Western Sahara is largely classified as a tropical desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh), with annual precipitation below 50 mm, plenty of sunny days, and significant diurnal and annual temperature variations. Below are the climate characteristics and main seasonal events and culture for each season.
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 25 to 35 °C, and nighttime temperatures range from 15 to 20 °C, making it comfortable; however, early spring experiences significant temperature variations.
- Precipitation: It rarely rains, but occasional remnants of winter rain may be observed from March to April.
- Wind: Spring is the season for the Sirocco (sandstorm), which can limit visibility ([University of East Anglia][1]).
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| March-April |
Ramadan (Month of Fasting) |
A movable holiday according to the Islamic calendar. Fasting occurs during the dry heat of the day ([Wikipedia][2]). |
| May |
Polisario Front Formation Anniversary |
Established on May 10, 1973. Ceremonies are held in relatively comfortable weather ([Wikipedia][2]). |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Coastal areas average around 30 °C, while inland areas often exceed 40 °C, occasionally reaching nearly 50 °C.
- Precipitation: Almost nonexistent. The atmosphere is very dry, and heatwaves are common.
- Characteristics: Night temperatures also remain high at around 25 °C, resulting in many tropical nights ([Wikipedia][3]).
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| Around 10th of Muharram |
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) |
A movable holiday according to the Islamic calendar. Family and friends gather for rituals in extreme heat ([Wikipedia][2]). |
| June |
Martyrs' Day |
Commemorates June 9, 1976. Outdoor events take place in the extreme heat ([Wikipedia][2]). |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures drop to around 30 °C, and nighttime temperatures are about 20 °C, making it more comfortable.
- Precipitation: Almost no rain, but localized showers may occur in September due to monsoon effects.
- Wind: Strong northeast winds and Sirocco winds continue to occur ([University of East Anglia][1]).
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| October |
GKA Kite Surf World Cup Dakhla |
One of the world's premier kite surfing competitions. Mild autumn breezes and moderate temperatures create favorable conditions ([GKA Kite World Tour][4]). |
| November |
Mawlid (Prophet's Birthday) |
A movable holiday according to the Islamic calendar. Religious events are held in dry, cool breezes ([Wikipedia][2]). |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures are comfortable at 20 to 25 °C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10 °C, leading to some chilly nights.
- Precipitation: Very rare drizzle or light rain may occur along the coast, while the interior sees almost no rain.
- Characteristics: Radiative cooling causes significant temperature variations between morning and evening, allowing for a cool winter experience ([University of East Anglia][1]).
Main Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Relation to Climate |
| January |
Islamic New Year (1st of Muharram) |
A movable holiday according to the Islamic calendar. It is celebrated in the dry, cool climate of morning and evening ([Wikipedia][2]). |
| February |
Independence Day (February 27) |
Declared in 1976 for the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Ceremonies take place during warm daytime ([Wikipedia][2]). |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationship
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Example Main Events |
| Spring |
Significant temperature variations, dry, sandstorms |
Ramadan, Polisario Front Formation Anniversary |
| Summer |
Persistent heat, no risk of high humidity |
Eid al-Adha, Martyrs' Day |
| Autumn |
Comfortable temperatures, dry, strong winds |
GKA Kite Surf World Cup Dakhla, Mawlid |
| Winter |
Warm during the day, cool at night, light rain |
Islamic New Year, Independence Day |
Additional Notes
- Islamic calendar-based holidays move through the seasons each year.
- The dry desert climate significantly influences lifestyle and the timing of outdoor events.
- Tourism and sporting events are concentrated in the stable seasons of wind and temperature (autumn).
In Western Sahara, under harsh desert conditions, religious events and culturally significant gatherings are deeply intertwined with the daily lives of the people.
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