Last updated: April 14, 2025
Lebanon's climate is characterized by a diverse range of temperatures and precipitation patterns, reflecting its varied topography. The country experiences extreme temperatures, with January lows reaching -16°C (4°F) in Baalbek-Hermel and soaring to highs of 41°C (107°F) in September in Nabatîyé. Monthly precipitation varies significantly, from a mere 1 mm (0.0 in) in July in Béqaa to a substantial 207 mm (8.2 in) in December in South Governorate. Humidity levels also fluctuate, averaging as low as 26% in August and peaking at 72% in December, particularly in Nabatîyé. This interplay of factors creates a unique mosaic of climatic conditions across Lebanon, influencing both its environment and daily life.
Lebanon's diverse geography gives rise to several distinct climate zones, primarily classified under the Köppen-Geiger system. Most regions, including Aakkâr, Beyrouth, Nabatîyé, and South Governorate, showcase a Csa climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Baalbek-Hermel and Béqaa regions present a blend of Csa and Csb climates, the latter featuring cooler summers and a more temperate annual cycle. North Lebanon, encompassing Liban-Nord and Mont-Liban, also exhibits both climate types, contributing to the rich biodiversity and agricultural potential of the country. This variability makes Lebanon's climate uniquely suited to a wide range of flora and fauna, as well as various agricultural practices.
Climate Zone | Description |
---|---|
Csa | Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
Csb | Warm-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
In Lebanon, temperatures exhibit a dramatic range throughout the year, showcasing the country's diverse climate. January begins with chilling lows of -16°C (4°F) in Baalbek-Hermel and peaks at a warm 25°C (77°F) in Mont-Liban. As winter lingers into February, the mercury rises slightly, yet still dips to -13°C (9°F) in Baalbek-Hermel. By March, temperatures start climbing, reaching a high of 31°C (89°F) in Mont-Liban. April sees a notable increase, with peaks soaring to 36°C (96°F) in Nabatîyé. The heat intensifies further in May, with maximums hitting a sweltering 40°C (105°F), followed by the summer months of June to August, which consistently showcase highs above 37°C (99°F). Notably, September maintains this warmth, peaking at 41°C (107°F) in Nabatîyé, while temperatures finally begin to cool in October. The cooler months of November and December bring averages down to 30°F, yet still allow for highs around 31°C (88°F) in Nabatîyé and 29°C (84°F) in Mont-Liban. Overall, Lebanon's climate offers a vivid contrast from the bitter cold of winter to the scorching heat of summer, creating a unique tapestry of seasonal temperatures.
Lebanon experiences significant variation in precipitation throughout the year, with a distinct contrast between the dry summer months and the wetter winter season. July marks the driest period, with only 1 mm of rain recorded in the Béqaa region and no rainfall at all in Nabatîyé, illustrating the region's seasonal dryness. In stark contrast, December emerges as the peak month for precipitation, showcasing a remarkable 207 mm of rainfall in the South Governorate. This monthly total is accompanied by up to 13 rainy days in Liban-Nord, highlighting the shift to a more humid and variable winter climate. These trends underscore Lebanon’s diverse climatic conditions, characterized by a pronounced seasonal disparity in precipitation patterns.
Lebanon experiences notable fluctuations in humidity throughout the year, with a marked contrast between the summer and winter months. In August, minimum humidity levels drop to a comfortable 26% in Nabatîyé, providing a welcome respite from the heat. However, as the year transitions into December, humidity reaches its peak at 72%, enveloping the region in a noticeably damp atmosphere. This trend highlights the seasonal shifts that characterize Lebanon's climate, where the dry, warm summer gives way to the cooler, moisture-laden winter months.
In Lebanon, June marks a significant increase in ultraviolet (UV) exposure across various regions, with trends showing an average daily maximum UV Index (UVI) of 11 in Beyrouth and even higher at 13 in Baalbek-Hermel. This notable rise highlights the country's position in a zone susceptible to intense solar radiation during the summer months. As such, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant, employing sun safety measures to mitigate the risks associated with these elevated UV levels. The data underscores the importance of awareness and precaution as the summer sun strengthens.
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In Lebanon, sunshine duration varies significantly across the seasons and regions. During January, Aakkâr and Nabatîyé enjoy a modest 219 and 223 hours of sunlight respectively, reflecting the cooler and shorter days typical of winter. However, as summer approaches, the sun shines more brightly and abundantly. For instance, in July, the South Governorate basks in an impressive 409 hours of sunshine, while Aakkâr surpasses even that, with a remarkable 418 hours. This stark contrast between winter and summer not only highlights the Mediterranean climate’s allure but also indicates the regions’ potential for outdoor activities and tourism during the sunny months.
In Lebanon, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly across the seasons and regions. For instance, Béqaa experiences a cooler December with only a 35% chance of sunny skies, reflecting the winter chill. In stark contrast, Aakkâr basks in abundant sunshine during July, boasting an impressive 95% probability of clear weather. This seasonal shift highlights the warm summer months as a prime time for outdoor activities, while winter brings a more subdued atmosphere, with less sunshine and cooler temperatures. Overall, the trend illustrates a clear preference for sun-seekers to plan their getaways in the sunny summer months of Lebanon.
In Lebanon, daylight hours vary significantly throughout the year, reflecting the country's temperate climate. In December, regions like Liban-Nord experience approximately 9 hours of sunlight, marking the shorter days of winter. Conversely, as the seasons shift to June, this figure nearly doubles in areas such as Aakkâr, where residents bask in about 14 hours of daylight. This notable increase highlights the stark contrast between Lebanon's winter and summer months, allowing for longer days filled with outdoor activities and a vibrant social life during the warmer seasons.
