Sudan has a vast territory with a diverse range of climate zones from tropical to desert climates, and the four seasons primarily unfold according to temperature changes and the rhythms of the wet and dry seasons. Below are the climatic characteristics of each season and their relationship with significant traditional and modern events and cultures.
Spring (March to May)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: An extremely hot period where daytime maximum temperatures may exceed 40°C
- Precipitation: Almost no rainfall. Dust storms (haboub) are likely to occur.
- Characteristics: Dry strong winds and dust. Long sunlight hours with intense ultraviolet rays.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
| March |
Migration of Nuba tribes (beginning of the season) |
Pastoralists move in search of grasslands at the end of the dry season. Focus is on finding water sources and livestock management. |
| April |
Preparations for Islamic calendar events |
Procurement of supplies and major household cleaning before Ramadan. The importance of preserved foods increases due to high temperatures and dryness. |
| May |
Ramadan (variable) |
The onset of fasting makes daytime heat burdensome. Iftar (breaking the fast) takes advantage of the coolness after sunset. |
Summer (June to August)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Extremely hot in the North, somewhat more comfortable but humid in the South.
- Precipitation: The rainy season arrives in the South and Central regions. Rainfall is concentrated from mid-June to September (most of the annual rainfall).
- Characteristics: Signs of flooding in the upper Nile region. Peak of reforestation and farming activities.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
| June |
Start of the rainy season |
Farmers plant rice fields and sesame farms. Agricultural activities align with rainfall. |
| July |
Harvest preparations |
Grains enter a growth peak, and cooperative activities increase in rural communities. |
| August |
Eid al-Adha (variable) |
Livestock's health is assessed, and sheep or cows raised for sacrifice reach their optimal timing. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Gradually decreases after the rainy season. Around 35°C during the day, relatively cool at night.
- Precipitation: Intermittent rain until the end of September, transitioning to dry season after October.
- Characteristics: Air becomes clean, grasslands recover. Harvest season for crops.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
| September |
Rainy season end festival (local event) |
A festival celebrating the safety of the rainy season. Gatherings and folk dances take place in public squares. |
| October |
Sorghum harvest festival |
Celebrating the harvest of sorghum, a staple crop. A time to start stockpiling for the dry season. |
| November |
Khartoum Marathon |
A citizen marathon taking advantage of the cool, stable climate. Contributes to tourism promotion. |
Winter (December to February)
Climatic Characteristics
- Temperature: Comfortable around 25°C during the day, with some regions cooling below 10°C at night.
- Precipitation: Almost no rainfall during the dry season. Fog and dew are likely to occur.
- Characteristics: Continual clear skies, optimal for Nile River cruises and tourism.
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Relationship with Climate |
| December |
Khartoum International Book Fair |
A large event including outdoor booths, held taking advantage of the dry, sunny weather. |
| January |
Independence Day (January 1) |
A national holiday celebrating Sudan's independence. Parades and ceremonies are held in cool weather. |
| February |
Nubian Culture Festival |
Traditional dances and music are showcased in the Nubian region along the Nile River. The pleasant climate serves as favorable conditions. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
| Season |
Climatic Characteristics |
Major Event Examples |
| Spring |
Extreme heat, dryness, dust storms |
Nuba tribe migration, Ramadan preparations |
| Summer |
Rainy season in the South, flood signs |
Start of rainy season farming, Eid al-Adha |
| Autumn |
End of rainy season, cool breeze, harvest period |
Rainy season end festival, sorghum harvest festival, Khartoum Marathon |
| Winter |
Dry, clear, cool nights |
International Book Fair, Independence Day, Nubian Culture Festival |
Additional Notes
- Many events in Sudan are based on the Islamic lunar calendar, leading to shifts in Gregorian calendar months each year.
- The agricultural culture is strong, with the arrival of the rainy season and harvest times closely linked to community festivals.
- The pleasant climate during the dry season stimulates tourism and outdoor events.
- The fluctuating water levels of the Nile River have traditionally been connected to cultural events such as flood festivals.
The seasons and events in Sudan are closely intertwined with the climate rhythm, supporting various activities related to agriculture, religion, and local culture.
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