Last updated: April 14, 2025
Jordan experiences a diverse climate, with stark contrasts between its arid desert and fertile highlands. In Mafraq, winter temperatures can plunge to a chilly -6°C (22°F) in January, while summer months see soaring highs of 46°C (115°F) in July. Precipitation varies significantly across the region, with Aqaba recording virtually no rainfall in July, contrasting sharply with Irbid, where February can bring as much as 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain. Humidity also fluctuates, reaching a low of 19% in August in Ma’an and peaking at 72% in December in Ajlun. This climatic diversity not only shapes the natural landscape but also influences the agricultural practices and daily lives of the Jordanian people.
Jordan's diverse climate zones reflect its varied geography, ranging from the cooler highlands to the warm desert regions. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification highlights this diversity: Ajlun boasts a mix of BSk and Csa climates, while Amman experiences BSk and BSh conditions. Moving south, Aqaba features a hot desert climate (BWh), contrasting with the milder BSk and BSh found in Balqa and Madaba. The northern regions like Irbid and Jerash enjoy a temperate BSk climate, whereas Karak exhibits a range of conditions including BSk, BWk, and BSh. Mafraq and Ma’an present a blend of BSk, BWk, and BWh climates, highlighting their unique climatic patterns. The central highlands, exemplified by Tafielah, maintain a consistent BSk climate, while Zarqa presents a combination of BSk and BWh, showcasing Jordan's rich climatic tapestry through its various regions.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BSk | Cold semi-arid climate with low rainfall and significant temperature variation. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWk | Cold desert climate with low rainfall and cold temperatures. |
| Csa | Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
Jordan experiences a striking temperature range throughout the year, with winter months witnessing notable lows. In January, temperatures dip to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) in Mafraq, while soaring to a warm 26°C (80°F) in Karak. As winter transitions to spring, February and March witness rising temperatures, peaking at a sizzling 37°C (99°F) in March. By April and May, the region truly heats up, with maximum temperatures reaching an impressive 41°C (105°F) in Karak and 44°C (111°F) in Karak respectively. The summer months of June and July maintain this intensity, with July hitting a sweltering maximum of 46°C (115°F) in Mafraq. Although August and September remain hot, a slight dip occurs with maximums just below 45°C (114°F) in Balqa. Autumn brings cooler nights and lower highs, as October shows minimums at 5°C (42°F) in Mafraq and declines further into November and December, where temperatures return to their winter roots. The year’s end offers a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F) in Ma’an while the highs hover around 32°C (90°F) in Karak, showcasing Jordan's diverse climatic range.
Jordan's precipitation patterns exhibit notable seasonal contrasts, with rainfall peaking in winter and virtually disappearing during the summer months. In February, the northern city of Irbid can receive as much as 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, contributing to its lush, green landscapes during cooler months. Conversely, the southern port city of Aqaba experiences a stark dry spell, recording no rainfall at all in July, along with 0 days of precipitation in June. January emerges as the month with the highest frequency of rain, with Irbid averaging up to 9 rainy days. This stark contrast between the wet winters and dry summers underscores the diverse climatic conditions across the country.
Jordan experiences significant fluctuations in humidity throughout the year, with levels ranging from a low of 19% in August in Ma’an to a high of 72% in December in Ajlun. This variation highlights the distinct seasonal contrasts in the region; as summer descends, the air becomes markedly drier, creating a stark environment, while the winter months bring increased moisture, particularly in elevated areas like Ajlun. Such trends play a crucial role in shaping the local climate and influencing everything from agriculture to daily life in Jordan.
In June, the UV Index (UVI) in Jordan showcases a significant intensity, particularly evident in the regions of Ajlun and Tafielah. The average daily maximum UVI reaches 12 in Ajlun and slightly rises to 13 in Tafielah, indicating a trend of increasing UV exposure as one moves through these areas. This spike in UVI underscores the importance of sun protection measures, especially during the summer months, as residents and visitors are likely to encounter heightened risks from sun exposure. As the climate continues to evolve, these figures highlight a crucial aspect of outdoor safety in Jordan.
