Last updated: January 18, 2025
Madaba, Jordan, is characterized by a semi-arid climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as BSh (hot semi-arid) and BSk (cold semi-arid). This region experiences a dramatic temperature range, with January's minimum dipping to 0°C (33°F) and soaring to a blistering 43°C (110°F) in September. The average annual temperature hovers around a comfortable 21°C (70°F), offering a unique climatic experience that influences both the local ecosystem and human activities in this historic city.
In Madaba, Jordan, temperature patterns exhibit significant seasonal variation, reflecting both the transition from winter to summer and the influence of its semi-arid climate. Winter months (January to March) begin with cooler temperatures, ranging from minimums of 0°C (33°F) to 3°C (38°F), and average temperatures gradually rising from 11°C (52°F) in January to 15°C (59°F) by March. As spring arrives in April and May, temperatures escalate sharply, peaking at 41°C (105°F) in May, revealing a marked shift toward summer heat. Summer months (June to August) boast high maximums, reaching up to 43°C (110°F), while evening temperatures remain relatively mild, with minimums from 14°C (57°F) to 20°C (68°F). The arrival of autumn in September and October sees a gradual cooling, with average temperatures descending to 24°C (75°F) by October, before winter reestablishes itself with cooler conditions in November and December, characterized by minimum temperatures returning to around 3°C (37°F). This cyclical temperature trend underscores the distinct seasonal contrasts that define the climate of Madaba.
Madaba experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January's minimum dipping to 0°C (33°F) and September's maximum soaring to 43°C (110°F). This variation is indicative of the region's diverse climate, which can be further explored through the detailed data available at monthly temperatures in Madaba.
Precipitation in Madaba, Jordan, follows a distinct pattern, predominantly confined to the winter months. January, February, and March lead the way with the highest rainfall, receiving 37 mm (1.5 in), 36 mm (1.4 in), and 34 mm (1.4 in) respectively. These months collectively account for the majority of the annual precipitation, with rainfall occurring over six days in January and February, and slightly less in March. As spring approaches in April, a significant decrease is noted, with rainfall dropping to 14 mm (0.5 in) over two days, followed by a minimal 5 mm (0.2 in) in May.
The summer months (June to September) are characterized by virtually non-existent rainfall, with no measurable precipitation recorded during July, August, and September. This dry spell is representative of the semi-arid climate that dominates the region, leading to an annual total that remains relatively low. Rainfall sees a minor resurgence as autumn arrives, yielding 4 mm (0.1 in) in October and 10 mm (0.4 in) in November, before tapering off again to 21 mm (0.8 in) in December, from which the cycle begins anew. Overall, the precipitation pattern highlights a climate that is starkly divided between a wet winter and a prolonged dry season.
In Madaba, Jordan, sunshine duration reflects a marked seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing as winter transitions into summer. January starts off with 231 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 277 hours in February, and then sharply climbing through March and April, where it reaches 334 hours and 354 hours, respectively. By May, the city enjoys 390 hours, setting the stage for the sunniest months of the year. The peak sunshine is recorded during the height of summer in July, with 406 hours of bright daylight, closely followed by August at 388 hours. This consistent increase from the winter months showcases Madaba’s shift toward a sunnier, warmer climate as the year progresses.
As summer wanes into autumn, sunshine hours begin to decline, albeit gradually. September still boasts an admirable 348 hours of sunshine, yet this figure descends to 322 hours in October and 288 hours in November. The descent continues into December, with 282 hours highlighting that while the days are shorter, Madaba still retains a substantial amount of sunlight in these cooler months. Overall, the yearly sunshine pattern illustrates a robust Mediterranean climate, characterized by prolonged sunny summer days, which contrasts sharply with the shorter, milder winter months, ultimately shaping the region's pastoral beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
The UV Index in Madaba, Jordan, reveals significant seasonal variations that highlight the need for sun safety awareness throughout the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index stands at 4, indicating a moderate level of exposure, with a burn time of approximately 30 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. As the months progress into February and March, the UV Index rises to 6 (high) and 8 (very high), respectively, prompting a reduction in safe sun exposure to 25 minutes and 15 minutes. This upward trend continues with peak values occurring in late spring and early summer, where the UV Index escalates to 11 in May and 12 in June, categorized as extreme, suggesting a mere 10 minutes of safe sun exposure.
As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index begins to decline but remains notably high. July sees an index of 11 before dropping to 10 in August and 9 in September, all reflecting extreme to very high exposure levels with a burn time of only 10 to 15 minutes. By October, the UV intensity stabilizes at 8 (very high), followed by a return to moderate levels in November and December, with indices of 5 and 4, respectively. This seasonal analysis emphasizes the extreme UV conditions in the summer months, underscoring the necessity for precautionary measures to protect against sunburn and long-term skin damage during these peak periods.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Madaba, Jordan, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with hours of sunlight gradually increasing as winter gives way to spring and summer. In January, the city experiences only 10 hours of daylight, which extends to 11 hours in February and remains constant through March. The arrival of spring in April brings a slight increase to 12 hours, and by May, daylight reaches 13 hours, setting the stage for the longest days of the year. In June, residents benefit from a peak of 14 hours of daylight, making it a prime time for outdoor activities and exploration.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to decrease, indicative of the changing seasons. July and August maintain a steady 13 hours of daylight, but as September rolls in, there is a noticeable decline to 12 hours. The fall months see further reduction, with 11 hours of sunlight in October and a return to 10 hours in both November and December. This cyclical daylight pattern underscores the Mediterranean climate of Madaba, contributing to its rich seasonal diversity while providing residents and visitors ample opportunity to enjoy its scenic landscapes throughout the sunniest months.
Madaba, Jordan experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C to a maximum of 24°C, while August is the hottest month, peaking at 43°C. Rainfall is most frequent from January to March, with January recording 42 mm, tapering to almost none by mid-summer. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in July, which boasts 406 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Madaba climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Madaba, Jordan, showcases distinctive seasonal variations that shape the region's environmental characteristics and human activities. With a semi-arid climate marked by hot summers, mild winters, and limited precipitation, residents experience a pronounced difference between sunlit seasons and cooler months. The sunshine duration peaking in the summer months, combined with a high UV index during this period, underscores the importance of sun safety measures. As daylight lengthens from winter to summer, it fosters vibrant outdoor lifestyles while influencing the local ecology. This climatic framework not only enriches Madaba's natural beauty but also enhances its appeal as a destination for sustainable tourism and cultural exploration throughout the year.