March ushers in a salient shift from winter to summer. The sun continues to dominate the sky, leading to a noticeable escalation in temperature that reaches a high of 34.9°C (94.8°F). However, nights still offer cooler relief with temperatures dropping significantly. This combination of hot days and cool nights make March an interesting month weather-wise. Residents look forward to the month's end when summer in
Mecca,
Saudi Arabia truly begins to set in.
Temperature
A slight uplift in the average high-temperature marks March in Mecca, adjusting from
February's 31.7°C (89.1°F) to a still hot 34.9°C (94.8°F). Mecca, after an intense day, registers a significant cooling to an average low-temperature of 21.1°C (70°F) throughout March.
Heat index
March's average heat index is estimated at a scorching 40°C (104°F). Preventive measures are required to mitigate the risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Continuous activity may precipitate heatstroke.
Heat index specifics point out values are for conditions of shade and a slight breeze. With exposure to direct sunlight, the heat index may be increased by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', is a calculated temperature value of how hot it feels when the moisture in the air is factored in. Depending on the activity and the individual's heat perception, which may vary due to factors including wind, clothing, and metabolic variations, this effect remains subjective. Direct sun rays have a notable impact on perceived temperature, which can raise the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly important for children. Children typically face more danger than adults as their sweat production is usually lower. Additionally, the bigger skin surface compared to their small size and the increased heat due to their activeness exacerbate the risk.
When the body gets too warm, it perspires, leading to sweat evaporation which cools it down. Heightened relative humidity interferes with the body's usual cooling mechanism by reducing evaporation, subsequently decreasing the body's cooling rate and increasing the sensation of heat. Heat-related disorders may develop if heat gain in the body overshadows its cooling capacity, leading to elevated temperatures.
Humidity
In March, the average relative humidity in Mecca is 48%.
Rainfall
In March, in Mecca, the rain falls for 1.8 days. Throughout March, 6mm (0.24") of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, in Mecca, there are 22.4 rainfall days, and 112mm (4.41") of precipitation is accumulated.
Daylight
In Mecca, the average length of the day in March is 12h and 2min.
On the first day of March in Mecca, sunrise is at 06:40 and sunset at 18:24. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:14 and sunset at 18:35 +03.
Sunshine
In Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the average sunshine in March is 9.1h.
UV index
March through
September, with an average maximum UV index of 12, are months with the highest UV index. A UV Index reading of 11, and higher, represents an ultimate health vulnerability from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: The maximum UV index of 12 during March translates into these guidelines:
Employ every crucial safety step. Those with fair skin could experience burns in a matter of minutes. Avoid direct exposure to the Sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the peak period for UV radiation, noting that objects like parasols or canopies might not offer complete sun protection. On bright days sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays should be worn. A hat with a wide brim is extremely helpful, as it can prevent roughly 50% of UV radiation from reaching the eyes. Even on cloudy days, a sunscreen with a minimum 30 sun protection factor should be generously applied and frequently re-applied, including after every swim or outdoor exercise.