Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region in Morocco is characterized by a diverse array of temperature variations and distinct Köppen-Geiger climate classifications, including Csa (Mediterranean with dry summer), BSk (Steppe) and BSh (Tropical Steppe). The region experiences extreme fluctuations, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -17°C (1°F) in January and soaring to a scorching 47°C (117°F) in July. The annual average temperature of 17°C (63°F) reflects the area's overall climatic diversity, offering a unique blend of both temperate and arid influences that shape its environmental landscape.
In Béni Mellal-Khénifra, Morocco, temperature patterns exhibit significant seasonal variation, marked by a stark contrast between the cold winter months and the scorching summer. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures hovering around -17°C (1°F) and -11°C (13°F), respectively, while average temperatures gradually rise from 7°C (46°F) to 10°C (51°F). As spring approaches, temperatures begin to climb, peaking in May with an average of 19°C (67°F) and a maximum of 42°C (108°F). This warming trend continues into the sweltering summer months of July and August, where maximum temperatures reach a blistering 47°C (117°F). As autumn sets in, a noticeable drop occurs, with average temperatures declining through September and October, culminating in colder conditions by December, where the minimum dips again to -12°C (11°F). This dynamic climate presents a unique tapestry of temperature fluctuations that define the region throughout the year.
Ifrane experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January recording a chilling minimum of -12°C (11°F) and August peaking at a warm 32°C (89°F). This significant variation makes Ifrane a unique destination in Morocco, ideal for both winter sports and summer activities. For more detailed information on the climate, visit monthly temperatures in Ifrane.
Precipitation in Béni Mellal-Khénifra follows a distinct seasonal pattern, with the wettest months occurring primarily in the early spring. January and February both receive approximately 43 mm (1.7 in) of rainfall, marking the onset of the wetter season. As spring progresses, March sees a significant increase to 71 mm (2.8 in), followed by April, which records the highest precipitation of the year at 77 mm (3.0 in). This peak in rainfall contributes to the region’s lush landscapes and supports agricultural activities, with rainfall spread over an increasing number of days as winter transitions to spring.
As the summer months approach, a marked decrease in precipitation becomes apparent, with June and July experiencing the lowest amounts at just 13 mm (0.5 in) and 10 mm (0.4 in) respectively. August sees a slight increase to 22 mm (0.9 in), while September and October continue the downward trend with 28 mm (1.1 in) and 35 mm (1.4 in), respectively. Overall, the rainfall pattern highlights a dry summer season, offering a stark contrast to the wetter winter and spring months, and reflects the region's varied climate influences throughout the year.
In Béni Mellal-Khénifra, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal progression, characterized by a steady increase from the winter months to the peak of summer. January starts off with 233 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 280 hours in February and reaching 328 hours in March. As spring unfolds, April sees a further increase to 347 hours, culminating in May with an impressive 378 hours of bright sunshine. This ascending trend highlights the region's transition from cooler, cloudier winter days toward the warmer and sunnier conditions of late spring.
Summer marks the zenith of sunshine hours, with July boasting a record 393 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. As temperatures soar and the days lengthen, August maintains high sunshine levels at 370 hours, followed by a gradual decrease in September to 341 hours. The fall months bring a drop in sunlight, with October providing 326 hours, tapering off to 291 hours in November and 292 hours in December. This seasonal pattern underscores the region's appeal for sun-seekers, particularly during the long, sunlit summer months, while also reflecting the unique climatic characteristics that define Béni Mellal-Khénifra throughout the year.
The UV Index in Béni Mellal-Khénifra showcases significant seasonal fluctuations, with levels reflecting the intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. Starting in January with a UV Index of 5, categorized as moderate, residents have a burn time of approximately 30 minutes under direct sunlight. As winter transitions into spring, February sees an increase to 7, moving into the high exposure category with a burn time of 25 minutes. By March, the UV Index spikes to a remarkable 11, indicating extreme conditions, and this level persists throughout April and into early summer, necessitating caution during outdoor activities.
The peak intensity of UV radiation occurs in June, where the UV Index reaches a critical level of 14, along with a consistent rating of 12 during both July and August. This extreme exposure demands vigilant sun protection measures, as the burn time is reduced to just 10 minutes across these months. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually declines to 9 in October but remains very high, then shifts to lower levels of 6 in November and 5 in December, transitioning back to moderate exposure. This variation emphasizes the need for awareness regarding sun safety and appropriate precautions during the sunniest and most intense seasons in Béni Mellal-Khénifra.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Béni Mellal-Khénifra reveals a distinct annual cycle, peaking during the summer months and diminishing during winter. January begins with just 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 11 hours in both February and March as spring approaches. The transition to longer days becomes more pronounced in April, with daylight extending to 12 hours, and further increases to 13 hours in May. As June arrives, the region experiences its maximum daylight duration of 14 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and sun exposure.
As summer wanes, daylight hours begin to recede. July maintains the peak of 14 hours before tapering off to 13 hours in August. The subsequent months see a gradual decrease, with daylight returning to 12 hours in September, 11 hours in October, and finally settling back to 10 hours in both November and December. This cyclical pattern not only dictates the rhythm of daily life in the region but also enhances the experience of seasonal changes, offering varying opportunities for both recreation and reflection throughout the year.
Ifrane, Morocco experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (11°F) while averaging around 2°C (36°F), and temperatures gradually rise to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in July and August. Precipitation peaks in spring, notably in March and April, with average monthly totals of 72 mm (2.8 in) and 81 mm (3.2 in), respectively. Ifrane enjoys ample sunshine, particularly from May to July, boasting over 380 hours of sun each month. For more details, visit Ifrane climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Béni Mellal-Khénifra, Morocco, is characterized by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences a remarkable transformation throughout the year, from cold winter months with limited sunlight to scorching summers filled with intense UV radiation and extended daylight. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for both residents and visitors, as they influence lifestyle choices, agricultural practices, and outdoor activities. As global climate patterns continue to evolve, appreciating the unique weather dynamics of Béni Mellal-Khénifra becomes increasingly important for sustainable living and responsible environmental stewardship in this vibrant part of Morocco.