Last updated: January 18, 2025
Muharraq, Bahrain, is characterized by a BWh climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, indicating a distinct arid environment. The city experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with minimum temperatures dropping to 9°C (49°F) in February and peaking at an impressive 39°C (102°F) during the sweltering month of August. The average temperature is a warm 27°C (81°F), underscoring the region's predominantly hot and dry conditions that define its unique climate landscape.
Muharraq, Bahrain experiences a notable progression in temperature patterns throughout the year, reflecting distinct seasonal trends. The winter months of January and February see milder temperatures, with average highs around 18°C (65°F) to 24°C (75°F), before transitioning into spring, where March marks a gradual warming that culminates in April's average of 25°C (77°F). As summer approaches in May and June, temperatures surge, with averages climbing to 29°C (84°F) and 33°C (91°F), respectively. The peak of summer is reached in July and August, characterized by scorching conditions, where maximum temperatures can soar up to 39°C (102°F). As the year progresses into the cooler autumn months of October and November, a gradual decline in temperatures occurs, bringing relief with averages settling around 30°C (87°F) before dropping further to 21°C (70°F) by December. Overall, the climate of Muharraq is marked by a hot and dry summer contrasted with milder winter months, showcasing a clear seasonal variation.
In Al Hadd, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in August, while Al Muharraq experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) in February and a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in August. For more details, you can check the monthly temperatures in Al Hadd here and in Al Muharraq here.
Precipitation in Muharraq, Bahrain exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the cooler months. January begins the year with a modest rainfall of 4 mm (0.2 in), followed by a significant increase in February, where 26 mm (1.0 in) of rain is recorded, marking the wettest month of the year. This is complemented by additional precipitation in March and April, recording 12 mm (0.5 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in), respectively. However, the onset of summer in May heralds a dramatic decline in rainfall, with no precipitation reported from May through September, highlighting the arid conditions typical of the region during these months.
As the cooler months return, November and December bring slight relief with 10 mm (0.4 in) and 11 mm (0.4 in) of rainfall, respectively, although it remains limited. The number of rainy days reflects this pattern, with January through April experiencing one to two days of rain, while the summer months see a complete absence of rainfall. This trend underscores the dry climate of Muharraq, with sporadic rainfall primarily concentrated in winter months, resulting in overall low annual precipitation estimates.
In Muharraq, Bahrain, sunshine duration demonstrates a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter into summer. January starts the year with 241 hours of sunshine, followed by a significant rise to 283 hours in February. As spring transitions into summer, the amount of sunshine peaks, reaching up to 369 hours in May and continuing to rise to a maximum of 376 hours in July, making these months particularly radiant. This increase in sunshine beautifully complements the warm temperatures characteristic of the season, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy ample outdoor activities.
As summer gradually fades into autumn, sunshine hours begin to decrease, although they remain substantial. August still offers impressive 363 hours, while September and October see a decline to 340 hours and 324 hours, respectively. In the cooler months of November and December, sunshine levels drop to 293 hours and 295 hours, indicating a shift towards shorter days. Overall, Muharraq's sunshine duration not only highlights the abundance of bright days during the summer but also underscores the notable variability across different seasons, making it a vibrant destination year-round.
The UV Index in Muharraq, Bahrain reveals a marked seasonal variation, with levels peaking during the summer months and fluctuating throughout the year. Starting in January, the UV Index registers a moderate to high level at 6, allowing for exposure without significant risk. As winter progresses into February, this increases to 7, maintaining a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. A dramatic shift occurs in March and April, where the UV Index reaches 10, signifying very high exposure levels. During May and June, the situation intensifies even further, with an extreme UV Index of 11, necessitating protective measures for outdoor activity.
The trend continues into the peak summer months of July and August, where the UV Index remains at 10 and a very high risk persists. As the year moves into autumn, the UV levels decrease, with September marking a slight decline to 9, while October enjoys a UV Index of 8. By November, the threat drops to a 6, returning to a high exposure category, while December sees the lowest level of the year at 5, categorized as moderate. This seasonal fluctuation in UV Index underscores the importance of sun protection, particularly from spring through early autumn, where the potential for skin damage is significantly heightened.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Muharraq, Bahrain exhibits a predictable seasonal rhythm, transitioning from shorter days during winter to longer days in the summer. In January, the city experiences approximately 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases throughout February to 11 hours. As spring arrives, March and April both provide 12 hours of daylight, paving the way for the longer sunlit days of summer. May sees daylight extend to 13 hours, a duration that persists through June, July, and August, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment of the sun.
As summer gives way to autumn, daylight starts to diminish, with September maintaining 12 hours, before tapering back to 11 hours in October. The shorter days return in November and December, falling back to 10 hours, aligning with the cooler months. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only emphasizes the vibrancy of summer in Muharraq but also highlights the seasonal changes that influence the daily lives of its residents throughout the year.
Al Hadd, Bahrain experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees temperatures ranging from 12°C to 23°C, while July can reach as high as 38°C. The region receives minimal rainfall, predominantly in February (25 mm), with the summer months remaining completely dry. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 377 hours, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers. For more detailed information, visit Al Hadd climate.
Al Muharraq, Bahrain experiences a hot desert climate with temperatures peaking in the summer months, reaching highs of up to 39°C (102°F) in August. Winter months, such as January and February, are milder with average temperatures around 18°C (65°F) and occasional lows of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is scarce, with minimal rainfall primarily occurring in the winter, totaling only about 46 mm for the year. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer, with July boasting up to 376 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Al Muharraq climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Muharraq, Bahrain, is marked by its arid conditions, significant temperature variability, and distinct seasonal patterns in sunshine duration and UV Index. The region experiences hot summers with peak temperatures that coincide with long hours of daylight, facilitating outdoor enjoyment despite elevated UV exposure risks. Conversely, the milder winter months provide a welcome respite, showcasing a lower UV Index and a manageable range of daylight hours. Understanding these climatic characteristics not only enhances the appreciation of Muharraq's unique environment but also underscores the importance of protective measures against sun exposure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for residents and travelers alike.