Last updated: January 18, 2025
Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, located in Morocco, showcases a Csa climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. This Mediterranean climate is characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. During the coldest month of January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -3°C (27°F), while the peak of summer in July can see extremes reaching up to 46°C (116°F). Despite these temperature fluctuations, the region maintains a comfortable annual average of 18°C (65°F), reflecting its diverse climatic conditions and significant seasonal variations.
Temperature patterns in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra exhibit distinct seasonal trends, transitioning from the cold of winter to the heat of summer. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures dipping to -3°C (27°F) and average highs around 25°C (78°F), gradually rising as spring approaches. By April, temperatures begin to warm significantly, with maximums soaring to 39°C (102°F), and this upward trend continues into May and June, where average temperatures reach 20°C (69°F) and 22°C (72°F), respectively. The peak summer month of July experiences the highest extremes, with temperatures soaring to a sweltering 46°C (116°F). As summer wanes into autumn, September through November sees a gradual cooling, with October showcasing average temperatures of 21°C (69°F) and maximums dropping to 40°C (103°F). By December, the cycle concludes with a return to winter temperatures, marked by averages of around 13°C (56°F), reflecting the region's significant seasonal temperature fluctuations.
Rabat experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, with January witnessing a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and August peaking at a maximum of 39°C (102°F). This variation reflects the Mediterranean climate typical of the region, making it essential for visitors to prepare accordingly for their trips. For more detailed information on the monthly temperatures in Rabat, check the link: monthly temperatures in Rabat.
Precipitation in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the winter and early spring months. January and February are among the wettest months, recording 60 mm (2.4 in) and 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, respectively, typically over 6 days of rainfall. March and April maintain this trend with 71 mm (2.8 in) each, contributing to a moist spring. As the region transitions into summer, precipitation sharply diminishes, with June receiving only 8 mm (0.3 in) and July and August virtually dry, recording just 1 mm (0.0 in) and 2 mm (0.1 in), respectively.
The onset of autumn brings a slight uptick in rainfall, with October experiencing 46 mm (1.8 in) and November seeing 68 mm (2.7 in). Despite a resurgence in precipitation, these months still reflect lower totals compared to the peak winter months. December concludes the year with 59 mm (2.3 in), ensuring a steady distribution of rainfall through the colder months. Overall, the climate of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra showcases a Mediterranean precipitation pattern characterized by significant winter rains and extended dry periods in summer.
In Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, sunshine duration shows a pronounced seasonal trend, with a steady increase in hours from winter to summer. January begins with 220 hours of sunshine, gradually rising through** February** to 266 hours. This upward trajectory continues into the spring months, where March sees 319 hours and April reaches 344 hours. By May, sunshine hours peak to 383, marking the onset of the hotter months. As summer arrives, June, July, and August each experience a remarkable amount of sunlight, with July achieving the highest total at 405 hours.
As the summer yields to autumn, sunshine hours start to decline. August still boasts 381 hours, but the fading intensity continues into September with 343 hours, and October records a further decrease at 323 hours. By November and December, sunshine hours drop to 280 and 271 hours, respectively, indicating a return to the shorter daylight hours typical of winter. This clear pattern of increasing sunlight during the warmer months and decreasing sunshine in the cooler periods highlights the region's Mediterranean climate, where residents can enjoy abundant sunlight, particularly in the heart of summer.
The UV Index in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra demonstrates significant seasonal variations, peaking during the late spring and summer months. Starting with a moderate UV Index of 4 in January and 5 in February, the region sees a notable increase as spring approaches. By March, the UV Index jumps to 8, categorized as very high, and it peaks in April with a UV Index of 10. May marks the onset of extreme UV conditions, reaching an index of 11. This trend continues through June, July, and August, where the UV Index remains at 11, highlighting the importance of sun protection during these months, as burn times drop to as little as 10 minutes.
As the summer heat dissipates into autumn, the UV Index decreases, with September featuring a UV Index of 10, classified as very high. The following months show further moderation; October has a UV Index of 7 at the high exposure level, while both November and December revert back to moderate levels of 5 and 4, respectively. This seasonal pattern emphasizes the necessity for residents and visitors to be vigilant about sun exposure, especially during the peak UV Index months of May to August, to reduce the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, beginning with approximately 10 hours of daylight in both January and February. As spring approaches, March experiences a slight increase to 11 hours, which is indicative of the gradual lengthening of days. This trend accelerates in April and May, where daylight extends to 13 hours, allowing residents to enjoy more time outdoors as temperatures begin to rise. June and July mark the peak of daylight with 14 hours each, providing plenty of sunlight during the warm summer months.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to wane. August sees a decrease back to 13 hours, followed by a reduction to 12 hours in September. October continues this downward trend with 11 hours, while November returns to 10 hours. By December, daylight hours decrease further to just 9 hours, highlighting the cycle of shorter days characteristic of winter. This distinct variation in daylight duration throughout the year underscores the region's Mediterranean climate, affecting both lifestyle and agricultural practices within the community.
Rabat, Morocco experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from 5°C to 22°C, while August sees maximums peaking at 39°C. Rainfall is most notable in the winter months, particularly in January and November, while summer remains quite dry. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from May to July, with daylight hours reaching over 400. For more detailed information, visit Rabat climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra is marked by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. The region experiences mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, with significant temperature fluctuations that pose both challenges and opportunities for the local populace. With abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, and a notably high UV Index, sun protection becomes vital during the hottest times of the year. Additionally, the gradual changes in daylight hours influence daily activities and agricultural cycles. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for residents and visitors alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region's unique environment and promoting proactive measures for health and sustainability.