Weather in Qaryat Sulūq

Introduction

Suluq is a fascinating town located in the North African country of Libya. It lies in the Marj District of the Cyrenaica region, known for its intriguing history and diverse climate. From balmy summers to mild winters, Suluq's weather patterns offer a unique climate profile that intrigues meteorologists and tourists alike.

Geographical Location

Suluq is located at 32.08° N latitude and 20.25° E longitude. It is situated at an average altitude of 570 meters above sea level. This geographical positioning greatly influences the town's climate, making it a semi-arid region.

Climate Classification

The climate in Suluq is classified as BSh (Hot Semi-arid climates) under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system. This classification is characterized by low annual rainfall and high temperatures, especially in summer.

Annual Weather Overview

The weather in Suluq varies throughout the year with a range of temperature fluctuations. Here's a detailed breakdown:

1. Temperature: The average annual temperature is around 19.4 °C. In summer, temperatures can rise to an average high of about 31.5 °C in August, while in winter, they can drop to an average low of 7.6 °C in January.
2. Precipitation: Suluq receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 250 mm. The wettest month is typically December with an average rainfall of 49 mm, while the driest month is July with typically 1 mm of rainfall.
3. Humidity: The annual relative humidity is approximately 60%. The most humid month is usually December with an average relative humidity of 70%, while the least humid month is July with an average relative humidity of 50%.
4. Wind Speed: The annual average wind speed is around 13 km/h. The windiest month is usually June with an average wind speed of 17 km/h, while the least windy month is usually October with an average wind speed of 10 km/h.

Seasonal Weather Conditions

The climate in Suluq is influenced by the Mediterranean Sea, resulting in hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. This coastal influence brings about a unique blend of weather conditions that are generally mild compared to the more extreme climates found in landlocked regions of Libya.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Suluq is usually mild and dry, with temperatures gradually rising from an average of 13.8 °C in March to around 20.1 °C in May. Rainfall during this period is relatively low, with an average of 21 mm in March, decreasing to about 9 mm in May.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Suluq is typically hot and dry, with temperatures peaking at an average high of 31.5 °C in August. Rainfall is scarce during this period, with July being the driest month of the year with just 1 mm of rainfall on average.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures from an average of 26.9 °C in September to around 17.5 °C in November. Rainfall starts to increase during this period, with November being the wettest autumn month with an average rainfall of 34 mm.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Suluq is cool and relatively wet, with December being the wettest month of the year with an average rainfall of 49 mm. Temperatures during this period range from an average high of 16.2 °C in December to an average low of 7.6 °C in February.

Conclusion

Suluq's climate offers a unique blend of hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, providing a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year. Its semi-arid climate, influenced by the Mediterranean Sea, makes it an intriguing location for both meteorological studies and tourism. Whether you're a weather enthusiast or a traveler seeking a unique climate experience, Suluq, Libya is certainly worth exploring.