Climate and monthly weather forecast
Petra, Jordan

Nestled in the southern part of Jordan, Petra enjoys a Subtropical desert climate, also classified as BWh by the Köppen-Geiger system. This climate characterization is dominated by hot temperatures and scarce rainfall, with a pronounced shift between summer and winter temperatures. The temperature highs surge to a sweltering 33°C (91.4°F) during the peak of summer, typically recorded from July to August, and then decline to a much milder 13°C (55.4°F) in the chillier periods of winter in January. The range for the lower temperatures varies from 2°C (35.6°F) to 17°C (62.6°F), with the lowest usually recorded in January and the highest from July to September.

Under this dry climate, Petra experiences minimal rainfall throughout the year, with no measurable precipitation from June to September. The highest amount of rainfall is expected to fall in January and February with 17mm (0.67") each, tapering off slowly towards the drier months. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days is also maximum at the start of the year, with five days in January and four each in February and March, falling to zero by June.

Regarding daylight hours, the longest days occur in the heart of summer with a maximum average of 14.1 hours in June and the shortest days are in the depths of winter with 10.2 hours on average in December. The average sunshine hours, meanwhile, follow a similar trend with peak levels from June to August, averaging around 13 hours, and dropping to a low of 7 hours in the cooler months of January and December. The UV index is highest at 12 from June to July, indicating a need for extra protection if venturing outdoors during these months.

The best time to visit Petra depends greatly on what one values in a vacation. However, considering the overall climatological parameters, the period between April and June may provide the most favorable conditions. The highs during this period hover from 19°C (66.2°F) to 32°C (89.6°F) while lows range from 6°C (42.8°F) to 16°C (60.8°F), offering a rather comfortable climate for many outdoor activities. Rainfall is practically absent during these months, with precipitations levels dropping from 7mm (0.28") in April to none at all in June. Sunshine hours peak at 13, providing ample bright hours for sightseeing.

The period from June to August might be the least inviting time to visit Petra. During these months, the subtropical desert climate becomes highly pronounced, with a high average temperature reaching a scorching 33°C (91.4°F). Coupled with high UV index of 12, these conditions can lead to discomfort and require travelers to take extra precautions to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.

Springtime in Petra occurs from March to May, bringing moderately high temperatures and ample sunshine hours. Highs averagely range from 19°C (66.2°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), and lows from 6°C (42.8°F) to 13°C (55.4°F). The spring months also mark the ending of the wet season, with rainfall levels reducing from 15mm (0.59") in March to a mere 3mm (0.12") by May. As the season progresses, Days also slow extend from an average of 12 hours in March to 13.7 hours in May.

From June to August, Petra experiences the harshness of the subtropical desert climate. High temperatures consistently reach 33°C (91.4°F), and lows do not drop below 16°C (60.8°F). Rainfall does not occur during this period in Petra, leaving the city bone-dry, while daylight hours peak at 14.1 in June. Sunshine hours also reach their highest levels at an average of 13, offering mostly clear skies throughout this period.

Autumn spans from September to November, with temperatures beginning to cool from the summer's highs. High temperatures start at 31°C (87.8°F) in September, declining to a cooler 20°C (68°F) by November, with lows dropping from 16°C (60.8°F) to 8°C (46.4°F) over the same period. No rainfall typically occurs in September but returns slowly with 4mm (0.16") by October and 7mm (0.28") in November. Daylight hours also begin to reduce from 12.3 hours in September to 10.6 hours by November.

Winter in Petra, from December through February, is characterized by milder temperatures and increased rainfall. The highest temperatures descent from 15°C (59°F) in December to 13°C (55.4°F) in January, before climbing back to 15°C (59°F) in February. The lowest temperatures during this period follow a near-identical pattern, averaging between 2°C (35.6°F) to 4°C (39.2°F). The months of January and February see the highest rainfall of the year at 17mm (0.67") each with maximum rainy days. Daylight hours are at their least in winter with an average of 10.4 hours in December, increasing slightly to 11.1 hours by February.

January in Petra, Jordan, offers relatively mild winter conditions. The month presents the year's coldest temperatures, falling between 2°C (35.6°F) and 13°C (55.4°F). It's an optimal time for those who prefer cooler travel explorations. Weather in January »

As Petra transitions from January to February, a slightly warmer ambiance starts to envelop the city. Relief from intense cold is notable with the mercury shifting upwards. However, rainfall remains consistent with January, persisting at 17mm (0.67") over the course of four days. Weather in February »

March signifies the onset of spring in Petra, characterized by a notable rise in temperatures. The weather begins to lean towards warmth with a low of 6°C (42.8°F) and a high reaching 19°C (66.2°F). The arrival of spring adorns the city with blossoms, painting the historic ruins in vibrant colors. Weather in March »

April brings a marked change in Petra’s climate with the advent of pleasant warmth. The marvels of the city can be explored comfortably under the gently warming sun. Rainfall retreats dramatically to 7mm (0.28"), making it one of the drier months of the year. Weather in April »

Come May, the city of Petra wholeheartedly embraces the summer, characterized by a significant leap in temperatures. The mercury in thermometers readily displays digits from 13°C (55.4°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), indicative of the substantial warmth settling in. Weather in May »

June in Petra expresses the full power of the summer sun. Climatic conditions tilt towards intense warmth, but the city's ancient structures provide relieving shaded spots. Absolute absence of rainfall marks this month, making way for uninterrupted outdoor exploration. Weather in June »

July boasts of being the hottest month in Petra, Jordan with temperature parameters lying between 17°C (62.6°F) and 33°C (91.4°F). As desert heat engulfs the city, it becomes a testament to travellers' resilience. Despite the intense heat, the absolute lack of rainfall ensures bright, blue skies throughout the month. Weather in July »

With August arrives a slight reprieve from the July heat, though it still remains intense. Petra, bathed in the glory of the sun, becomes a palette of mesmerizing golden hues. Rainfall continues its hiatus, maintaining the aridity of the previous month. Weather in August »

September signals a gradual farewell to the height of summer in Petra. The intensity of the heat recedes to a more manageable level, making exploration more comfortable. This transition month offers an excellent opportunity to experience Petra without the peak summer heat. Weather in September »

October in Petra marks the onset of autumn, characterized by pleasant, cooling temperatures. The transition towards the end of the year becomes evident, paving the way for more manageable exploration conditions. Annual rainfall begins its increasing trend, however, this month only sees a modest 4mm (0.16") precipitation. Weather in October »

As Petra walks into November, the autumn chill further solidifies, becoming more noticeable. Walking through the city's winding paths underneath the vibrant fall foliage provides an unmatched experience. Rainfall rises to 7mm (0.28"), introducing more variation into the climatic narrative of Petra. Weather in November »

Petra welcomes December with a brisk drop in temperatures, indicating the arrival of winter. The climate becomes cooler, endorsing the year-end festivities in the city. Rainfall peaks to 16mm (0.63"), signalling the arrival of the rainy season. Weather in December »