UV Risk Categories
Jordan experiences a notable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a marked distinction between winter and summer months. In January, Irbid enjoys 224 hours of sunshine, while the coastal city of Aqaba basks in slightly more at 238 hours, making it a popular winter getaway. As summer rolls in, the skies brighten significantly, particularly in Aqaba, which shines with an impressive 401 hours in July. Meanwhile, Mafraq surpasses this with 409 hours, showcasing the sun’s dominance during the warm months. This trend highlights Jordan's appeal as a sun-soaked destination, especially for those seeking summer adventures.
In Jordan, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly throughout the year and across different regions. For instance, December in Irbid sees a moderate 43% chance of sunshine, reflecting the cooler, cloudier winter months. In sharp contrast, July in Tafielah boasts an impressive 99% probability of clear skies, showcasing the intense heat and arid conditions typical of summer. This stark difference highlights a clear trend: while northern areas like Irbid experience occasional winter cloud cover, southern regions such as Tafielah bask in nearly constant sunshine during the peak summer season.
In Jordan, particularly in Irbid, daylight hours exhibit a notable seasonal variation that reflects the shift from winter to summer. In December, residents can expect around 10 hours of daylight, a cozy span that encourages indoor activities and holiday gatherings. As the year progresses, daylight stretches significantly, reaching a vibrant 14 hours by June. This increase in sunlight not only enhances outdoor festivities but also fosters a lively atmosphere as people embrace the longer, sunnier days. Such trends illustrate how the changing seasons in Irbid shape both daily life and cultural practices.
Ajlun, Jordan, experiences a temperate climate with noticeable seasonal changes, showcasing crisp winters and hot summers. During the height of summer, August can reach max temperatures of 43°C (110°F), while winters chill with lows dropping to -1°C (30°F) in January. The area receives moderate rainfall, primarily between late fall and early spring, with January and February being the wettest months. As humidity fluctuates throughout the year, residents can feel the dry heat in the summer, particularly from June to September, when humidity can drop to as low as 26%. For a more comprehensive look at the climate nuances, visit Ajlun climate.
Amman, Jordan, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and hot summers. January and February see chilly temperatures, often dipping as low as -3°C (27°F) at night, while averages gradually rise into the comfortable range of 11°C (51°F) by February. As spring approaches in March, the weather becomes more pleasant, with highs reaching 32°C (90°F). The summer months of July and August can be particularly sweltering, presenting maximum temperatures soaring to 44°C (111°F), alongside low humidity levels. While rainfall is minimal from June through September, the cooler months bring periodic showers, adding a refreshing touch to Amman's dry Mediterranean climate. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Amman climate.
Aqaba, Jordan, boasts a warm desert climate that invites visitors year-round. January and February bring cooler temperatures, with averages hovering around 11°C to 13°C (53°F to 56°F), while the summer months of July and August reach scorching highs of 42°C (108°F) and 40°C (104°F), respectively. The area experiences minimal rainfall, particularly from June to September when the skies are mostly clear, allowing for plenty of sunshine. Humidity levels remain relatively low, peaking in the winter months but dropping significantly by summer. With such favorable conditions, it’s no wonder Aqaba is a favorite destination for both relaxation and adventure—explore more about the region's climate at Aqaba climate.
Nestled in the heart of Jordan, Balqa experiences a dynamic climate that transitions dramatically throughout the year. Winters are relatively cool, with temperatures dipping to -1°C (30°F) in January, while the summer months can see sweltering highs of up to 45°C (113°F) in August. Precipitation is most prevalent in the winter, peaking in January with 51 mm (2.0 in), before tapering off to almost negligible amounts during the arid summer months. Humidity levels also fluctuate, dipping to a dry 21% in August, creating a distinct contrast to the moisture-rich January, which boasts a humidity level of 64%. This diverse climate makes Balqa a fascinating place to experience the full spectrum of seasonal changes—discover more about the details in the full article on Balqa climate.
Irbid, Jordan, features a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be chilly, with January temperatures plummeting to as low as -3°C (27°F), while summers heat up dramatically, often exceeding 44°C (112°F) in August. Rainfall peaks in the winter months, with January and February both receiving around 57 mm (2.2 in), but tapers off significantly by late spring and into the scorching summer. Humidity levels also fluctuate, reaching a high of 71% in January and dropping to a dry 26% in August, creating a unique blend that locals experience throughout the year. For a deeper look into the climate dynamics of Irbid, explore Irbid climate.
