Climate and monthly weather forecast
Syria

Syria is located in the Eastern Mediterranean, characterized by diverse geography. The country boasts coastal plains in the west, vast deserts in the south and east, as well as mountain ranges in the northwest. Its climate reflects these geographical features, with a broad categorization into a Tropical and Subtropical Steppe Climate or "BSk" according to the Köppen climate classification. Syria's climate is, therefore, semi-arid, typified by inadequate precipitation levels that hover between 50% to 100% of the threshold for arid climates. Its position in the middle latitudes creates a cooler annual average temperature, falling below 18°C (64.4°F). Despite the overall semi-arid conditions, regional variations do occur. Coastal areas experience a more Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The interior and eastern regions, however, tend towards harsh extremes due to their desert environment.

Owing to its hot and arid conditions during summer and cold winters, the best time to visit Syria is during the spring and autumn seasons. Specifically, the months from April to June and September to November offer pleasant temperatures and low chances of precipitation. The average temperature during these periods fluctuates between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), allowing for comfortable exploration of the country's historic sites and natural landscapes. It is also an ideal period for engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking in the coastal mountains or visiting the sprawling desert regions.

The summer and winter months in Syria can be quite challenging for visitors. July and August are particularly harsh, with temperatures soaring beyond 40°C (104°F) in the interior and eastern regions. In addition to the extreme heat, dust storms are a common occurrence, which can significantly impair visibility and affect respiratory health. Conversely, winter months, particularly January and February, can be bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F) in certain regions. Snowfall is common in the mountainous areas, which can lead to road closures and travel disruptions.

Spring in Syria, spanning from March to May, brings mild and comfortable weather. Average temperatures hover between 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. While the country remains generally dry, light showers may occur, mainly in the western and coastal areas. Spring also signals the bloom of Syria's diverse flora, adding vibrant colors to the country's landscape. However, the season also sees occasional dust storms, especially in desert regions.

Syria's summer, from June to August, is characterized by extreme heat and aridity. In the interior and eastern regions, temperatures can rise above 40°C (104°F), while coastal areas remain relatively cooler, with averages from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is almost non-existent during this season, exacerbating the arid conditions. Dust storms are frequent during these months, affecting air quality and visibility. Despite the heat, summer nights in the desert regions can be quite cool due to rapid heat loss.

Autumn, lasting from September to November, mirrors spring in its relatively moderate temperatures and low rainfall. The average temperature ranges between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities. The chance of rainfall increases as the season progresses, particularly in the coastal regions. The desert regions remain dry, though cooler temperatures make them more accessible than during the summer months.

Winter in Syria spans December to February and is characterized by cold temperatures, particularly in the higher elevations. Coastal regions experiencemilder winters with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F), while the interior and eastern regions can see temperatures drop below 0°C (32°F). Snowfall is common in the mountainous regions and can occasionally blanket the desert landscapes, creating a unique, albeit brief, winter wonderland. Rainfall increases during these months, especially along the coast, while the rest of the country remains relatively dry. Despite the chill, winter days often offer clear, crisp skies, adding a stark beauty to the Syrian landscape.

January is the coldest month of the year in Syria. During this month, the country experiences significant variations in climate due to its diverse topography. In the coastal regions, such as Latakia and Tartus, the Mediterranean influence brings relatively mild temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F). Weather in January »

In Syria, February remains a part of the winter season, though it sees slight increases in temperatures compared to January. Along the coastal cities like Latakia and Tartus, February weather remains mild and rainy. Weather in February »

March signifies the advent of spring in Syria and is characterized by a gradual rise in temperatures across the country, indicating a shift away from the colder winter months. In coastal cities such as Latakia and Tartus, the Mediterranean influence brings moderate temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in March »

April marks the full onset of spring in Syria, characterized by warmer temperatures and decreasing rainfall across the nation. Coastal regions such as Latakia and Tartus experience a true Mediterranean spring in April. Weather in April »

May in Syria signals the end of spring and the beginning of the long, hot summer season. Across the country, temperatures continue to rise, and precipitation becomes increasingly infrequent. In coastal cities such as Latakia and Tartus, May brings warm and mostly dry conditions. Weather in May »

June signifies the full onset of the summer season in Syria. The weather is typically hot and dry throughout the country, with very minimal to no precipitation. In the coastal regions, cities such as Latakia and Tartus experience a Mediterranean summer, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in June »

July is the peak of the summer season in Syria, characterized by intensely hot temperatures and almost non-existent rainfall across the entire country. The coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus, being moderated by the Mediterranean Sea, experience somewhat milder conditions compared to the rest of the country. Weather in July »

August in Syria continues the peak summer season with high temperatures and virtually no rainfall across the country. In the coastal cities of Latakia and Tartus, August experiences temperatures similar to those of July, ranging from 28°C (82.4°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Weather in August »

September marks the beginning of the transition from summer to autumn in Syria. Though the country remains hot, a noticeable decrease in temperatures can be observed, particularly in the inland and northeastern regions. In the coastal regions such as Latakia and Tartus, September temperatures are mildly warm, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in September »

October in Syria indicates the arrival of autumn. The country experiences a further decrease in temperatures and a gradual increase in precipitation, especially in the coastal and inland regions. The coastal cities of Latakia and Tartus witness a marked transition from the summer season, with temperatures averaging between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F). Weather in October »

November in Syria signals a deepening of the autumn season. The country continues to cool down with further reductions in temperature and an increase in rainfall, particularly in the coastal and inland regions. Coastal cities like Latakia and Tartus experience cooler temperatures, averaging between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in November »

December ushers in the winter season in Syria, with a further decrease in temperature and an increase in precipitation, particularly in the coastal and inland areas. In the coastal regions, cities such as Latakia and Tartus experience a Mediterranean winter, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Weather in December »