Weather in Qal‘at as Sādah

Overview

Qal‘at as Sādah is a location situated in the Salah ad Din governorate of Iraq. This area is known for its distinct climatic conditions and weather patterns which are influenced by its geographical location and local environmental factors. The region's climate has a significant impact on the lifestyle of its inhabitants as well as its overall economic activity.

Climate of Qal‘at as Sādah

The climate in Qal‘at as Sādah is categorized as hot desert (BWh) according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. This implies that the location experiences extremely hot summers and mild winters with minimal rainfall throughout the year.

Weather Patterns

In Qal‘at as Sādah, the year is divided into two distinct periods based on the weather conditions: the hot period and the cool period. The hot period lasts for about four months, from June to September, with an average daily high temperature above 40°C. The cool period lasts for about three months, from December to February, with an average daily high temperature below 20°C.

Hot Period

The hot period in Qal‘at as Sādah is characterized by extreme heat, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C. The hottest month is July, with an average high of 43°C and an average low of 27°C. Despite the high temperatures, the area receives minimal rainfall, with the driest month, June, averaging around 1 mm of rainfall.

Cool Period

The cool period, on the other hand, is relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C. The coldest month is January, with an average high of 16°C and an average low of 6°C. Rainfall is slightly more common during this period, with the wettest month, January, receiving an average of 33 mm of rainfall.

Annual Rainfall and Sunshine

Annually, Qal‘at as Sādah receives a minimal amount of rainfall, averaging around 150 mm. The majority of this rainfall occurs during the cool period, with the months of December, January, and February accounting for nearly half of the annual total. Despite the low rainfall, the region experiences high levels of sunshine year-round, averaging approximately 3,000 hours of sunshine per year.

Effect of Climate on Lifestyle and Economy

The climate of Qal‘at as Sādah has a significant impact on the lifestyle and economy of the region. The extreme heat during the summer months restricts outdoor activities and often necessitates the use of air conditioning and other cooling methods. Furthermore, the lack of rainfall limits agricultural activities, making the region heavily reliant on the Tigris River for irrigation.

Adaptation to Climate

The inhabitants of Qal‘at as Sādah have adapted to the harsh climatic conditions over the centuries. Traditional houses are built with thick walls and small windows to keep the interiors cool during the hot summers. Moreover, the local cuisine is adapted to the climate, with a focus on dishes that can be prepared without the need for fresh produce, which is scarce due to the limited rainfall.

Conclusion

The climate and weather conditions in Qal‘at as Sādah are distinct and have a profound influence on the lifestyle, economy, and culture of the region. Understanding these conditions is crucial for anyone planning to visit or live in this area.