Damascus, the capital of Syria, is known for its distinctive weather patterns throughout the year. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
The hottest month is July, with temperatures averaging a high of 96°F and a low of 65°F. This makes for sweltering days and cooler evenings, perfect for those who enjoy sunny weather.
In contrast, the winter season in Damascus brings much cooler temperatures. From November 28 to March 8, the city experiences cooler weather with average daily highs below 61°F.
January stands out as the coldest month, with lows around 35°F and highs reaching 53°F. This period also features the most rainfall, making it a unique time to visit the usually arid city.
Damascus’s climate is also influenced by its subtropical desert climate, labeled BWh in climate classification. This results in notable variations in weather conditions across different seasons.
Whether planning a summer visit to enjoy the heat or exploring the cooler, wetter winter months, understanding the climate can help in making the most of your time in this historic city.
Average Temperature in Damascus, Syria
Damascus experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. The monthly averages highlight these variations clearly.
January is the coldest month, with an average low temperature of around 35°F and a high of 53°F.
In February, the temperatures slightly rise, with an average high of 57°F and a low of 37°F.
By March, the high temperatures reach 63°F, while lows are about 42°F.
April brings warmer weather, featuring highs around 72°F and lows near 47°F.
The heat increases in May, with highs averaging 81°F and lows about 53°F.
June sees a much warmer period, with highs at 91°F and lows at 61°F.
The hottest month, July, records average high temperatures of 96°F and lows of 65°F.
August maintains the heat with highs around 95°F and lows at 64°F.
In September, temperatures begin to cool, with highs averaging 88°F and lows 59°F.
October offers a much milder climate, averaging highs of 78°F and lows of 51°F.
By November, the weather cools significantly, with highs averaging 64°F and lows 41°F.
December is relatively cold, with average highs of 55°F and lows around 36°F.
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 53 | 35 |
| February | 57 | 37 |
| March | 63 | 42 |
| April | 72 | 47 |
| May | 81 | 53 |
| June | 91 | 61 |
| July | 96 | 65 |
| August | 95 | 64 |
| September | 88 | 59 |
| October | 78 | 51 |
| November | 64 | 41 |
| December | 55 | 36 |
Damascus experiences significant temperature shifts from hot summer days to cold winter nights, offering a diverse climate throughout the year.
Average Precipitation in Damascus, Syria
Damascus experiences varying amounts of precipitation throughout the year. The climate sees more rain in winter months while summers are quite dry.
Average Rainfall in Damascus, Syria
Rain is most frequent in Damascus during the winter months. January is known as the wettest month, with rainfall reaching about 1.1 inches over around 7 days. February and December also see higher precipitation levels, although still under an inch.
The city experiences its driest period from June to August. During this time, rainfall is almost non-existent, making it an arid season.
Annually, Damascus receives around 1.17 inches of precipitation, scattered across roughly 52 rainy days.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| January | 1.1 | 7 |
| February | 0.9 | 6 |
| March | 0.8 | 5 |
| April | 0.4 | 4 |
| May | 0.2 | 3 |
| June | 0.0 | 1 |
| July | 0.0 | 1 |
| August | 0.0 | 1 |
| September | 0.1 | 2 |
| October | 0.4 | 3 |
| November | 0.6 | 5 |
| December | 0.9 | 6 |
Average Snow in Damascus, Syria
Snowfall in Damascus is rare but not unheard of. The city’s subtropical desert climate makes significant snowfall uncommon.
When snow does fall, it usually occurs in the deepest winter months of December and January. The amount of snowfall is minimal and often melts quickly due to fluctuating temperatures.
Unlike its rainfall, regular snowfall isn’t an annual occurrence and may skip years altogether.
Snowy days typically bring only light snow, not heavy accumulation. The few days of snow can result in excitement for residents, but they do not significantly affect the yearly precipitation averages.
Average Sun in Damascus, Syria
Damascus enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year. The city experiences varying levels of solar energy daily, influenced by factors like daylight hours and cloud cover.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Damascus, Syria
The average daily shortwave solar energy received in Damascus changes with the seasons.
