Star Canopus to Rise Over Bahrain on Sunday, Marking Seasonal Shift

TDT | Manama

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Bahrain will witness the rising of the star Canopus (known locally as “Suhail”) on Sunday, a celestial event long regarded by people in the Arabian Gulf as a sign of the summer heat easing and the gradual arrival of milder weather.

Canopus is a “supergiant” star and the second-brightest star in the night sky after Sirius. It shines more than 10,000 times brighter than the Sun, making it one of the most visible stars above the horizon.

Astronomy researcher Mohammed Redha Al Asfoor explained that while the appearance of Suhail holds cultural significance, it does not mean temperatures will immediately cool down. “The autumn equinox and the true end of summer will only come on September 22,” he noted. “In Bahrain and across the region, the drop in temperatures happens gradually. The rising of Suhail is more of a traditional astronomical marker than a direct climate influence.”

Historically, Arabs considered the appearance of Suhail as a signal of seasonal change and the approach of equal day and night. However, Al Asfoor clarified that in Bahrain’s coastal and island setting, high heat and humidity often persist until the beginning of October.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Directorate forecast continued high temperatures next week. The maximum temperature is expected to reach 44°C on Saturday and Sunday, and 45°C on Monday and Tuesday. Humidity levels will also remain high, ranging between 80% and 85%.