Beirut, Lebanon – Climate and Average Weather Year Round: Comprehensive Guide

Beirut, Lebanon enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

The hottest month of the year in Beirut is August, with an average high of 86°F and low of 78°F. This makes it perfect for summer activities along the stunning coastline.

Winters in Beirut are quite mild compared to other northern hemisphere locales.

January is the coldest month, with average highs around 63°F and lows near 53°F.

The rainy season typically spans from December to March, contributing to the lush greenery surrounding the city.

Visitors looking for the best time to experience Beirut’s climate might aim for the months of May and June.

These months strike a balance with warm temperatures and less rainfall, offering ideal conditions for outdoor exploration.

The table below provides a closer look at the average monthly weather in Beirut:

Average Temperature In Beirut, Lebanon

The climate of Beirut, Lebanon, varies throughout the year with notable changes in temperature.

The hottest month of the year is August. During this month, temperatures average around 86°F for the high and 78°F for the low.

In contrast, the coldest month is January, with an average low of 53°F and a high of 63°F.

Monthly Temperature Averages

The annual weather averages for Beirut show a mean temperature of around 71°F throughout the year.

Seasonal variations are evident, with winter being very mild and wetter compared to the dry and hot summer months.

Based on climatological data, temperature fluctuation in Beirut can be quite pronounced, especially when the wind blows from the desert.

For example, temperatures can sometimes reach or exceed 95°F from April to October.

These monthly averages help in understanding the weather by month and planning visits during the most mild and comfortable periods.

Average Precipitation In Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon experiences varying amounts of precipitation throughout the year. Rainfall is more common in certain months, while snowfall is practically non-existent.

Average Rainfall In Beirut, Lebanon

Rainfall in Beirut varies by month, with winter months seeing the most precipitation.

The wettest month is January, averaging about 5.8 inches of rain.

In contrast, the driest months are June, July, and August, which typically see no measurable rain.

A typical year sees around 28.5 inches of rain, most of it falling between November and March.

During these months, it is common to experience several rainy days. The table below shows the average monthly rainfall:

Days with rain are frequent in the winter months, contributing to cooler and wetter conditions.

Average Snow In Beirut, Lebanon

Snowfall is extremely rare in Beirut. The city’s coastal location and Mediterranean climate keep temperatures too high for snow to form.

Throughout the year, Beirut rarely sees a day that dips below 46°F, making snow nearly impossible.

Though snow and ice can be common in other regions at higher elevations or different latitudes, Beirut’s climate is primarily characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Therefore, any significant accumulation of snow does not occur in this coastal city.

Average Sun In Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, which varies slightly by season. The city’s climate ensures that residents and visitors can usually count on sunny days, especially in the summer months.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Beirut, Lebanon

The average daily shortwave solar energy in Beirut is an important factor for planning outdoor activities and knowing how much sunlight the city receives.

January: 2.4 kWh/m²
February: 2.9 kWh/m²
March: 3.7 kWh/m²
April: 4.8 kWh/m²
May: 5.7 kWh/m²
June: 6.8 kWh/m²
July: 7.2 kWh/m²
August: 6.8 kWh/m²
September: 5.8 kWh/m²
October: 4.4 kWh/m²
November: 3.1 kWh/m²
December: 2.4 kWh/m²

In the summer, from June to August, Beirut experiences the highest levels of solar energy, peaking in July.

This period provides the best conditions for enjoying outdoor activities and beach visits.

In contrast, the winter months see less sunlight, with December and January having the lowest levels of solar energy.

Average Humidity In Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. The relative humidity typically ranges from 60% to 70%, which can often feel muggy, especially during the summer months.

The dew point also plays a crucial role in how humid it feels. Averaging around 57°F, it can rise significantly in the summer, contributing to a muggy atmosphere.

Monthly Humidity Levels

The summer months of July and August are typically the most humid, leading to a higher relative humidity.

Highs and Lows

• Highest Humidity: August, with an average of 70%.
• Lowest Humidity: May, with an average of 60%.

Average Wind In Beirut, Lebanon

Wind patterns in Beirut vary throughout the year.

Monthly Average Wind Speed

March is the windiest month, with wind speeds reaching up to 12 mph on average.

Predominant Wind Direction

During the winter months, the predominant wind direction is from the northwest. This brings cooler temperatures and higher wind speeds.

