Last updated: January 18, 2025
Harari, Ethiopia, is characterized by a Koppen-Geiger climate classification of BSh, indicating a semi-arid environment. Temperature variations throughout the year are notable, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in January, transitioning to an average of 19°C (67°F), and peaking at a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April. This climatic profile underscores the region's pronounced seasonal fluctuations, presenting both challenges and opportunities for local agriculture and biodiversity.
In Harari, Ethiopia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends throughout the year. The year begins with relatively cool temperatures in January, where minimums drop to 7°C (46°F) and daily averages hover around 18°C (66°F). As February rolls in, a gradual warming occurs, with minimums rising to 11°C (52°F) and averages reaching 20°C (69°F). March marks the onset of warmer conditions, maintaining average temperatures of 21°C (71°F) and maximums climbing to 30°C (86°F), which persist into April and May. The warmth begins to stabilize in the late spring and early summer months, characterized by consistent maximums of around 30°C (86°F) to 29°C (84°F). However, a notable cooling trend emerges in July and August, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and average highs around 27°C (81°F). By the fall months of October and November, temperatures again signify a return to cooler conditions, ultimately culminating in the chill of December, where minimum temperatures dip to 8°C (47°F). Across the year, Harari demonstrates a dynamic interplay between warmer and cooler periods, shaping the region's climate narrative.
Harar experiences a temperature range that varies throughout the year, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) in January and a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in April. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Harar.
Precipitation patterns in Harari, Ethiopia, reveal a pronounced seasonal variability, primarily characterized by a distinct wet season from March to September. The year begins with minimal rainfall in January, recording just 2 mm (0.1 in), while February sees a slight increase to 10 mm (0.4 in), marking the precursor to the impending wet months. March experiences a significant spike in precipitation with 32 mm (1.3 in) over approximately 5 days, which sets the stage for the wetter months of April and May. April alone witnesses a dramatic uptick in rainfall, reaching 113 mm (4.4 in) across 16 days, followed by an even higher accumulation of 142 mm (5.6 in) in May, highlighting the peak of the rainy season.
As the wet season progresses into June, precipitation starts to decrease, with 53 mm (2.1 in) expected over 11 days, gradually tapering off in July and August, albeit still generating notable amounts of rainfall (78 mm and 94 mm, respectively). The onset of fall brings a decline in precipitation, with October receiving 80 mm (3.1 in) and November dropping to 33 mm (1.3 in). Finally, December closes the year with a return to minimal rainfall of 10 mm (0.4 in), demonstrating the cyclical nature of Harari's climate, where dry interludes are balanced by pronounced wet periods, essential for local agriculture and ecosystems.
In Harari, Ethiopia, sunshine duration demonstrates a marked seasonal trend, with an overall increase from the cooler winter months towards the warmer summer period. Starting the year with 281 hours of sunshine in January, there is a steady rise through February, reaching 314 hours. March sees this trend peak, recording an impressive 347 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. The warm transition into April maintains a high level of sunshine at 331 hours, while May experiences a slight increase to 342 hours, showing that the region enjoys plentiful sunlight even as it approaches the rainy season.
As the year progresses into the mid-year months, sunshine hours remain fairly stable, with June, July, and August consistently recording between 333 and 345 hours of sunlight. Interestingly, even during the rainy season, the sunshine duration does not dip drastically, indicating that despite occasional rainfall, sunlit days persist. The fall months of October through December showcase a consistent range close to that of the summer period, with October and December each registering 342 and 344 hours, respectively. Overall, the data suggests that Harari experiences an abundant supply of sunshine throughout the year, providing a vital resource for both the ecosystem and local agriculture.
In Harari, Ethiopia, the UV Index consistently indicates extended periods of extreme solar radiation exposure throughout the year, with values frequently peaking during the first half of the year. Starting at 13 in January, the index rapidly rises to an impressive 16 by March and April, signaling critical levels of UV radiation that necessitate precautionary measures for outdoor activities. Even as the rainy season approaches, values remain elevated, with May registering 15. This high UV index translates to a burn time of just 10 minutes, emphasizing the importance of sun protection for residents and visitors alike during these months.
As the year transitions into the latter half, the UV Index experiences slight fluctuations but remains largely in the extreme category, hovering around 15 in July through September and tapering slightly to 12 in October and November. December closes the year with a UV Index of 11, which is still classified as extreme. This consistent exposure highlights the necessity for vigilant sun safety practices in Harari, as even on overcast days, harmful UV rays can pose significant health risks. Through these patterns, it is clear that the region's high UV index underscores the need for adequate skin protection year-round.
UV Risk Categories
In Harari, Ethiopia, daylight duration exhibits a consistent pattern throughout the year, typically ranging between 11 to 12 hours per day. The year begins with 11 hours of daylight in both January and February, reflecting the region's relatively stable climatic conditions. As spring approaches in March, daylight increases to 12 hours and remains steady through the warmer months of April to September. This consistency in daylight hours allows for extended periods of sunlight, which is beneficial for agriculture and outdoor activities.
As the year transitions into the latter months, daylight duration begins to taper back to 11 hours in October, November, and December. This gradual return to shorter days signals the onset of the cooler season. Overall, the variation in daylight duration in Harari is relatively minimal, characterized by a stable range that reflects the region's equatorial location. This stability contributes to the area's unique ecological and agricultural dynamics, enabling a predictable pattern of growth and development throughout the year.
Harar, Ethiopia, experiences a temperate climate characterized by relatively mild temperatures year-round. January temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while the warmest months, April and May, see similar maximums around 30°C (86°F) but increased rainfall, contributing to a significant wet season from April to September. Precipitation peaks in May at 142 mm (5.6 in), contrasting with the dry January. Despite variations in rainfall, sunshine remains plentiful, with February recording the highest at 314 hours. For more details, visit Harar climate.
In conclusion, Harari, Ethiopia, presents a remarkable climatic profile characterized by consistent sunshine, high UV exposure, and stable daylight duration throughout the year. The pronounced seasonal patterns, including a distinct wet season with ample rainfall and ample sunlight, facilitate vibrant ecosystems and thriving agricultural practices. With extreme UV Index values persisting for much of the year, awareness and sun protection are vital for residents and visitors. Overall, Harari's climatic conditions exemplify the intricate balance between sunlight, temperature, and precipitation, which shapes the region's environment and contributes to its unique cultural and ecological landscape.