Jordan Weather & Climate: A Year-Round Guide for Travelers

Jordan’s climate is a fascinating intersection of Mediterranean influences and arid desert landscapes. While approximately 80% of the country is classified as desert, its varied topography—ranging from the high-altitude Western Highlands to the sub-sea-level Jordan Valley—creates a tapestry of microclimates that behave quite differently throughout the year.

Typical Weather Patterns and Daily Behavior

Jordan generally experiences long, hot, and dry summers followed by short, cool, and variable winters.

• Day and Night Extremes: Regardless of the season, a hallmark of the Jordanian climate is the significant diurnal temperature variation. In the highlands and desert, temperatures can drop by as much as 15°C (27°F) as soon as the sun sets.
• Humidity: Most of the country enjoys very low humidity (often between 30-40%), which makes even high summer temperatures of 32°C (90°F) feel more manageable. However, the high-altitude regions like Amman and Petra can feel surprisingly biting in winter due to the combination of moisture and wind.

Seasonal Trends

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a brief but transformative season. The northwestern highlands turn vibrant green, and wildflowers, including the rare Black Iris, bloom across the landscape. Temperatures are mild (13°C–23°C), but this is also the primary season for the Khamsin.

Summer (June to August)

Summers are characterized by cloudless blue skies and relentless sunshine. While the highlands average around 32°C, the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea frequently soar above 40°C (104°F). Because the air is dry, shade provides immediate relief, but the sun is exceptionally intense at high altitudes.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn mirrors spring in temperature but feels "crisper." It is the transition back to the rainy season. Late October may bring short, localized rain showers that temporarily clear the summer dust and revitalize the parched earth.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is when Jordan surprises many visitors. It is the only time the country receives significant rainfall (about 75% of the annual total). Amman, situated on several hills, frequently sees frost and occasional snow. In contrast, the Dead Sea and Aqaba remain mild and pleasant, acting as traditional winter retreats for locals.

Regional Microclimates

• The Jordan Valley: Located 400 meters below sea level, this rift is a tropical anomaly. It is consistently 8°C to 10°C warmer than the highlands. In winter, it is a balmy oasis; in summer, it is an oven of heat.
• The Highlands (Amman, Petra, Ajloun): These areas catch the most rain and snow. The elevation causes temperatures to stay lower than the rest of the country, and the wind chill can be significant on exposed archaeological sites.
• The Badia (Eastern Desert): This region experiences the most extreme shifts. With virtually no vegetation to buffer the climate, summer days are searing, while winter nights can be brutally cold, often dipping below freezing.

Notable Weather Phenomena

• The Khamsin: This is a hot, dry, sand-laden wind that blows from the Arabian Peninsula, typically in spring and early summer. It can cause temperatures to spike 10°C in hours and turns the sky a hazy orange, significantly reducing visibility.
• Shamal Winds: Periodic northwesterly winds that can trigger dust storms, particularly in the eastern desert regions near the borders of Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
• Flash Floods: Following heavy winter rains, dry wadis (riverbeds) can become dangerous torrents within minutes. This is a critical seasonal hazard in areas like Petra and Wadi Rum.

Historical Context and Local Adaptation

Jordan is historically one of the most water-stressed nations on earth. Locals have adapted over millennia—from the Nabataeans’ intricate water-harvesting systems in Petra to modern farmers shift toward drought-resistant crops.

In daily life, the weather dictates the rhythm of the country. During the peak of summer, many locals adopt a "siesta" schedule, with businesses closing in the early afternoon and reopening late at night when the highland air becomes cool and pleasant for social gatherings.