Climate & Weather Guide · JordanClimate & Weather Guide in Jordan
Climate zones, seasonal temperatures, rainfall patterns, and best travel times
Jordan features a predominantly warm Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, transitioning to arid desert conditions in the east and south. Rainfall is concentrated between November and April, with northern highlands receiving up to 500mm annually, while eastern deserts get less than 120mm. Temperatures vary by elevation and proximity to the Mediterranean influence: summers often exceed 35°C in lowlands, winters average 13°C with occasional frost or snow in highlands. The Jordan Valley experiences a unique microclimate with higher humidity and milder winters. Sunshine is abundant year-round, averaging over 2800 hours, making it appealing for expats seeking sunny weather, though water scarcity and summer heat require adaptation for comfortable living.
Summer Average
25-38°C
Winter Average
5-15°C
Climate Types
Mediterranean and Hot semi-arid and Hot desert
100-500 mm
2,800-3,200 hours annually
40-65%
Regional Climate Variations
Northern Highlands
The northern highlands around Ajloun and Irbid enjoy Jordan's most temperate climate, classified as hot semi-arid (BSh) with Mediterranean influences. Winters are cool with average highs of 12-15°C and lows near 5°C, bringing 400-500mm of rain and occasional snow. Summers are warm, peaking at 30-33°C during July-August, with low humidity. This region offers the greenest landscapes and mildest conditions, ideal for expats preferring cooler summers and reliable rainfall for agriculture.
Mild and refreshing with seasonal rains greening the hills, though chilly winter nights call for heating.
Amman Plateau
Central Jordan's plateau, home to Amman, has a warm Mediterranean climate (Csa) with elevation moderating extremes. Summers are hot and dry, averaging 28-32°C, while winters are mild at 8-13°C with 200-300mm rainfall and rare snow. Frost occurs in elevated areas. The urban setting amplifies summer heat but provides comfortable spring and autumn seasons, making it suitable for residents with access to air conditioning.
Balanced urban climate with sunny days and crisp winters, perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
Jordan Valley
This lowland rift zone features a hot semi-arid to desert climate, warmer than highlands due to low elevation. Summers soar to 35-40°C with high humidity near the Jordan River, while winters stay mild at 15-20°C daytime with lows around 10°C and up to 300mm rain in the north. The Dead Sea end is drier and hotter, attracting visitors for its unique low-altitude warmth.
Tropical-like heat in summer with humid breezes, mild winters ideal for farming and outdoor pursuits.
Eastern Desert
Vast eastern expanses including Badia region embody hot desert (BWh) climate with extreme aridity. Annual rainfall below 120mm supports sparse steppe vegetation. Summers exceed 38°C with scorching days and warm nights, winters mild at 10-18°C. Dust storms are common, and the barren landscape demands resilience from residents.
Intensely dry and hot, with relentless sunshine suited to those embracing nomadic desert lifestyles.
Southern Desert
Petra and Wadi Rum areas feature hyper-arid hot desert (BWh) conditions, among the driest globally. Rainfall under 100mm concentrates in rare winter events. Daytime summer highs reach 40°C+, cooling minimally at night; winters average 12-20°C. Dramatic rocky terrains amplify temperature swings, appealing to adventure seekers.
Stark, arid beauty with extreme heat by day and chilly nights, transformative for resilient expats.
Jordan's climate spans Mediterranean highlands to scorching deserts, offering sunny abundance but demanding heat tolerance and water conservation. Expats thrive in northern and central regions with milder conditions, while southern adventures suit the bold. Overall, its dry warmth and winter rains create a vibrant, resilient living environment.
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