Current Weather in Dakhla

The cultural and meteorological awareness regarding the climate of Western Sahara is shaped by the wisdom and ingenuity of the people living in the harsh environment of the desert. Below, the main features are organized under major and minor headings.

Desert Climate and Adaptation in Daily Life

Water Resource Management

• The locations of wells and oases are memorized according to the seasons, and movement routes are adjusted accordingly.
• Techniques for collecting the scant precipitation during the rainy season have been passed down.

Housing and Architectural Techniques

• A tent structure that emphasizes ventilation (Berber tent) is used to ensure coolness.
• To block sunlight, the entrance of the tents is positioned to face north during the daytime.

Awareness of Monsoons and Sandstorms

Coping with Harmattan (The Dry Season Wind)

• Traditional scarves (shemzals) are used to protect the eyes and mouth from fine sand dust.
• During periods of intense sandstorms, people avoid going out and share information through oral communication.

Weather Forecasting Using Ground and Constellations

• There is a habit of judging the arrival of sandstorms by how the stars twinkle in the night sky.
• The change in colors of the horizon at dawn and dusk is used to predict wind direction and temperature changes.

Nomadic Culture and Calendars

Movement and Festivals of Nomads

• Based on the conditions of water sources and pastures, the schedule for moving livestock is determined.
• Settlement festivals (exchanges with Mauritania) are held at seasonal milestones in oases.

Religious Events Based on the Islamic Calendar

• The start of Ramadan and Eid is determined by moon observations, which are influenced by weather conditions affecting visibility.
• To avoid the residual heat of the rainy season, working hours during fasting are adjusted.

Clothing, Food, and Climate Sensibility

Functionality of Traditional Clothing

• Lightweight yet densely woven Gandhara cloth blocks sunlight and sand.
• Light sand colors are predominant, promoting reflection of sunlight.

Food Culture and Preservation Techniques

• Dried fruits and dehydrated meats are used to store nutrients for the long term, conserving precious moisture.
• Seasonal flavors are enjoyed, focusing on dates harvested from oasis agriculture.

Environmental Changes and Challenges

The Impact of Climate Change

• The rainy season is shortening each year and high temperatures are intensifying, leading to a decrease in pastures and water sources.
• The progression of desertification threatens the survival of nomadic routes and settlements.

Sustainable Initiatives

• Small-scale well drilling and greening projects supported by international aid are being attempted.
• Improvements in water management through the fusion of traditional knowledge and scientific technology are ongoing.

Summary

The climate culture of Western Sahara is a fusion of wisdom adapted to the harsh desert environment and responses to modern challenges. If you require more detailed information or further exploration of specific themes, please let me know.