The climate of Shiraz
Shiraz, located in the south-central region of
Iran, is classified under the Köppen climate classification as BSk, indicating a mid-latitude steppe climate. Characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, relatively dry winters, Shiraz experiences notable variations throughout the year.
Temperatures vary drastically in Shiraz, with highs ranging from 12.1°C (53.8°F) in
January to a scorching 37.8°C (100°F) in
July. On the other hand, the colder periods bring temperatures as low as -0.4°C (31.3°F) in January to a mild 19.9°C (67.8°F) in July. Humidity follows an inverse trend, starting from 65% in January, gradually reducing to the low of 22% in
June, and climbing back to 61% by
December, offering a cyclical shift echoing similar patterns across mid-latitude steppe regions.
Rainfall pattern reflects an interesting aspect of the climate in Shiraz. A substantial part of the annual precipitation falls in the winter months, peaking at 80mm (3.15") in January. Subsequently, the rainfall sharply descends to reach a minimum of 0mm (0") in
August, with nearly absent precipitation during the summer month lending to its steppe climate characterization.
Contrasting the rainfall pattern, the daylight hours increase from 10.5 hours in January to a peak of 14 hours in June and July, before decreasing back to 10.3 hours by December. Sunshine hours also present a coinciding trend with a low of 7 hours in January and
February picking up to a high of 11.9 hours in June, providing a bright and sun-drenched summer.
The best time to visit Shiraz
Considering the temperature, rainfall, and daylight hours, the best time to visit
Shiraz falls between
April and
June. During this period, temperatures range from a comfortable 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 36.1°C (97°F), providing pleasant weather conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Rainfall is also at its minimal during these months with showers limited to 31mm (1.22") in April to virtually no rain in June. Additionally, these months are characterized by the longest daylight hours — from 12.9 hours in April to an impressive 14 hours in June — facilitating long hours for exploration.
The worst time to visit Shiraz
Late summer, particularly
July and
August, could be challenging to visitors unaccustomed to extreme heat. With temperatures soaring up to 37.8°C (100°F) and 37°C (98.6°F) respectively, and with minimum rainfall, travel plans could potentially be affected. Also, although winter months, particularly
December and
January, offer cooler temperatures during this month.
Weather in February
February brings an easing of the winter temperatures, offering a whisper of the imminent spring. The city begins to thaw with 1.2°C (34.2°F) minimum temperature, helping residents shrug off the winter chill. The increase in temperature is accompanied by a decline in snowfall days, marking February as the last month of snowfall until
December.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March announces the arrival of spring in
Shiraz. Temperatures begin to warm up considerably, turning the environment pleasant during the day and cool during nights. The city enjoys 12 hours of daylight, adding a spring touch to every corner.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April dominates spring conditions in
Shiraz, remarkable for warmer days and mildly chilly nights. Overcast skies become a lesser sight, replaced by considerably clear skies enjoying 8.3 hours of sunshine. Even though there is a small amount of rainfall, 31mm (1.22") precisely, the month remains relatively dry.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Spring morphs into summer in
May, with temperatures soaring into the 30s°C. The warmth gets intensified as humidity dips to the lowest for the year, making the heat more palpable. With only 7mm (0.28") of rainfall, May can be considered as the start of the arid period in
Shiraz.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Shiraz features the typical Middle Eastern summer, with the city simmering under high temperatures. June stands out as the perfect time for night-time activities, thanks to mild nights and lasting daylight. Rainfall dwindles down to one-fifth of amm, adding to the burlesque of summer characteristics.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month in
Shiraz, as temperatures peak and rainfall further decreases. The mercury shoots to the highest in the year, marking 37.8°C (100°F). This weather dictates the need for light clothing, ample sun protection, and steady hydration.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August follows in the footsteps of
July, offering no respite from the high temperatures. A dry and hot weather prevails, bearing a close resemblance to arid desert conditions. As the strength of UV index remains the same as in July, sun protection remains a must.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September arrives with a promise of relief from the searing summer temperatures. The days start to shorten, bringing forward the onset of fall. Notably, it is the driest month of the year with no rainfall at all. Despite decreasing daylight, plenty of sunshine illuminates the city throughout the day.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Shiraz in
October presents beautiful weather, as the fall season turns the city into a tapestry of colors. With an average temperature of 27.8°C (82°F), the weather remains pleasant and inviting. With increased daylight and still no considerable rainfall, outdoor enthusiasts find October ideal for venturing out to admire the splendid fall colors.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November indicates a clear shift in weather in
Shiraz, transitioning from autumn to winter. As temperatures drop to 20.5°C (68.9°F), the need for warmer clothes surfaces again. Temperature variation between day and night becomes more distinct.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Concluding the year,
December ushers in the winter season in
Shiraz with the lowest average temperatures. The city witnesses rainfall of 63mm (2.48"), the highest precipitation received throughout the year. Also, days become the shortest in the year, resulting in prolonged nights.
Weather in December »