Last updated: January 18, 2025
Béqaa, Lebanon, exhibits a temperate Mediterranean climate categorized under the Köppen-Geiger climate classes Csa and Csb. With minimum temperatures plunging to -15°C (5°F) in January, the region experiences a stark seasonal contrast. The average annual temperature hovers around a mild 15°C (60°F), while the peak warmth is reached in July, soaring to a sweltering maximum of 37°C (99°F). This climatic diversity contributes to the region's rich agricultural heritage and its unique ecological landscapes.
Béqaa, Lebanon, experiences a striking temperature pattern characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The winter months of January and February witness cold conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping as low as -15°C (5°F) and averages lingering around 5°C (41°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, featuring daily highs that reach up to 30°C (87°F) by late April. The transition into summer brings significant warmth, with July boasting maximum temperatures peaking at 37°C (99°F). Although August maintains similar heat, a slight cooling trend occurs by September. The onset of autumn sees further temperature drops, with averages decreasing to around 18°C (65°F) in October and 12°C (54°F) in November, before winter reasserts itself in December. This seasonal temperate climate not only influences the local lifestyle but also fosters diverse agricultural practices throughout the year.
In the Beqaa region of Lebanon, Joubb Jannine experiences a January minimum temperature of -15°C (5°F) and peaks at 36°C (97°F) in September, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Joubb Jannine. Meanwhile, both Aanjar and Zahle share similar temperature profiles, with minimums dipping to -15°C (5°F) in January and maximums reaching 37°C (99°F) in July, as indicated in the monthly temperatures in Aanjar and monthly temperatures in Zahle.
Béqaa, Lebanon, experiences a pronounced seasonal precipitation pattern, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the winter months. January leads the wettest period, receiving an average of 106 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 11 days, followed closely by December with 95 mm (3.8 in) across 12 days. February and March maintain this trend with precipitation levels of 83 mm (3.3 in) and 89 mm (3.5 in), respectively, each accompanied by consistent rainy days. As spring ushers in May, rainfall diminishes sharply to 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 4 days, indicating a shift towards drier conditions.
During the summer months, rainfall drastically declines, with June, July, and August seeing minimal precipitation, registering only 5 mm (0.2 in) and virtually no measurable rainfall in July and August. This dry spell extends into early autumn, where September records a mere 3 mm (0.1 in). However, October marks a resurgence of rainfall with 26 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days, followed by November, which receives 40 mm (1.6 in) and 8 rainy days, setting the stage for the wetter winter season that follows. This cyclical pattern of moisture not only defines the climate of Béqaa but also significantly supports its agriculture and ecosystems.
Béqaa, Lebanon, experiences a notable fluctuation in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a clear upward trend from winter into summer. In January, the region enjoys 223 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases to 274 hours in February and further to 333 hours in March. The transition into spring brings longer days, with April averaging 354 hours and May reaching 398 hours. This gradual accumulation of sunlight sets the stage for the summer months, where sunshine peaks remarkably in July, delivering 414 hours. Although August sees a slight decrease to 391 hours, it remains one of the sunniest months, indicating a consistent presence of bright, warm weather during this period.
As the summer gives way to autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 349 hours and October further declining to 322 hours. The drop continues through November and December, with 283 hours and 270 hours, respectively. This seasonal variation underscores the stark contrast between the sun-drenched summer and the comparatively shorter, cloudier days of winter. Overall, Béqaa's sunshine patterns not only enhance the region's agricultural viability but also contribute significantly to its stunning landscapes and local climate, making it a delightful destination year-round.
The UV Index in Béqaa, Lebanon, displays a pronounced seasonal trend, reflecting a marked increase in solar intensity from winter to summer. In January, the UV Index registers at 5, indicating moderate exposure levels where a burn can occur within approximately 30 minutes. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, February sees a jump to 6, categorized as high, with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The spring months intensify these values further, peaking in March and April at 9 and 10, classified as very high and necessitating vigilance with only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure before risks of sunburn increase significantly.
The summer months reveal the most extreme UV conditions, with May reaching a striking UV Index of 11, followed by June peaking at 13. Both months fall into the extreme exposure category, necessitating protective measures for even brief periods outdoors, as unprotected skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes. Although July and August continue to exhibit extreme levels with UV Index values of 12 and 11, respectively, a slight decline occurs in September and October, where values drop to 10 and 8. By November and December, the UV Index returns to moderate levels of 5 and 4, allowing for a more gradual return to safer sun exposure conditions as winter approaches. This notable fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety measures throughout the year, particularly during the higher indices of late spring and summer.
UV Risk Categories
In Béqaa, Lebanon, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the progression from winter to summer and back again. During the winter months, January and February each enjoy about 10 hours of daylight, providing brief opportunities for outdoor activities. As spring approaches, March witnesses a gradual increase to 11 hours of daylight, which further extends to 13 hours in April and May. This surge of daylight signifies a shift towards longer days, promoting not only enhanced agriculture but also a vibrant outdoor lifestyle as temperatures rise.
The transition into summer brings the longest days of the year, with both June and July boasting 14 hours of daylight. This extended exposure to sunlight supports the region’s agricultural demands and encourages outdoor pursuits. However, as summer wanes and autumn begins, daylight hours begin to gradually decline, with August returning to 13 hours and September diminishing to 12 hours. October continues this downward trend with 11 hours, and the year concludes with fewer daylight hours, descending to 10 hours in November and just 9 hours by December. This cyclic pattern of daylight duration emphasizes the importance of sunlight in shaping the local climate and lifestyle in Béqaa throughout the year.
The climate in Aanjar, Lebanon, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -15°C to 20°C, with significant precipitation of 89 mm, while July experiences much warmer conditions with highs reaching 37°C and virtually no rain. Spring transitions into summer with increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall, with May averaging 19°C and only 19 mm of precipitation. Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in July with 415 hours. For more detailed information, visit Aanjar climate.
Joubb Jannine, Lebanon experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -15°C (5°F) and reach up to 22°C (71°F), while July peaks at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is concentrated in the winter months, with January seeing the highest rainfall at 121 mm (4.7 in), while summer months remain nearly dry. This region enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July boasting 412 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Joubb Jannine climate.
The climate in Rachaiya el Ouadi, Lebanon, features a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January lows at -13°C (9°F) and highs reaching 36°C (98°F) in July and August. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly January (124 mm) and December (117 mm), while summer is considerably drier, with nearly negligible rainfall in July and August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 412 hours and averaging around 273 hours annually. For more details, visit Rachaiya el Ouadi climate.
Zahle, Lebanon experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January often sees temperatures ranging from -15°C to 20°C and significant precipitation of 89 mm, while July and August feature high averages between 24°C and 37°C with minimal rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 415 hours, contributing to warm, dry summer months. For more detailed climate information, visit Zahle climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Béqaa, Lebanon, is characterized by significant seasonal variations that play a crucial role in shaping its ecological and agricultural landscape. With marked differences in temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV index, and daylight duration throughout the year, residents and visitors alike can appreciate the dynamic nature of this region. The long, sun-drenched days of summer contrast sharply with the cooler, shorter days of winter, while variable precipitation patterns support the rich biodiversity and agricultural practices unique to the Béqaa Valley. Understanding these climatic patterns not only enhances awareness of environmental dynamics but also informs effective planning for agriculture, tourism, and outdoor activities, ensuring that the vibrancy of Béqaa's climate is embraced and preserved for generations to come.