Nestled in northern Jordan, Jerash experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with hot summers and mild winters. January brings chilly nights as temperatures can dip to a brisk -3°C (28°F), while the average daily highs reach a pleasant 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). As spring unfolds in April, the weather warms up considerably, with daytime averages soaring to 39°C (102°F) in May and August's peak temperatures hitting a sizzling 43°C (110°F). The region sees minimal rainfall during the summer months, making it an ideal time for exploration, while the cooler and wetter months from November to March enhance its lush beauty. For more detailed information on this fascinating climate, check out Jerash climate.
Karak, Jordan, experiences a unique climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January kicks off the year with chilly temperatures, dipping to -4°C (26°F) at night, while July and August sizzle under the heat, reaching up to 44°C (111°F). With minimal precipitation in the summer months and humidity levels plummeting to around 20%, the region enjoys dry, sun-blazed days perfect for exploration. Conversely, the cooler months see a slight increase in rain, peaking in January with about 23 mm (0.9 in). For a detailed overview, explore the Karak climate.
Madaba, Jordan, boasts a temperate climate that varies dramatically throughout the year. Winters are mild, with January temperatures dipping to 0°C (33°F) and averaging around 11°C (52°F), while summers can be sweltering, often reaching highs of 43°C (110°F) in August. The dry season from June to September sees little to no precipitation, while the wet months from January to April bring the most rain, making the landscape vibrant and lush. With relatively low humidity, especially in the summer, Madaba's climate is perfect for those seeking warmth without feeling overwhelmed. For more details, visit Madaba climate.
Mafraq, Jordan, experiences a vibrant climate characterized by distinct seasonal shifts. Winters are chilly with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) in January, while summers bring scorching heat, peaking at a sizzling 46°C (115°F) in July. Rainfall is scarce, especially during the hot months, with July and August seeing virtually no precipitation. Humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, notably dropping to 25% in the summer, creating a dry but warm atmosphere. For more on the intricate details of the weather patterns, explore the Mafraq climate.
The climate in Ma’an, Jordan showcases a striking contrast between chilly winters and scorching summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a brisk -5°C (24°F) to a comfortable 25°C (76°F), while July can soar as high as 43°C (110°F). As the year progresses, rainfall diminishes significantly, with nearly no precipitation during the sweltering months of July through September. Humidity is also at its lowest during this time, creating a dry heat that characterizes the region. For those intrigued by the unique climate patterns of this desert locale, detailed information can be found at Ma’an climate.
Tafielah, Jordan, experiences a climate characterized by a striking temperature range throughout the year. January features chilly temperatures with lows around -5°C (24°F), while by July, the mercury can soar up to a sweltering 42°C (107°F). This region sees most of its modest rainfall from January to March, with precipitation dwindling to nearly zero in the summer months. Humidity levels oscillate, reaching a high of 66% in December before dropping significantly in the hotter months of July and August. For a deeper look into the climate specifics of Tafielah, check out Tafielah climate.
Zarqa, Jordan experiences a diverse climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January kicks off the year with average temperatures around 8°C (47°F), while July peaks with scorching highs of 45°C (114°F). As the months progress from January’s chilly humidity of 63% to the dry heat of July, which dips to 25%, visitors will find that the region transitions dramatically. Precipitation is minimal in the summer, with no rainfall in July and August, giving way to brief showers in the cooler months. For those intrigued by seasonal changes and weather patterns, detailed insights can be found at Zarqa climate.
The climate of Jordan showcases a striking range, with temperatures plunging to a frigid -6°C (22°F) in January in Mafraq and soaring to a blistering 46°C (115°F) in July, indicating a stark contrast between summer and winter. Precipitation also exhibits variability; while Aqaba sees the driest conditions in July with no rainfall, Irbid experiences its wettest month in February, receiving up to 57 mm (2.2 in). Humidity levels fluctuate considerably throughout the year as well, with a low of 19% in August in Ma’an and peaks of 72% in the chillier December air of Ajlun. This diverse climate mosaic not only influences the natural landscape but also shapes the lifestyle and activities of Jordan's inhabitants, making it a fascinating study of environmental contrasts.