Somalia is located in East Africa, and due to its proximity to the equator, a hot and dry climate prevails throughout the year. The influence of the monsoon results in alternating rainy and dry seasons, which strongly affect lifestyles such as pastoralism and agriculture. Below, I will introduce the characteristics of Somalia's climate by season, along with cultural events.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Many days exceed 30°C during the day.
- Precipitation: A major rainy season called Gu occurs from April to May.
- Feature: Transition period from the dry season to the rainy season, which is used as a guideline for starting agricultural activities.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| March |
Preparation for Agriculture |
Land preparation and seeding begins in anticipation of the rainy season. |
| April |
Start of Gu Rainy Season |
Significant rainfall begins, leading to intensified agricultural work. Pastoral activities also expand. |
| May |
Movement of Livestock |
The nomadic culture is observed moving in search of pastures as grass grows. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Extreme heat, rising up to around 40°C.
- Precipitation: Very little rainfall, known as the Xagaa dry season.
- Feature: A season characterized by strong winds, leading to dust and sand damage.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| June |
Start of Xagaa Dry Season |
A harsh season for farming and livestock. Securing water sources becomes crucial. |
| July |
Fishing Activities in Coastal Areas |
Due to high temperatures inland, fishing becomes central to life in coastal areas. |
| August |
Water Securing Rituals |
Traditions of rain prayers and rituals may occur in some regions. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Drops to around 30°C, becoming more comfortable.
- Precipitation: A short rainy season called Dayr occurs around October.
- Feature: An important season for the resumption of farming.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| September |
Reconditioning Fields |
Preparations and reconditioning of agricultural land take place for the short rainy season. |
| October |
Start of Dayr Rainy Season |
Cultivation of short-term crops occurs. Pastoral activities may also become active in some areas. |
| November |
Harvest Season and Market Activity |
Harvesting short-term crops corresponds with lively trading in regional markets. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Relatively mild, ranging from 25 to 30°C, is a comfortable season.
- Precipitation: The most arid season known as Jilaal.
- Feature: A tough time for nomads, making water source management crucial.
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| December |
Start of Jilaal Dry Season |
In anticipation of pasture shortages, livestock movement and sales are managed. |
| January |
Movement of Pastoralists |
Movements to distant areas take place to cope with severe dry season conditions. |
| February |
Clan Gatherings |
In some regions, gatherings or rituals based on tribal and family units occur at the beginning of the year. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relation
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Examples of Main Events |
| Spring |
High temperatures and start of major rainy season |
Gu rainy season, agricultural preparations, pastoral activities |
| Summer |
Extreme heat, dry season, strong winds |
Xagaa dry season, water rituals, coastal fishing activities |
| Autumn |
Short rainy season, temperature drop |
Dayr rainy season, harvesting, re-tilling, resumption of pastoralism |
| Winter |
Most arid, mild temperatures |
Jilaal dry season, pastoral movements, clan new year rituals |
Supplement
- Somalia's seasons are based on the cycle of dry and rainy seasons, which connects the entire livelihood of agriculture, pastoralism, and fishing.
- Particularly in nomadic cultures, securing rain and water sources is the highest priority, with seasonal movements and rituals forming the core of life.
- Climate and religious events based on the Islamic calendar (such as Ramadan and Eid) are intertwined, showing harmony between festive days and climatic conditions.
In Somalia, a unique sense of seasonality has developed in coexistence with a harsh natural environment, and the climate is closely linked to people's activities. The lifestyles and cultural events observed in each season have evolved in adaptation to natural conditions such as dryness, rainfall, and temperature.
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