The climate in Aakkâr, Lebanon offers a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, making it an intriguing destination for climate enthusiasts. Winters can be quite chilly, with January lows dipping to -4°C (25°F), while summers shine with warm days averaging around 27°C (81°F) in July and August. The seasonal shift brings a mix of precipitation, peaking in December with 102 mm (4.0 in) of rain, and a notable decrease during the scorching summer months, where rainfall nearly halts. Humidity levels hover around 70% in winter, dropping to a comfortable 50% by mid-summer, providing a refreshing respite from the heat. For more detailed insights into the region's weather patterns, visit Aakkâr climate.
The climate in Baalbek-Hermel, Lebanon, offers a striking contrast between frigid winters and scorching summers. January temperatures can plunge as low as -16°C (4°F), while July and August see highs soaring up to 39°C (102°F). With precipitation peaking in the winter months, particularly January and March, the region experiences a mix of humidity that ranges from a damp 71% in the coldest months to a drier 38% during the summer. This dynamic weather contributes to a unique landscape and rich agricultural opportunities year-round. For more detailed information, visit the comprehensive guide on Baalbek-Hermel climate.
Beyrouth, Lebanon enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. From January to April, temperatures gradually rise from a chilly 2°C to a comfortable 29°C, making these months perfect for exploring the city's rich history. The summer months of July and August can be notably warm, with averages soaring to 27°C and 82% humidity, while the fall sees a lovely transition with pleasant temperatures around 23°C in October. Although the winter months experience the highest precipitation, particularly in December, with over 167 mm, the mild weather invites visitors to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. For a deeper dive into the seasons, check out the detailed Beyrouth climate.
The Béqaa Valley in Lebanon experiences a climate marked by distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be quite chilly, with temperatures dipping as low as -15°C (5°F) in January, accompanied by significant precipitation, particularly in the early months. As spring blooms, temperatures gradually rise, peaking at 30°C (87°F) in April, while rainfall begins to taper off. Summer ushers in heat, with July and August averaging around 36°C (98°F) and low humidity, creating a dry atmosphere perfect for outdoor activities. As fall arrives, temperatures cool down, leading to a picturesque landscape, especially in October, making it a delightful time to explore the beauty of the region. For more information, check out the full Béqaa climate.
In Liban-Nord, Lebanon, the climate showcases a striking contrast between seasons, with January temperatures dipping to a chilly -12°C (11°F), while the summer months soar up to a scorching 38°C (100°F) in September. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in winter, where January and December see 115 mm and 134 mm of precipitation, respectively. Humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, peaking at 71% in January and dipping to a comfortable 50% during the drier summer months of July and August. This dynamic climate makes Liban-Nord a fascinating destination for those who appreciate both winter sports and summer exploration. For detailed insights, explore the Liban-Nord climate.
Nestled in the heart of Lebanon, Mont-Liban experiences a diverse climate that varies drastically throughout the year. Winters can be quite chilly, with January temperatures dipping to a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and notable precipitation peaking at 133 mm (5.2 in), creating a serene snowy landscape. As spring unfolds, temperatures rise, reaching an average of 15°C (60°F) in April, while humidity drops, making the region more pleasant. Summer brings warmth, with July and August consistently hitting 37°C (99°F), yet the air is surprisingly dry. With such a variety of weather patterns, Mont-Liban offers a unique climate experience that promises to captivate visitors throughout the year. For more details, explore the Mont-Liban climate.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Lebanon, Nabatîyé boasts a diverse climate that dances between chilly winters and sweltering summers. January and February greet residents with temperatures as low as -13°C (9°F), gradually warming up to a sizzling 41°C (106°F) in August, showcasing the region's inviting seasonal contrasts. While winter brings significant precipitation, with 133 mm (5.2 in) in January, the summer months are notably dry, dipping to a mere 2 mm (0.1 in) in July. The decreasing humidity from 71% in January to as low as 26% in August further enhances the region's summer warmth, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Discover more about this fascinating climate in our detailed guide: Nabatîyé climate.
The climate in South Governorate, Lebanon showcases a fascinating blend of seasonal contrasts. Winters are marked by chilly temperatures, dipping as low as -3°C (27°F) in January, while summers soar to a sizzling 39°C (103°F) in May. Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with the heaviest showers in January (190 mm) and December (207 mm), tapering to mere drizzles in the warmer months. Moreover, the humidity shifts from a refreshing 71% in January to a drier 26% in August, creating an enjoyable atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. Discover more about the region's unique weather patterns at South Governorate climate.
Lebanon's climate showcases an impressive range of temperatures and rainfall, reflecting the diverse geography of the region. The winter chill can plunge to a minimum of -16°C (4°F) in January in Baalbek-Hermel, while summer heat peaks at a scorching 41°C (107°F) in September in Nabatîyé. Precipitation varies dramatically throughout the year, with a stark contrast between the minimum of just 1 mm (0.0 in) in the dry month of July in Béqaa and a remarkable maximum of 207 mm (8.2 in) in December in South Governorate. Humidity levels further illustrate this variability, dropping to an average minimum of 26% in the sweltering month of August in Nabatîyé, then soaring to an average maximum of 72% in the wet month of December in the same area. This interplay of temperature, precipitation, and humidity not only defines Lebanon's distinct climate zones but also significantly influences its biodiversity and living conditions throughout the year.