Climate and monthly weather forecastRafha, Saudi Arabia

The climate of Rafha

Rafha, situated in Saudi Arabia, boasts a Koppen climate classification of BWh, which identifies it as a subtropical desert. One can expect a blend of ample sunshine, low rainfall, and generally high temperatures throughout the year. Covering the spectrum from 6.1°C (43°F) in winter periods to a maximum of 43.4°C (110.1°F) in the summer periods, there is a notable range in temperatures during the year.

Looking at humidity, Rafha experiences a progressive decrease from the start of the year with 64% in January, all the way down to 19% from July through to September, before slowly climbing back up as the year ends. The area typically sees minimum rainfall, with the most precipitation observed in March with rainfall registering at 20mm (0.79"). For most summer months, specifically, from June to September, Rafha experiences no rainfall.

Daylight hours fluctuate to a less significant degree, starting from 10.5 hours at the start of the year and climbing to a peak of 14 hours during the summer months of June and July. A slight decrease in daylight hours occurs as the year progresses from this peak.

Uniquely, Rafha experiences three distinct periods of no rainfall, these being June to September, indicative of the arid subtropical desert conditions.

The best time to visit Rafha

The most optimal time to visit Rafha would be during the spring season from February to April, which sees a moderate climate in contrast to the extreme temperatures experienced later in the year. During this time, temperatures range from 19.6°C (67.3°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F), paired with tolerable relative humidity between 43% and 54%. With daylight hours averaging around 11.2 hours in February and reaching 12 hours by April, there is ample time for sightseeing. Additionally, March experiences the highest rainfall of the year at 20mm (0.79"), providing a refreshing change from the otherwise arid climate.

The worst time to visit Rafha

Entering the summer season from June to August, Rafha sees extreme temperatures into the 40s°C, reaching a peak of 43.4°C (110.1°F) in August. In unison with the searing heat, the humidity levels drop significantly, reaching as low as 19%. The combination of sweltering heat and low relative humidity can make these months particularly uncomfortable for visiting. Moreover, rainfall is virtually absent during this period, depriving the weather of any relieving moments.

Spring weather in Rafha

During spring - between February to April - the weather in Rafha begins to transition from the cooler temperatures of winter to the intense heat of summer. Average highs move from 19.6°C (67.3°F) in February, through 24.6°C (76.3°F) in March, up to 31.1°C (88°F) in April. Correspondingly, the minimum temperatures also increase from 6°C (42.8°F) to 15.7°C (60.3°F). Rainfall is the highest in March at 20mm (0.79"), while February and April have lesser amounts of 9mm (0.35") and 12mm (0.47"), respectively.

Summer weather in Rafha

Rafha experiences extreme summer climate from May to August. Starting with maximum temperatures of 37.2°C (99°F) in May, it shoots up to an all-time high of 43.4°C (110.1°F) by August. This scorching heat is accompanied by the least humid conditions of the year, starting at 25% in May and reducing to 19% from July to September. Daylight hours peak at 14 hours in June and July before slightly reducing to 13.8 hours in August.

Autumn weather in Rafha

Autumn, spanning from September to November, brings a modest relief from the intense summer heat. The temperatures begin to decline from a high of 40.1°C (104.2°F) in September to a more moderate 24.8°C (76.6°F) by November. Minimum temperatures see a drop from 22.4°C (72.3°F) to 11.2°C (52.2°F). Relative humidity begins to rise in this period, reaching 49% in November. Daylight hours progressively decrease from an average of 12.3 hours in September to 10.7 hours in November.

Winter weather in Rafha

From December to January, Rafha experiences winter season when temperatures dip to their lowest point. The maximum temperatures range from 18.6°C (65.5°F) in December to 16.7°C (62.1°F) in January, and minimum temperatures from 6.1°C (43°F) to 4.3°C (39.7°F). While the temperatures are much more comfortable during these months, humidity rises significantly, approaching 64% in January. These months also see a reduction in daylight hours, with January having the fewest at 10.3 hours.

Weather in January

In comparison to December, Rafha's temperatures in January are quite similar. A noticeable drop in temperature to a high of 16.7°C (62.1°F) and a low of 4.3°C (39.7°F) reflects the winter season. The city experiences moderately dry conditions, neither extremely wet nor bone dry, making it ideal for outdoor winter activities. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Compared to January, February marks a distinct shift towards warmer temperatures in Rafha. The city starts to prepare for an arid atmosphere as temperature and daylight hours increase, indicating the nearing approach of Spring. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Rafha moves further into the year and away from February, March presents an even more intensified shift towards an arid climate. With daylight hours exceeding 12, it is evident that the city is transitioning from winter to summer. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April shows a stark contrast in weather when compared to March, as the relentless Arabian summer begins to set foot in Rafha. The city experiences sharp increases in temperature; however, the relatively cooler evenings provide a respite from the scorching daytime heat. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May shows more pronounced signs of summer than its predecessor April, and a further progression towards a typical arid desert climate. With 21.1°C (70°F) as the lowest temperature, nights start to become warmer in Rafha. The heat induces an arid atmosphere, amplified by steadily reducing rainfall rates. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June is distinguished by soaring temperatures, making it significantly hotter than May. The virtually non-existent rainfall renders Rafha's climate extremely dry. With a rise in temperature, people tend to stay indoors to avoid sun exposure during daylight hours which slightly exceeds 14 hours. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Rafha's weather in July continues the heat wave initiated in June. With an average low temperature of 25.1°C (77.2°F), nights provide little relief from the relentless heat. The ever-present dust-filled sky alleviates the intensity of the sun's rays, albeit slightly. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Rafha registers its highest temperatures for the year in August, with mercury spiking to 43.4°C (110.1°F). Even the shadow offers little solace from the intense heat. The perpetual sunny spell coupled with a noteworthy absence of rainfall shapes the extremeness of weather. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Post-August, September experiences a subtle reduction in temperature, marking the advent of the cooling phase in Rafha. After months of relentless sunshine, the city welcomes relatively tolerable weather conditions. The absence of rainfall persists, maintaining the aridness of Rafha's desert climate. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October witnesses a significant drop in temperature as compared to its predecessor, September. Cooler evenings make their return post sweltering summer months. With an appreciable amount of sunshine throughout the month, daylight hours remain ample despite their gradual reduction. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November sees a further decline in temperatures, signaling the approaching winter. The city sheds the last vestiges of the summer heat and welcomes cooler days and nights. An evident rise in humidity to 49% indicates that condensation is outpacing evaporation, causing an increase in moisture content in the atmosphere. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Rafha's weather in December reflects a complete transition into winter from the receding month of November. A significant drop in temperature to a high of 18.6°C (65.5°F) and a low of 6.1°C (43°F) is evidence of the wintry conditions. Weather in December »