Sirte Weather Today

Climate and Weather in Surt, Libya

Surt, also known as Sirte, is a city located on the Mediterranean coast of Libya. It is known for its historical significance and its unique climate. In this article, we will explore the climate and weather conditions in Surt throughout the year.

Geographical Location

Surt is situated in the central part of Libya, on the Gulf of Sidra. It is located at a latitude of approximately 31 degrees north and a longitude of around 16 degrees east. Its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea has a significant influence on its weather patterns.

Temperature

Surt experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by long, hot summers and mild winters. The city enjoys high temperatures throughout the year, with the summer months being particularly scorching.

During the summer, which extends from June to September, temperatures can soar well above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The highest recorded temperature in Surt was 51 degrees Celsius (124 degrees Fahrenheit) in July 1957. The city experiences very little rainfall during these months.

Winters in Surt are relatively mild compared to other parts of Libya. The months from December to February see average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 6 degrees Celsius (43 degrees Fahrenheit), but frost and snowfall are extremely rare occurrences.

Rainfall

Surt is known for its arid climate, with very low annual rainfall. The city receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, particularly from November to March. However, even during this period, precipitation levels remain relatively low.

The average annual rainfall in Surt is around 100 millimeters (3.9 inches). The highest recorded rainfall in the city occurred in January 1982, with a total of 315 millimeters (12.4 inches) over the month. These rainfall amounts are significantly lower compared to other coastal cities in the Mediterranean region.

Wind Patterns

Surt experiences moderate to strong winds throughout the year, thanks to its coastal location. The prevailing winds in the region blow from the northwest and are known as the "Ghibli" winds. These winds can bring dust storms and sandstorms, especially during the summer months.

The Ghibli winds can significantly impact visibility and create challenging conditions for outdoor activities. It is advisable to take precautions and stay indoors during these periods.

Climate Graph

Let's take a look at the climate graph for Surt, which provides a visual representation of the average monthly temperature and rainfall:

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Surt is during the spring or autumn months when temperatures are more comfortable. From March to May and from September to November, the weather is warm but not excessively hot, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.

During these months, the city experiences milder temperatures, ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), with lower chances of extreme heat. It is also a good time to enjoy the city's coastal attractions.

Conclusion

Surt, Libya, offers a hot desert climate with scorching summers and mild winters. The city experiences low annual rainfall and is susceptible to strong winds, including dust storms and sandstorms. Visitors are advised to plan their trips during the spring or autumn months to enjoy more pleasant temperatures and avoid extreme heat.