The climate of Aksum
Occupying a significant area in
Ethiopia,
Aksum boasts a Subtropical steppe climate, labeled as BSh under the Köppen climate classification system. This particular type of climate remains predominantly dry, with relatively warm temperatures. Regardless of the season, Aksum consistently offers pleasant and mild weather conditions with temperatures oscillating between a low of 6.7°C (44.1°F) and a peak of 29.4°C (84.9°F) throughout the year. The monitored daylight hours highlight a minor shift from the minimum of 11.3 hours to a maximum of 13 hours, while sunshine persists for about 9 hours daily, except during
July and
August when it reduces to 6 hours a day.
Throughout the year, rainfall in Aksum primarily shifts from a meager 1mm (0.04") in
December to the highest volume of 221mm (8.7") in July. Furthermore, the occurrence of rainfall days increases from 2 days in
November and December to 10 days in August. The UV index, another critical environmental parameter, ranges between 9 in December and the height of 12 from
February to August, suggesting the call for necessary sun protection measures during these months.
A notable weather pattern recorded in Aksum is that the city receives virtually no rainfall from November to February, followed by a somewhat increased volume in
March,
April, and
May, and then a remarkable surge in
June, July, and August. This trend creates a somewhat distinct rainy season during the summer months.
The best time to visit Aksum
Considering the fluctuating weather variables, the ideal time to visit
Aksum would be from
November to
February. These months mark the dry season, featuring almost non-existent rain, plentiful sunshine hours, and an average daylight duration of 11.5 to 11.7 hours. Additionally, temperature highs during this period remain between 22.3°C (72.1°F) and 26.3°C (79.3°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing engagements.
The worst time to visit Aksum
Those wishing to avoid heavy rain, alongside potential accessibility issues, might want to steer clear of travel plans from
June to
August. These months are the peak of the rainy season when rain swells from 67mm (2.64") in June, peaks at 221mm (8.7") in
July, and somewhat relents to 199mm (7.83") in August. Correspondingly, the number of rainy days escalates from 8 in June to 10 in August.
Spring weather in Aksum
The season of Spring takes residence in
Aksum from
March until
May with temperatures ascending from the spring low of 25.9°C (78.6°F) to a high of 29.4°C (84.9°F). Rainfall rises gradually from 3mm (0.12") in March to 31mm (1.22") in May, and daylight typically persists for about 12 hours and 20 minutes during this period. Sunshine lasts approximately 9 hours per day, and the UV index is at its peak, highlighting the need for sun protection.
Summer weather in Aksum
Aksum experiences its summer from
June to
August. This period is hallmarked by a dramatic increase in rainfall, with the volume surging from 67mm (2.64") in June to a peak of 221mm (8.7") in
July before slightly receding to 199mm (7.83") in August. To correspond with this, the number of rainy days increases to the year's peak of 10. On the temperature front, averages hover between a low of 12.4°C (54.3°F) in June to a high of 29.4°C (84.9°F) in July, while daylight remains consistent at about 13 hours.
Autumn weather in Aksum
During the autumn months from
September to
November,
Aksum sees a tapering off of rainfall, decreasing from 67mm (2.64") in September to just 13mm (0.51") by November. Temperatures during this season range from a minimum low of 11.1°C (52°F) to a high of 26.8°C (80.2°F). There are about 12 hours of daylight and nine hours of sunshine daily, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Aksum
In
Aksum, the winter season commences from
December and continues until
February. This period stands as the driest part of the year, with negligible rainfall amounts dropping to as low as 1mm (0.04") in December. The temperature varies from a cold 6.7°C (44.1°F) in December to a relatively warm 27.2°C (81°F) in February. On average, there are about 11.5 hours of daylight and 9 hours of sunshine over this period, offering an excellent window for tourist activities.
Weather in January
January weather in
Aksum,
Ethiopia, is characterized by a sunny and slightly cooler climate. The temperature slightly drops to its lowest threshold, making it an attractive season for those looking to avoid intense heat. Witnessing only 3 days of rainfall, the city experiences a dry spell in January.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February follows the trend of
January, with subtle changes in temperatures and precipitation. The area sees a gradual increase in temperatures; however, the spirit of the Ethiopian winter is still present. The city experiences a bit longer daylight and negligible changes in rainfall, bestowing clear skies for most of the month.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March introduces the changing face of
Aksum's weather, gearing towards the arrival of spring. The chilly weather slowly fades making way for a warmer vibe. The sunlight exposure remains consistent, while rainfall starts to make a sporadic appearance, hinting at the upcoming wet season.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April gives a warm welcome to the residents and tourists of
Aksum with a further increase in daytime temperatures. The weather of the city is a prelude to the approaching wet season, with precipitation becoming more apparent. The duration of daylight is slightly higher, which allows for extended outdoor activities.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Aksum spotlights the onset of the rainy season. Even though the temperatures continue to rise in the daytime, the increase in precipitation levels brings changes to the overall climate. The citizens start seeing the effects of the rainy season, with slightly heftier showers compared to previous months.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Aksum witnesses a double-face weather picture due to the rainy season. The contrast between the morning sun and afternoon showers becomes more pronounced. With the length of the daylight remaining constant, the UV index plunges to its yearly low.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July marks the apex of the rainy season in
Aksum,
Ethiopia. It is considerably wet with frequent episodes of afternoon showers. However, the reducing daylight doesn’t dampen the spirits as the temperatures are still relatively warm.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the rainy patterns of
July, holding the position of the second wettest month of the year. Consistent showers and overcast skies become a common spectacle in
Aksum during August. Despite the reduced sun exposure, temperatures remain quite comforting.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September experiences a steady decline of rainfall in
Aksum, indicating the rebuff of the wet season. The weather gradually returns to its sunny demeanor with decreased cloud cover. The UV Index rises back to the same level as earlier months, causing increased solar radiation.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October truly marks the onset of the dryer months with a significant drop in precipitation. With ample sunshine, October presents the perfect weather for outdoor activities in
Aksum. The city basks in the golden sunlight, entering the phase of beautiful autumn.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings further reduction in rainfall and a consistent rise in temperature in
Aksum. The weather transitions to dryer conditions, with barely any residual effects of the wet season. The daylight duration also gets slightly shorter, with the sun setting a little earlier.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December wraps up the year with the onset of winter in
Aksum. With practically no rainfall, it resurrects the chills from
January. The daylight hours continue to decrease, indicating the forthcoming longest night and shortest day of the year.
Weather in December »