Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lebanon

Located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, Lebanon possesses an interesting topography. It comprises a narrow coastal plain to the west, with two parallel mountain ranges running from north to south—the Lebanon Mountains to the west and the Anti-Lebanon Mountains to the east, with the fertile Bekaa Valley sandwiched in between. The Mediterranean exerts a strong influence on Lebanon's climate, resulting in a predominantly Mediterranean climate, featuring hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Temperatures vary significantly between the coast and the mountains. The coastal areas have an average temperature of 18°C (64.4°F) in winter and 30°C (86°F) in summer. As one ascends the mountains, temperatures decline, averaging from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F) in winter and from 18°C (64.4°F) to 28°C (82.4°F) in summer. In the mountains, snowfall is common and can last from December to April. The Bekaa Valley, shielded by mountains on either side, has a semi-arid climate with slightly more extreme temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) in winter to 40°C (104°F) in summer.

The optimal time to visit Lebanon depends largely on the intended activities. For those drawn to Lebanon's beautiful coastline and beaches, the period from June to September offers the warmest weather with average coastal temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). However, it is worth noting that humidity is high during this period.

If visiting the mountains for hiking or sightseeing, the best time would be in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). These periods provide comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and the opportunity to experience Lebanon's vibrant flora and fauna.

Visiting Lebanon during the winter months (December to February) can be challenging, particularly in the mountainous regions. Heavy snowfall makes many mountain roads impassable, and temperatures drop to freezing, making outdoor activities quite uncomfortable. The coast remains milder during this period, with temperatures averaging 18°C (64.4°F), but the frequent rain showers can dampen outdoor activities.

Additionally, the height of summer (July and August) can also be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to high heat and humidity, particularly in the Bekaa Valley where temperatures can soar up to 40°C (104°F).

In Lebanon, spring unfolds from March to May, bringing with it a burst of colour as the countryside blossoms with wildflowers. During this period, temperatures on the coast range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), while in the mountains, they vary from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Rainfall decreases significantly from April onwards, marking the end of the wet season. It is a great time to explore Lebanon's numerous nature trails, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages.

Summer in Lebanon, lasting from June to August, is characterized by hot, dry conditions. Coastal regions experience temperatures from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), along with high humidity, while the mountains offer some relief with temperatures between 18°C (64.4°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). In the Bekaa Valley, temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F). Rainfall is quite rare during these months, and the landscape turns a golden hue as vegetation dries out.

Autumn, spanning September to November, is another ideal time to visit Lebanon. The heat of the summer subsides, and temperatures across the country range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall gradually increases as the season progresses, especially in November, signaling the beginning of the wet season. Autumn colors paint the landscape, offering beautiful views especially in the mountains.

Winter in Lebanon stretches from December to February. The coastal region experiences cool temperatures, averaging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), with frequent rain showers. The mountains and the Bekaa Valley experience cold temperatures, often dipping below freezing point. Snow is common in the mountains, creating opportunities for winter sports like skiing. However, the snow also poses challenges for transportation, with many mountain roads becoming inaccessible.

January is the coldest month in Lebanon, and it falls in the heart of the winter season. During this month, the climate exhibits significant variation across the country due to its diverse topography. In the coastal cities such as Beirut and Tyre, temperatures in January average between 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Weather in January »

February in Lebanon is still part of the winter season, though it tends to be slightly warmer than January. Variations in climate across the different regions of the country persist. Coastal cities such as Beirut and Sidon experience moderate temperatures with February averages ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 16°C (60.8°F). Weather in February »

March signals the onset of spring in Lebanon. The country experiences a noticeable shift in weather as temperatures rise and the last remnants of winter snow begin to melt. In coastal cities such as Tripoli and Batroun, March brings warmer temperatures ranging from 13°C (55.4°F) to 18°C (64.4°F). Weather in March »

April in Lebanon is characterized by the full arrival of spring, with warmer temperatures and decreasing rainfall across the country. On the coast, cities like Beirut and Byblos experience a further rise in temperature, averaging between 15°C (59°F) and 21°C (69.8°F). Weather in April »

May in Lebanon sees the spring season giving way to early summer, with temperatures continuing to climb and rainfall dwindling. In coastal cities such as Sidon and Tyre, average temperatures in May range from 18°C (64.4°F) to 24°C (75.2°F). Weather in May »

June in Lebanon signals the official arrival of summer, characterized by hot temperatures and extremely low rainfall. Coastal cities such as Tripoli and Batroun experience rising temperatures, with June averages ranging from 22°C (71.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in June »

July is one of the hottest months in Lebanon, marking the peak of summer with high temperatures and virtually no rainfall throughout the country. Coastal cities, including Beirut and Tyre, face temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in July »

August in Lebanon is the hottest month of the year, with high temperatures sustained across the country and negligible rainfall. Coastal cities such as Sidon and Byblos face high temperatures in August, averaging between 25°C (77°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). Weather in August »

September in Lebanon marks the transition from the hot summer months to the milder autumn season, with temperatures beginning to decrease and the occasional return of rainfall. Coastal cities such as Beirut and Tyre experience temperatures between 22°C (71.6°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in September »

October in Lebanon ushers in the full onset of autumn. Temperatures continue to drop, and rainfall increases, bringing a noticeable change in the weather after the hot, dry summer months. In coastal cities such as Sidon and Tripoli, October temperatures fluctuate between 18°C (64.4°F) and 25°C (77°F). Weather in October »

November in Lebanon sees a deepening of the autumn season, with falling temperatures and increased rainfall leading up to the start of winter. In coastal cities such as Beirut and Batroun, average temperatures during November range from 14°C (57.2°F) to 20°C (68°F). Weather in November »

December in Lebanon marks the beginning of the winter season. Temperatures continue to drop, rainfall increases, and snowfall becomes common in higher elevations. Coastal cities such as Sidon and Tyre experience average temperatures ranging from 11°C (51.8°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). Weather in December »