Weather overview
The climate in Северный Хартум is defined by two distinct periods: a long, dry season and a short, unpredictable wet phase. From November to April, the city sees almost no rainfall, with clear skies and steadily rising temperatures. By May, the heat peaks, and the first signs of moisture appear, though significant rains are still rare.
Between July and September, Северный Хартум experiences its brief rainy season. Even then, downpours are sporadic and usually brief, though they can bring temporary relief from the heat. The rest of the year, the city remains dry, with warm days and cooler nights, making it a place where water and shade become priorities for visitors.
Temperature
Temperatures in Северный Хартум follow a predictable rhythm, with the hottest months falling between April and June. During this period, daytime highs often exceed +40 °C, while nights offer little respite, staying above +25 °C. The heat is most intense in May, when the average reaches +35.6 °C, making outdoor activities challenging without preparation.
From November to February, the weather in Северном Хартуме is far more comfortable. Daytime temperatures hover around +31...+32 °C, while nights cool to +17...+19 °C, providing a pleasant contrast. The transition months—March and October—bring a gradual shift, with temperatures climbing or falling by several degrees each week, signaling the change between seasons.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 17.8 | 31 |
| February | 18.3 | 32 |
| March | 22.1 | 36.2 |
| April | 25.8 | 40.2 |
| May | 29 | 42.1 |
| June | 29.5 | 41 |
| July | 28.2 | 38.7 |
| August | 26.3 | 35.6 |
| September | 27.5 | 38.4 |
| October | 27.2 | 39.2 |
| November | 22.5 | 35.3 |
| December | 18.8 | 31.8 |
Precipitation
Северный Хартум is one of the driest major cities in the world, with most of the year passing without a drop of rain. The dry season stretches from October to June, and even in the wettest months, rainfall is minimal. August is the only month where precipitation becomes noticeable, averaging 43.3 mm, though storms are usually short-lived and localized.
When rain does arrive in Северном Хартуме, it often comes in the form of sudden, heavy downpours, typically in the late afternoon or evening. These bursts can briefly flood streets but are followed by rapid drying under the strong sun. Travelers visiting between July and September should be prepared for occasional showers, though they rarely disrupt plans for long.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 0 |
| February | 0 |
| March | 0 |
| April | 0 |
| May | 1.7 |
| June | 2 |
| July | 7.8 |
| August | 43.3 |
| September | 31.5 |
| October | 9.4 |
| November | 0 |
| December | 0 |
What to pack
For a trip to Северный Хартум between November and February, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, along with a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves year-round, as the sun is intense even during the milder months. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes will help navigate dusty streets and uneven surfaces.
If visiting Северный Хартум during the peak heat of April to June, prioritize loose, long-sleeved clothing to protect against the sun while allowing airflow. A reusable water bottle is critical, as staying hydrated is key to coping with temperatures above +40 °C. For the rainy season, a compact umbrella or a quick-drying rain jacket can be useful, though heavy rain gear is rarely needed.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 5.2 |
| February | 5.5 |
| March | 5 |
| April | 4.5 |
| May | 4.2 |
| June | 4.6 |
| July | 5.2 |
| August | 4.8 |
| September | 4 |
| October | 3.5 |
| November | 4.7 |
| December | 4.9 |