The star Suhail and the significance of its astronomical appearance in the Eastern climatic heritage

Arab Weather - Sunday, August 24, 2025, will be the date for the appearance of the star Suhail in the Arab Levant.
Canopus tends to rise towards the southeast, and can be seen approximately 30 to 50 minutes before sunrise. To see it clearly, it is recommended to look towards the southeast horizon from a relatively high, dark location, away from lights.

The countdown has begun for the appearance of the Canopus star. What is its connection to the summer heat?

Climatic implications

The appearance of the star Suhail is a sign of the beginning of moderate weather, the end of the summer heat, and the improvement of the atmosphere in the Arab Levant. It is also associated with the beginning of preparations for the agricultural seasons and the date harvest.

Does the entry of Suhail coincide with a 180-degree change in the atmosphere? Al-Musnad explains.

Suhail star in Arabic poetry

Suhail is considered the most famous star in the Arab cultural heritage.
Because it is more visible than others, it sparkles and glows with radiance, and its colour changes from red to yellow to green. Concerning this, the poet Abu Al-Ala Al-Maari says:
Suhail is like the cheek of love in color... and the heart of the lover in palpitations.

Suhail star in Arabic proverbs

1. "If Suhail appears, do not be afraid of a flood": This proverb indicates that the appearance of Suhail may be the beginning of heavy rains and floods, so one must be careful and not underestimate the potential floods.
2. "If Suhail rises, the night will be pleasant": This proverb indicates that Suhail is a sign of the beginning of moderate weather at night and a drop in temperatures.
3. “When Suhail rises, you can feel the dates at night.” This proverb describes the abundance of dates during the season of Suhail’s appearance, when the dates are ripe and ready to be picked.

What did the Arabs say about the star Suhail?