Palermo Weather & Climate Guide: Year-Round Expectations

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is defined by its classic Mediterranean climate (Csa). Nestled between the mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city experiences a weather pattern characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city's geography—specifically the plain of the Conca d'Oro—shapes how the air moves and settles throughout the day.

Daily Rhythms

In the summer, the day begins with a soft, humid stillness that quickly burns off as the sun rises. By mid-morning, a predictable sea breeze, known as the Brezza di Mare, typically sets in, providing a cooling effect for those near the port and coastal areas. This breeze peaks in the afternoon but fades at sunset, often leading to "muggy" (sticky) evenings when the humidity rises. In winter, mornings are crisp but rarely freezing, with clear skies often providing significant warmth until the sun dips behind the mountains in the late afternoon.

Seasonal Trends

• Spring (March – May): This is the season of transition. Temperatures climb from 15°C (59°F) in March to a pleasant 23°C (73°F) by May. It is the greenest time of year, though it remains prone to sudden, short-lived spring showers.
• Summer (June – August): Hot and intensely sunny. Daily highs average 29°C–31°C (84°F–88°F), but heatwaves can push temperatures above 38°C (100°F). July is the driest month, often seeing zero rainfall.
• Autumn (September – November): September remains summer-like, but October introduces the "wet season." Rainfall increases significantly, yet the air remains warm, averaging 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F). November is historically one of the wettest months.
• Winter (December – February): Mild and variable. Daytime highs rarely drop below 13°C (55°F). Snow is an extreme rarity in the city center, though it is often visible on the surrounding peaks of the Madonie mountains.

The Scirocco Phenomenon

One of Palermo's most dramatic weather events is the Sirocco, a powerful, hot wind originating in the Sahara Desert. When the Sirocco blows—most commonly in spring and autumn—temperatures can spike by 10°C in a matter of hours. The sky often turns a hazy, yellowish-orange due to fine African dust suspended in the air. This wind feels like a giant hair dryer; it is intensely dehydrating and can make the city feel much hotter than the thermometer suggests.

Local Adaptations & Experience

Locals have a symbiotic relationship with the sun. During peak summer, the city adopts a quiet "siesta" culture; streets empty between 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM as residents retreat to thick-walled stone buildings that naturally regulate temperature. You will notice that many streets in the old center are narrow and winding—a historical design choice to ensure constant shade at street level.

Microclimates and Variations

There is a notable difference between the "seaside" and the "inland" experience. Areas like Mondello and the Foro Italico enjoy the cooling influence of the sea, while districts further inland or elevated toward Monreale can be several degrees cooler in winter and significantly more humid in summer due to the lack of airflow. Travelers should also note that while the city is warm, the sea temperature remains chilly until late June, finally peaking at a balmy 27°C (80°F) in August.