Current Weather in Aleppo

Syria has a diverse range of climates, from Mediterranean to desert climates, and its weather environment has profoundly influenced culture and lifestyles since ancient times. Below, we summarize Syria's cultural and meteorological consciousness related to climate by major themes.

Natural Environment and Regional Differences

Diversity of Climate Zones

• The northwestern coastal area has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by distinct winter rainfall and hot, dry summers.
• Inland areas exhibit a continental climate, with significant temperature variations in winter depending on elevation.
• The eastern and southern regions experience a desert climate, with extremely low annual precipitation and high temperatures.

Historical Background

• Irrigation agriculture developed from ancient times, establishing a culture of crop planting that anticipates the rainy season, including olives and grapes.
• The transition of climates along trade routes promoted the distribution of goods and cultural exchanges.

Agriculture and Seasonal Events

Seasonal Awareness by Crop

• Spring: Local festivals are held in accordance with the sowing period for wheat and barley.
• Summer: During the harvesting season for olives, a sense of solidarity is fostered through harvest festivals and collective work.
• Autumn: The harvesting of grapes and winemaking are conducted as household events.

Traditional Events

• Spring festivals involve rituals for rain, along with music and poetry readings to pray for a good harvest.
• In desert areas, nomads adjust their migration cycles according to the climate.

Adaptation to Food, Clothing, and Shelter

Architecture and Living Environment

• Corner houses have thick walls and small windows to block sunlight and maintain internal coolness.
• The use of natural ventilation systems such as wind towers (tobiah) in desert regions is still partially utilized.

Traditional Clothing and Cuisine

• In summer, light and breathable linen robes are worn, while winter involves layering woolen coats.
• Cuisine features many dried vegetables and preserved foods, making use of preservation processing for out-of-season ingredients.

Water Resource Management and Consciousness

Irrigation and Water-Saving Technologies

• Stone canals (qanats) dating back to Greek and Roman times are still utilized in some areas.
• In recent years, efficient water use through drip irrigation and rainwater tank installation has become widespread.

Daily Water-Saving Awareness

• Households have adopted daily water-saving habits such as shortening shower times.
• Public institutions have seen an increase in water meter installation rates, promoting the visualization of usage.

Modern Climate Change and Challenges

Desertification and Drought

• Frequent long-term droughts have decreased agricultural production, raising concerns about food security.
• Afforestation and desert greening projects have been initiated in collaboration with international organizations.

Urban Heat Islands

• In Damascus and Aleppo, the advancement of concrete buildings has led to notable temperature increases in summer.
• Urban planning is considering the development of green spaces and waterfront areas.

Summary

Syria's climate consciousness is characterized by a deep connection between living knowledge and culture related to the natural environment, ranging from historical irrigation techniques to modern water-saving and greening measures.