During the summer, the city gets increased sunlight, peaking in June and July. In the winter months, solar energy decreases, correlating with shorter days and longer nights.
| Month | Average Daily Solar Energy |
|---|---|
| January | 2.8 kWh/m² |
| February | 3.5 kWh/m² |
| March | 4.8 kWh/m² |
| April | 6.2 kWh/m² |
| May | 7.4 kWh/m² |
| June | 8.2 kWh/m² |
| July | 8.3 kWh/m² |
| August | 7.5 kWh/m² |
| September | 6.3 kWh/m² |
| October | 4.7 kWh/m² |
| November | 3.4 kWh/m² |
| December | 2.7 kWh/m² |
Average Humidity in Damascus, Syria
Damascus experiences varied humidity levels throughout the year.
January is the most humid month, with an average humidity of 75%. In contrast, the least humid month is June with an average of 41%.
The annual average humidity in Damascus is around 58%. These numbers indicate significant seasonal differences in the moisture content of the air.
Here’s a table summarizing the average monthly humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 75 |
| February | 70 |
| March | 65 |
| April | 55 |
| May | 45 |
| June | 41 |
| July | 43 |
| August | 45 |
| September | 50 |
| October | 55 |
| November | 65 |
| December | 70 |
Humidity in Damascus affects the dew point, which is the temperature at which air becomes saturated with moisture and can form dew.
During the humid months, the dew point is higher, meaning the air holds more water vapor, making it feel warmer and more tropical.
Conversely, during the less humid months, the dew point is lower, leading to drier air and cooler mornings.
The average humidity levels reflect the city’s semi-arid climate, where rainfall is sparse, and temperature fluctuations are common.
Understanding these variations can help residents and visitors prepare for different seasonal conditions in Damascus.
For more detailed climate data, you can refer to the World Weather & Climate Information.
Average Wind in Damascus, Syria
Damascus experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year. Wind patterns vary significantly based on the season.
Monthly Average Wind Speeds:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 6 |
| February | 6.5 |
| March | 7 |
| April | 6.8 |
| May | 5.5 |
| June | 5.2 |
| July | 5 |
| August | 5.1 |
| September | 5.3 |
| October | 5.5 |
| November | 5.8 |
| December | 6 |
The windiest month is March, with average wind speeds reaching 7 mph. In contrast, July and August have the lowest average wind speeds, around 5 mph.
Wind in Damascus primarily comes from the west and northwest directions, bringing cooler air during the summer months. This helps moderate the warm temperatures.
During the cooler months, the wind can feel quite chilly, especially in January and February.
The winds are crucial in shaping the city’s climate, impacting both temperature and air quality.
Average Air Quality in Damascus, Syria
Damascus, the capital city of Syria, experiences varying air quality levels throughout the year. The air quality is influenced by traffic, industrial activities, and weather patterns.
Monthly Air Quality Index (AQI) for Damascus
| Month | Average AQI |
|---|---|
| January | Moderate |
| February | Moderate |
| March | Moderate |
| April | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| May | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| June | Unhealthy |
| July | Unhealthy |
| August | Unhealthy |
| September | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| October | Moderate |
| November | Moderate |
| December | Moderate |
Notable Air Quality Facts
- Winter months (November to March) generally exhibit moderate air quality due to lower temperatures.
- Summer months (June to August) tend to have unhealthy air quality because of higher temperatures which increase pollutants.
Historical Data
Historical data indicates that the average yearly AQI in Damascus has been shifting. Increased urbanization and population growth have contributed to these changes.
Health Impacts
Poor air quality, especially in the summer months, can exacerbate respiratory conditions.
It’s crucial for residents and visitors to monitor the air quality index to make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
Weather and Pollution
Weather conditions such as wind and rain can alleviate or worsen air pollution. High pressure systems often trap pollutants close to the ground, increasing AQI levels.
Tips for Residents
- Using air purifiers can help maintain indoor air quality.
- Staying indoors during high AQI days is recommended, especially for sensitive individuals.
Monitoring the air quality forecast helps in planning safe and healthy activities. For more detailed and real-time information, refer to local air quality sources.
