The nights become more manageable, with lows falling between 26°C (78.8°F) and 23°C (73.4°F). Rainfall returns, marking the start of the wet season in
Suakin, culminating in November with significant precipitation of 54mm (2.13"). Sea temperatures remain high, with a narrow decline from 30.9°C (87.6°F) to 29.3°C (84.7°F).
Winter weather in Suakin
Winter in
Suakin, from
December to
February, brings relatively cooler conditions. Daytime highs fall between 30°C (86°F) and 26°C (78.8°F), while the nights cool down further, with lows from 23°C (73.4°F) to 19°C (66.2°F). The sea temperature drops to 27.4°C (81.3°F) in February, yet remains warm enough for swimming. Despite being one of the cooler seasons, rainfall remains high, especially in December, with an average of 28mm (1.1"). Daylight hours are at their lowest, averaging 11 hours per day in
January.
Weather in January
Begin the year in
Suakin,
Sudan with modest rainfall reaching 8mm (0.31") and sea temperatures holding steady at a comfortable 26°C (78.8°F). The city experiences mild conditions compared to the upcoming scorching summer. The nights are cool, making this a pleasant time for outdoor activities.
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
February,
Suakin experiences a slight decrement in rainfall to 2mm (0.08"), heralding the arrival of drier weather. The city sees a marginal increase in daily sunlight and this marks the transition to a lighter, sunnier climate.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Suakin is marked by dwindling rainfall, reaching a nearly dry spell at 1mm (0.04"). With the onset of spring, the city's weather takes a noticeable turn, characterized by increased daylight hours and the conclusion of the mild winter.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings about the complete changeover from the mild beginning of the year to the hot, arid conditions characteristic of
Suakin. There is a minimal rainfall of 1mm (0.04") signifying the city’s shift towards hotter months. Sea temperatures also soar in accordance with rising weather conditions, embracing summer.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May witnesses a further escalation in temperatures, however, the city remains devoid of rain. The change from the preceding month is evident in the scorching temperatures and relentless sun. The weather is not for the fainthearted during these peak summer months.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the shift in weather conditions, with the city braving the maximum high temperature of 38°C (100.4°F). It is the zenith of summer season in
Suakin. The city's climate now is characterized by prolonged hours of sunlight and absence of rainfall.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July follows with the trend of relentless heat, as the mercury inches up a notch to reach the year's peak of 42°C (107.6°F). The excruciating heat during this period can make it uncomfortable, even for the residents accustomed to the Sudanese climate.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August, there is a slight dip in temperature, offering marginal relief from the scorching
July heat. However, the city of
Suakin endures the heat with sea temperatures rising to 31.2°C (88.2°F). Despite these conditions, residents embrace the city's weather with resilience and adaptability.
Weather in August »Weather in September
The weather in
Suakin starts to slowly cool down in
September. However, the city experiences no rainfall during this month. The nights are still warm, and the daylight gradually decreases. The weather remains dry and arid, typical of a desolate desert landscape.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings noticeable respite from the heat in the form of increased rainfall. The city receives a significant 16mm (0.63") of rain, offering a break from the dry spell. The pervasive heat is gradually replaced with cool breezes signalling the onset of fall.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November records the highest rainfall of the year with a substantial 54mm (2.13") recorded in
Suakin. This arrival of rainfall combined with lower temperatures marks the transition of weather towards a milder climate. It's a sharp change of weather pattern after months-long scorching summer.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December brings a balanced climate to
Suakin with temperatures reaching a comfortable range from 21°C (69.8°F) to 27°C (80.6°F). The rainfall sees a drop to 28mm (1.1") but still maintains the cool atmosphere of the city. The weather is conducive to outdoor activities and exploration.
Weather in December »