In the summer, winds often shift to come from the south, usually providing a gentle breeze.

Wind speeds are generally higher during the cooler months from November to April.

They start decreasing during the spring, reaching the lowest speeds in June, July, and August.

Average Air Quality In Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut’s air quality varies throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is an important measure used to understand this variation. The AQI categorizes air quality levels based on pollutants like PM2.5 and ground-level ozone.

According to real-time data, Beirut experiences moderate air quality levels most of the year. The AQI ranges from 43 to 60, which falls into the “Moderate” category. This means the air might pose a health risk to sensitive individuals.

Monthly Average AQI

Weather Conditions Impacting Air Quality

Pressure: Beirut’s average pressure is generally stable, contributing to moderate air quality.

UV Index: The UV Index is often high, indicating strong sunlight which can increase ground-level ozone.

Visibility: Visibility in Beirut typically ranges around 6-9 miles, affected by particulate matter on high pollution days.

Cloud Cover: Cloud cover fluctuates, but clearer days can lead to higher ozone levels.

Detailed information on Beirut’s air quality can be accessed at websites like IQAir and The Weather Channel.

Topography Of Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, is located along the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea. The city’s topography is diverse, with a mixture of coastal plains and hills.

Elevation:

• Average elevation: 476 feet (145 meters)
• Minimum elevation: -7 feet (-2 meters)
• Maximum elevation: 4,124 feet (1,257 meters)

Much of Beirut’s landscape consists of hills and valleys. The average elevation provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Rainfall: Beirut receives an average annual rainfall of 32.5 inches (825 millimeters). Most of this rainfall occurs between October and April.

Notable Areas:

• Ramlet El-Baida: Known for its sandy beaches
• Ras Beirut: Famous for its mix of residential and commercial spaces

The city’s coastal location impacts its climate and weather patterns, making it milder in comparison to inland areas. This topographical variety contributes to Beirut’s appeal, offering a mix of urban development and natural landscapes.

A table showing monthly rainfall:

Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon experiences a range of extreme weather events throughout the year.

Winter Weather

In February 2023, severe winter weather hit Lebanon with temperatures dropping significantly. Snow fell at high altitudes and rain was more common at lower elevations.

Heatwaves

In recent years, Lebanon has faced an increasing number of heatwaves. These extreme temperature spikes can lead to intense heat during the summer months.

Floods and Fires

Extreme weather events such as floods and fires are becoming more frequent. These events occur due to changing climate conditions.

Rainfall Extremes

Precipitation in Beirut can vary widely. While not frequent, heavy rainfall can occur, contributing to urban flooding.

Lebanon’s Climate Portal offers more details on how extremes differ from the mean here.

Severe Storms

Lebanon has been subjected to severe storms, which can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and occasional hail. These storms can lead to significant damage.

Historical Events

Notably, the Beirut port explosion in August 2020 was a man-made disaster but was worsened by existing economic and climatic challenges facing the region.

Best Time Of The Year To Visit Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon is known for its mild winters and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit often depends on what one wants to experience, whether it’s beaches, cooler weather, or cultural events.

What Is Beirut, Lebanon Like In Spring

Spring in Beirut (March to May) offers a comfortable climate with mild temperatures. Average highs range from 65°F (18°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May. Rainfall during this season decreases, creating a pleasant environment for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy cultural festivals, blooming flowers, and beautiful coastal views.

What Is Beirut, Lebanon Like In Summer

Summer (June to August) in Beirut is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 91°F (33°C).

June, July, and August are the best months for beach activities as the sea temperature also warms up to a comfortable 75°F (24°C).

Beachgoers can spend long days swimming and sunbathing without worrying about rain, as these months are also quite dry.

What Is Beirut, Lebanon Like In Fall

Autumn in Beirut (September to November) is warm and slightly cooler than summer.

September can be quite hot, with average highs around 86°F (30°C), while November cools down to around 70°F (21°C).

This season sees an increase in rainfall, especially in November. It’s still a good time to visit for those who prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

What Is Beirut, Lebanon Like In Winter

Winters (December to February) in Beirut are mild and rainy.

January is the coldest month, with high temperatures around 61°F (16°C) and lows around 50°F (10°C). Rainfall peaks, especially in December and January, making it the wettest time of the year.

Although it’s cooler, the mild temperature allows for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s indoor attractions.