Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Giza, Egypt, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BWh, characterized by a hot desert climate. Temperature fluctuations are notable, with a minimum recorded at 1°C (35°F) in January, while average temperatures hover around a balmy 23°C (74°F). The peak of the heat is observed in May, when temperatures soar to a sweltering maximum of 45°C (114°F). This stark contrast between the cooler winter months and the intense summer heat underscores Giza's unique climatic conditions.
Giza, Egypt, exhibits distinct temperature patterns throughout the year, characterized by mild winters and intensely hot summers. In the winter months of January and February, temperatures are comparatively cooler, with minimums around 1-3°C (35-39°F) and average highs peaking at 28°C (83°F) and 32°C (90°F), respectively. As spring approaches, March and April see a gradual warming trend, with maximum temperatures rising sharply to 38°C (100°F) in March and reaching 41°C (107°F) in April. This upward trajectory culminates in the scorching summer months of May through August, where temperatures frequently surpass 40°C (104°F), peaking at an extreme 45°C (114°F) in May. The warmth persists into September, gradually easing into more moderate conditions in October and November before returning to the coolness of winter in December. This seasonal variation highlights Giza’s transition from comfortable winters to severe summer heat, defining its climatic identity.
Giza experiences a significant temperature variation throughout the year, with January bringing a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F) and May soaring to a maximum of 45°C (113°F). For a detailed overview of the monthly temperatures in Giza, you can refer to the provided link: monthly temperatures in Giza.
Giza, Egypt, experiences extremely low levels of precipitation throughout the year, typically characterized as arid desert conditions. January marks the onset of minor rainfall with approximately 3 mm (0.1 in) recorded, followed by a slight increase in February to 8 mm (0.3 in). March sees the highest monthly total at 13 mm (0.5 in), offering a brief respite from the otherwise dry climate. Notably, April through September report negligible precipitation, with May through August experiencing no rainfall at all.
As the year progresses, precipitation remains scarce, with only minor amounts recorded in October and November, both at 2 mm (0.1 in) each, and returning to 3 mm (0.1 in) in December. The distribution of rainy days is equally sparse, with little to no occurrences noted from April through September. This persistent lack of rainfall underscores the exceptional dryness of Giza's climate, contributing to its classification as a hot desert environment, consistent with the broader characteristics of the region.
Giza, Egypt, basks in an abundance of sunshine throughout the year, with a clear seasonal trend characterized by an increase in sunshine hours from winter to summer. In January, the city enjoys 238 hours of sunlight, signaling the start of the year in a relatively mild condition. As February transitions to March, sunshine hours rise significantly, with March bringing 337 hours, followed by April at 351 hours. This upward trajectory continues as the days grow longer and warmer, peaking in the summer months, with July recording an impressive 402 hours of sunshine.
The summer months of May through August are particularly notable for their high sunlight exposure, averaging over 385 hours each month. June closely follows July, with 389 hours, while August sees a slight dip to 385 hours, yet remains robustly sunny. As autumn approaches in September, sunshine begins to taper off, with 344 hours recorded, continuing the downward trend into late fall and winter. By November, sunlight availability decreases to 296 hours, and December sees 285 hours, marking a return to the lower levels observed at the beginning of the year. This clear seasonal progression highlights Giza’s status as a sun-drenched destination, with the summer months offering abundant daylight ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
Giza, Egypt, experiences a significant variation in UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting its geographical location and climate. In January, the UV Index begins at a moderate level of 6, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of approximately 25 minutes without protection. As winter transitions into spring, February sees an increase to 8, prompting a cautionary approach due to the very high exposure risk. March further escalates to a UV Index of 10, while April signifies a shift into extreme levels with a peak index of 11, reducing safe exposure time to just 10 minutes.
The summer months are particularly intense, with the UV Index reaching its maximum of 12 from May through August, labeling the exposure category as extreme. During this period, only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure is advisable, highlighting the critical importance of sun protection measures. As autumn approaches, September slightly lowers to 11, followed by a decrease to 9 in October, still within the very high exposure category. November and December bring further declines, with November at a controlled level of 7 and December dropping to a moderate 5. This seasonal trend emphasizes the necessity for vigilant sun protection, especially during the summer months when the sun’s intensity is at its peak.
UV Risk Categories
Giza, Egypt, showcases a dynamic range of daylight duration throughout the year, reflecting the city’s position in the northern hemisphere. In January, daylight lasts approximately 10 hours, gradually increasing to 11 hours in both February and March. As spring unfolds in April, the days continue to lengthen, with 12 hours of daylight, culminating in May when the city enjoys an optimal 13 hours of sunshine, inviting outdoor activities and exploration of its rich historical sites.
The peak daylight period occurs in June, with a maximum of 14 hours, providing ample opportunity for daylight pursuits. However, this summer abundance begins to taper off in July and August, both retaining a daylight duration of 13 hours. The transition to autumn sees a gradual reduction, dropping to 12 hours in September and further decreasing to 11 hours by October. This decline continues into the winter months, with November and December each offering 10 hours of daylight. This seasonal pattern highlights Giza's rich exposure to sunlight, enhancing its allure as a destination for visitors year-round.
Giza, Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extreme temperatures and minimal precipitation. Summer months from May to August see high averages, peaking at 45°C (113°F) in May, with consistent sunshine exceeding 380 hours per month. Conversely, winter months like January and February are mild, with temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 31°C (87°F). Rainfall is scarce, mostly occurring in winter, totaling just a few millimeters throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Giza climate.
In conclusion, Giza, Egypt, presents a fascinating climate characterized by stark seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. With its hot desert climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BWh, visitors can expect scorching summer months dominated by high UV exposure and extended daylight, while the winter months provide a milder, yet still sunny, experience. The city's minimal precipitation reinforces its arid nature, making sun protection a crucial consideration year-round. Overall, Giza's climatic patterns not only define its environmental appeal but also enrich the experiences of those drawn to its iconic history and breathtaking landscapes.