Jordan's Weather
A Month by Month Guide
June, July and August are usually rainless and daily temperatures can reach 40°C and above, especially when the Sirocco (a hot, dry southerly wind) blows. At times, these winds can be very strong and can cause sandstorms.
In July, Jordan receives 13.1 hours of sunshine per day on average. Summers can be intensely hot in the Jordan Valley, the area around Aqaba and the Eastern Desert.
Winters in Jordan are generally short and cool. January is the coolest month, with temperatures of 5-10°C. 70 percent of the average rainfall in the country falls during this period.
Amman can be especially cold in January and February and snow is not uncommon. However, during these months the Jordan Valley and the area around Aqaba are reasonably warm during the day, with chilly evenings. Winter in the Eastern Desert, however, can be bitterly cold and dry. The central spine of hills can receive snowfall during winter months.
Spring starts in March, when wildflowers emerge, valleys are green and temperatures stay in their teens.
For diving in Aqaba, the best time is September, October and early November, when water is a warm 26°C, plus marine life is abundant during this time including eagle rays and turtles.
With around 90 percent of Jordan covered by desert, summers are scorching. However, always be aware of cold nights – Wadi Rum's sands plummet to 4°C in winter. The north-west is hilly and lush, and bags most of the country's annual rainfall, especially in January. For cooler temperatures in the high teens, the best time to visit Jordan is March-May. Amman reaches a comfortable 32°C between June and September, while nights can drop below freezing from December to February. The beaches of Aqaba and the salty Dead Sea touch 40°C in July.
