July

July is the seventh month of the Gregorian calendar, the dating system most widely used in the world. It has 31 days. It follows June and precedes August.

The month's name derives from Julius Caesar, the Roman leader. Previously, the month bore a name based on the earlier numbering of the Roman calendar, which meant 'the fifth', as the old year began in March.

Position in the year and climate

In the Northern Hemisphere, July falls during summer and is one of the warmest months. In the Southern Hemisphere, it is winter at the same time. In countries near the equator, such as Somalia, the temperature variation between months is smaller, but seasonal rainfall and winds do have an effect.

In Somalia, July falls within the Xagaa (rainy season), which is associated with strong winds from the southwest monsoon and rough seas. Some regions receive light rainfall, while others experience drought.

Events and commemorations

Many countries observe national days in July. For example, 1 July is Somalia's Unity Day, commemorating the union of the south and north in 1960. Other notable dates include 4 July, American Independence Day, and 14 July, Bastille Day in France.

Other facts

July and August are two consecutive months, both with 31 days. As a general rule, the first day of July falls on the same day of the week as the first day of April in non-leap years.