Climate and monthly weather forecast
Najran, Saudi Arabia

Geography often contributes to the climate of an area and in the case of Najran in Saudi Arabia, it is no different. The region stands as an epitome of subtropical desert climate, falling under the Köppen climate classification 'BWh'. Throughout the year, temperatures oscillate quite substantially, with the mercury stretching from a low of 8.9°C (48°F) to a sweltering high of 39.3°C (102.7°F). The region receives minimal precipitation with rainfall levels ranging from 1mm (0.04") to 19mm (0.75") spread sporadically over the year.

The hottest months in Najran are June through August with the temperatures soaring above 37°C (98.6°F) on an average, July tipping the limit with a peak of 39.3°C (102.7°F). The coldest temperatures make their appearance in the period between December and February, with average lows hovering from 12.5°C (54.5°F) to just 9.5°C (49.1°F). The rainfall doesn't show a consistent pattern, resonating with the unpredictability of desert climate. The months of March and April witness the highest rainfall of 17mm (0.67") and 19mm (0.75") respectively while several months see hardly any rains.

The daylight hours show a mild variation over the year, ranging from 11.1 hours in December to a maximum of 13.2 hours in June. Unsurprisingly, the desert town doesn't see many rainy days and the count fluctuates from 0.2 days to a maximum of 8.3 days in April, the month with the maximum number of rainy days. From these observations, Najran poses as a classic example of subtropical desert climate with relatively large diurnal temperature variation and scanty, irregular rainfall.

Given the desert climate and high temperature variations, the most comfortable time to visit Najran would likely be from November to March. During this period, the temperatures stay below a moderate 28.7°C (83.7°F) and the minimum does not drop below 9.5°C (49.1°F). The daylight hours range from 11.1 hours to 11.7 hours, providing ample sunshine without the sweltering heat of the summer months. These conditions create a weather landscape that is more suitable for outdoor activities without the risk of extreme heat. Rainfall during this period is minimal, with an average of 2mm (0.08") in November and 1mm (0.04") in December.

The desert heat reaches the zenith from May to September, with average high temperatures shooting above 33.8°C (92.8°F) consistently. In particular, July and August experience an intense warmth with high temperatures peaking above 39°C (102.2°F). This period coincides with an increased daylight duration of 13 to 13.2 hours, translating to longer daylight hours under scorching heat. Rainfall is almost negligible during this period, which further deteriorates the conditions. Given the harsh weather conditions, this period can be considered the least advisable for planning a visit to Najran.

Spring in Najran extends from March to May and witnesses a surge in both temperature and rainfall. The highest temperatures move upwards from 31.4°C (88.5°F) to 37°C (98.6°F) while the minimum temperatures range from 15.7°C (60.3°F) to 21.3°C (70.3°F). It is also the season with the highest rainfall, with March and April registering rainfall amounts of 17mm (0.67") and 19mm (0.75") on a haphazard 5.1 and 8.3 days respectively.

Summer in Najran, from June to August, is characterized by high temperatures, long days, and minimal rains. The maximum temperatures revolve around the 39°C (102.2°F) mark while the lows stay close to 24.6°C (76.3°F). The summer months receive little to no rainfall. The average daylight duration is extended to 13.1 to 13.2 hours, adding to the heat.

The autumn season from September to November observes a decline in temperatures. Maximum temperatures fall steadily from 36.8°C (98.2°F) to 28.7°C (83.7°F) and the minimum temperatures trend downwards from 20.5°C (68.9°F) to 12.5°C (54.5°F), marking the transition towards cooler months. Rainfall is sparse with September recording a virtually dry climate.

Winter in Najran lasts from December to February, and it introduces the coolest months. The maximum temperatures are restrained to the limits of 26.1°C (79°F) and 28.7°C (83.7°F) while the minimum plunges to a low point of 9.5°C (49.1°F) in January. The daylight duration is the shortest during these months, ranging from 11.2 hours to 11.1 hours while the rainfall is minimal with values less than 3mm (0.12"). This period marks a respite from the desert heat, rendering an overall pleasant weather condition.

The initial month of the year sees a period of relative coolness in Najran, Saudi Arabia. Weather conditions are relatively calm and stable as daily temperatures range from 8.9°C (48°F) to 25.5°C (77.9°F). Marginal rainfall occurs around January, with 3mm (0.12") typically falling over the span of the month, acting as a lifeline in an overall desert environment. Weather in January »

February sees a consistent climb in temperatures, however these remain mild in comparison to subsequent months. As rainfall drops to 1mm (0.04"), the focus shifts chiefly to the increasing warmth and sunniness around this period. Weather in February »

March comes in, embarking on a significant shift in Najran's weather, characterized by increasing temperatures and precipitation levels. This contrast is prominent with temperatures consistently rising, but surprisingly, March also receives 17mm (0.67") of rainfall, a significant amount for this region. Weather in March »

April shows a continuation of the March pattern, although at more extreme levels. Constant upsurges in temperature are persistent, reaching around 33.8°C (92.8°F). The amount of rainfall is comparable to the previous month, standing at 19mm (0.75"). Weather in April »

Come May, Najran's weather experiences a considerable change. Temperature rule the 30s°C, establishing May’s reputation as the start of the intense heat wave period. The region's rainfall drops significantly, hinting at the prevalent arid conditions. Weather in May »

Following the onset of intense heat in May, June continues this pattern. However, distinguishing June from the previous months is the marginal rainfall, with only 4mm (0.16") recorded for the month. Ample sunlight permeates the region, ensuring a daily average of approximately 13.2 hours. Weather in June »

July, the peak month of summer in Najran, is characterized by exceptionally high temperatures, reaching the annual high of 39.3°C (102.7°F). Despite the relentless sun, rainfall is not absent in July, although scarce at 2mm (0.08"). Weather in July »

August manages to maintain July's high temperatures. With maximal temperatures barely falling, the top temperature in August lingers around 39.2°C (102.6°F). A slight increase is noticed in precipitation, aligned with a consistent reduction in average daily hours of daylight. Weather in August »

September brings a significant break from the preceding heated months. Although temperatures are still high, a considerable decrease is experienced, which points to the arrival of the fall transition period. The rainfall marks a monthly minimum with barely 0mm (0") precipitation. Weather in September »

October continues the path of transition started in September. Noticeable temperature drops indicate the onset of cooler months in Najran. Average rainfall sees an uptick, reaching 5mm (0.2") for the month. Daylight hours continue their progressive descent, limiting the reach of intense heat. Weather in October »

November is marked by a clear shift towards cooler conditions. Although rainfall is reduced to 2mm (0.08"), temperatures take a substantial dip, connoting the approach of the annual cold spell. Reduced daylight hours, approximately 11.3 daily, further alludes to the change in climate. Weather in November »

December wraps up the year with its winter charm, offering the coolness needed after a period of arduous heat in Najran. Despite recording the lowest yearly rainfall of only 1mm (0.04"), temperatures during this period are characterized by a distinctive chill. Weather in December »