Topography of Damascus, Syria
Damascus is situated at an elevation of approximately 2272 feet above sea level. This elevation contributes to its varied climate and weather patterns.
The city’s coordinates are around 33.5138° N latitude and 36.2921° E longitude, placing it in a region with a subtropical desert climate.
Damascus is not located near any coastal areas. It is an inland city, which means it does not experience the moderating effects of the sea on its temperature.
The urban landscape of Damascus is a mix of modern architecture and historical sites.
The old city is characterized by narrow streets and ancient buildings, while newer parts of the city feature wider roads and more contemporary structures.
The terrain surrounding Damascus consists of rolling hills and valleys. These geographical features influence the local weather, often resulting in significant temperature variations between day and night.
Monthly Elevation Data:
| Month | Elevation (ft) |
|---|---|
| January | 2272 |
| February | 2272 |
| March | 2272 |
| April | 2272 |
| May | 2272 |
| June | 2272 |
| July | 2272 |
| August | 2272 |
| September | 2272 |
| October | 2272 |
| November | 2272 |
| December | 2272 |
This steady elevation contributes to the city’s distinct weather patterns year-round.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Damascus, Syria
Damascus experiences a range of extreme weather events throughout the year. The hot summer months often see temperatures soaring, while the cooler months can bring unexpected conditions.
High Temperatures
During the hot season, spanning from late May to late September, Damascus can experience extremely high temperatures. Here are some peak temperatures recorded:
| Month | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| July | 96 |
| August | 95 |
| June | 91 |
Sandstorms
Sandstorms are a common occurrence in Damascus, especially during the dry summer months. These storms can drastically reduce visibility and air quality, making daily life challenging.
Rainfall and Flooding
While Damascus is generally dry, winter months can bring rainfall, sometimes leading to localized flooding. November to March is when most of the rain occurs.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| December | 1.5 |
| January | 1.8 |
| February | 1.6 |
Winter Chill
From late November to early March, temperatures can drop significantly. Though snow is rare, cold winds make the city feel much cooler.
| Month | Lowest Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| January | 37 |
| February | 39 |
Best Time of the Year to Visit Damascus, Syria
The best time to visit Damascus, Syria depends on what you are looking for. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for exploring the city. Summer brings high heat, and winter has cooler, wetter weather.
What Is Damascus, Syria Like in Spring
Spring in Damascus spans from March to May. During this season, the temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 45°F to 75°F. This makes it an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Rainfall is minimal but can occur in early spring. Days start to get longer, giving you more time to explore historical sites and enjoy the local food.
Many travelers find spring to be the best time to visit because the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The city’s gardens also come alive with blooming flowers, making it a picturesque time for photography.
What Is Damascus, Syria Like in Summer
Summer in Damascus lasts from June to August. This season is characterized by very hot and dry weather, with temperatures frequently reaching 100°F.
These months are not recommended for those who are sensitive to heat.
However, the skies are usually clear, providing plenty of sunlight. If you plan to visit during this time, early mornings and late evenings are the best parts of the day for activities.
Hydration and sun protection are crucial during the summer months.
Be prepared for very little rainfall, as summer is the driest season in Damascus.
What Is Damascus, Syria Like in Fall
Fall in Damascus spans from September to November. This season offers another period of mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F.
Autumn is a good alternative to spring for visiting the city. The heat of summer dissipates, making outdoor activities comfortable again.
There is a slight increase in rainfall compared to summer, but it remains limited.
The evenings can be cooler, so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket.
Overall, fall provides a balanced climate suitable for walking tours and exploring cultural landmarks.
What Is Damascus, Syria Like in Winter
Winter in Damascus extends from December to February.
The weather is cold, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. It’s also the wettest season, especially in January.
Expect occasional rainfall and possibly some snow, mainly in higher-altitude areas.
Despite the cooler temperatures, winter can still be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind bundling up.
Many cultural venues and indoor attractions remain open, providing plenty of activities to enjoy.
Planning ahead and checking the weather forecast can help you make the most of your winter visit to Damascus.