When Does Winter Start in Jordan and What Are the Temperatures
Escape the crowds and discover the magic of Jordan in winter! From December to February, enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C, perfect for exploring ancient wonders like Petra and Amman. While snow dusts the mountain peaks, the Dead Sea offers a balmy 20°C escape. Experience a different side of Jordan, with fewer crowds and unique winter landscapes. Plan your off-season adventure today!
Important information
- Winter in Jordan lasts from December to February, offering smaller crowds for tourists.
- Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, with colder conditions in the mountains and warmer temperatures in the desert regions. Some areas can experience temperatures below 0°C at night.
- January is the coldest month, with temperatures between 5°C and 10°C.
- Winter weather includes rain, occasional snowfall (mostly in mountainous regions), and potential flash floods in low-lying areas.
- Coastal areas like Aqaba and the Jordan Valley offer warmer winter temperatures, averaging around 20°C during the day.
When Does Winter Start in Jordan?
Jordan’s winter, from December to February, is the off-season, making it perfect for travelers seeking smaller crowds. While temperatures are cooler, with Amman averaging highs of 55°F (13°C), some mountain regions may even see snowfall.
Winter Months: December to February
Jordanian winters, spanning from December through February, bring cooler temperatures and precipitation, including rain and occasional snowfall. Some regions experience heavier snow than others.
Coldest Month: January
Jordan experiences its chilliest weather in January, with temperatures generally ranging from 5°C to 10°C.
What Are the Temperatures in Jordan During Winter?
Experience Jordan’s mild winters, with temperatures generally ranging from 5°C to 15°C. While some areas may experience freezing temperatures, most regions offer comfortable conditions. Amman, the capital, enjoys average winter temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. Petra, the ancient city, offers a cooler experience, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 12°C. For those seeking warmer temperatures, the Dead Sea provides a balmy escape, with winter temperatures averaging between 14°C and 23°C.
General Temperature Range: 5°C to 15°C
Jordan’s winter temperatures vary depending on the region. In general, expect mild temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Mountainous areas experience significantly colder conditions, and desert regions see warmer temperatures.
Temperature Drop: Below 0°C in Some Areas
While Jordan boasts a warm climate, winter nights (December through February) can bring surprisingly frigid temperatures, often dipping below freezing, especially in mountainous regions like Petra. Therefore, pack warm clothes for a winter trip.
Average Winter Temperature in Amman
Amman offers a unique blend of winter temperatures. While nights are cool, averaging 5°C (41°F), the daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 12°C (54°F). This contrast creates pleasant conditions for exploring the city.
Average Winter Temperature in Petra
Petra experiences chilly winter nights averaging 3°C (37°F), but days warm up to a milder 12°C (54°F). Temperatures drop further at higher elevations.
Average Winter Temperature at the Dead Sea
Winter temperatures at the Dead Sea rarely fall below a balmy 20°C.
Weather Conditions in Jordan’s Winter
Jordan’s winters, spanning from December to February, are characterized by cool, wet weather, often with heavy rains that can lead to flash floods. Snowfall covers the mountains, especially during January and February.
While daylight hours are short and the weather generally harsh, with northern and mountainous areas experiencing colder temperatures, the south offers a pleasant contrast.
Aqaba and the Jordan Valley boast milder conditions, providing a warm escape from the northern chill. Visitors can enjoy sunshine and comfortable temperatures even during the coldest months.
This regional variation makes Jordan an appealing winter destination.
Heavy Rains and Flash Floods
Flash floods are common in Jordan during periods of heavy winter rain, especially in low-lying areas and valleys. Exercise caution during heavy rainfall, as these floods can occur suddenly.
Snowfall in December to February
Jordan typically sees snow dusting its mountains from December to February, especially in regions like Ajloun, Amman, and Jerash. January and February are typically the snowiest months. While a picturesque winter wonderland can appear, snowfall isn’t an annual guarantee and usually arrives during cold snaps. Petra can also experience these snowy spells.
Limited Daylight and Inclement Weather
Experience the unique charm of Jordanian winters with their shorter days and limited sunlight. While unpredictable and harsh weather can make outdoor adventures challenging, the country’s beauty shines through. The desert landscapes are particularly stunning in the cooler temperatures, offering a distinct winter charm.
Regional Winter Weather Variations in Jordan
Amman experiences daytime temperatures between 8°C and 12°C, while nights can drop to a chilly 2°C, with occasional snowfall.
In Petra, expect daytime highs around 10°C, falling to 3°C at night.
Aqaba offers milder weather with daytime temperatures averaging 20°C, and nighttime lows rarely below 10°C.
The Jordan Valley enjoys a similar climate, with daytime highs near 20°C and nighttime temperatures around 10°C.
Wadi Rum presents a stark contrast, with daytime highs near 15°C but nighttime lows plummeting towards freezing.
Winter Weather in Amman
Amman, situated in Jordan’s highlands, experiences cold and wet winters due to its high altitude. While daytime temperatures are mild, nights become significantly colder, and rainfall is common, with occasional snowfall.
Winter Weather in Petra
Experience Petra’s magic in the milder winter months. Comfortable temperatures make exploring the ruins and hiking trails a breeze. Snow is rare, so you can discover Petra’s unique beauty without the summer crowds.
Winter Weather in Aqaba
Escape Jordan’s winter chill in Aqaba, where the mild weather makes it an ideal winter destination.
Winter Weather in the Jordan Valley
The Jordan Valley experiences milder winters than the rest of Jordan. Temperatures typically range from 8°C to 20°C, with less frequent rainfall. Snowfall is rare due to the valley’s low altitude.
Winter Weather in Wadi Rum
Experience the magic of Wadi Rum in winter, with mild days and crisp nights. While temperatures drop significantly after sunset, the daytime sun makes outdoor adventures comfortable. Hike through stunning landscapes and discover the desert’s unique beauty during the cooler months.
