Climate and monthly weather forecast
Baghdad, Iraq

Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, experiences a Subtropical desert climate based on the Köppen climate classification. Positioned within the centre of the country along the Tigris River, Baghdad's weather patterns mirror the BWh climate code, characterized by long, incredibly hot and arid summers, and mild, somewhat moist winters. There exist distinct variations in temperature, rainfall, and sunlight throughout the year, creating a unique environment.

A glance at the yearly weather data reveals vast fluctuations in temperature, with the mercury swinging sharply from 4°C (39.2°F) in the winter months to a scorching 44°C (111.2°F) in the summer. Rainfall in Baghdad is scarce and occurs primarily in the cooler months, with approximately 31mm (1.22") in January, tapering off to a virtually non-existent state between June and September. Another noticeable climatic feature in Baghdad is its abundant sunlight. The city is daily bathed in sunlight varying from 6 hours per day in January and December to a dazzling 14 hours in the peak of summertime.

A striking feature of Baghdad's weather is its minimal rainfall during the mid-year months, with not a drop of rain reported from June to September. Contrastingly, January, November, and December witness the heaviest rainfall, although it is still at an insignificant level compared to other locations. Additionally, the sweltering heat of July and August, with temperatures soaring to 44°C (111.2°F) and 43°C (109.4°F) respectively, arguably constitute the most extreme weather phase in Baghdad.

Considering Baghdad’s hot desert climate, ideal time for visitors highly depends on the ability to endure high temperatures. Despite of that, a common consensus discerns that the window from November to April offers the most amiable weather situation. During these months, temperatures mainly hover between 6°C (42.8°F) and 24°C (75.2°F). Rainfall is relatively higher, yet still low at its peak, allowing for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. The capital’s desert surroundings are responsible for the cooling temperatures after sundown even during this period which offers a respite after warmer day temperatures.

It is advisable to steer clear of Baghdad during the peak summer months from June to September. These sweltering months see the mercury surge well above 40°C (104°F), frequently reaching oppressive temperatures of 44°C (111.2°F) in July. What is fueling this discomfort furthermore is the near total absence of rain, thus rendering these months inhospitably hot and dry. The UV Index also peaks during these months at a level of 11, indicating a need for extra precautions against sun exposure.

Spring arrives in Baghdad from March to May. March initiates the season with average highs and lows of 23°C (73.4°F) and 10°C (50°F) respectively. Daylight hours increase from 12 in March to 13.9 in May, offering ample opportunity to explore the city. While rainfall minimizes as spring progresses, from 33mm (1.3") in March to a mere 8mm (0.31") in May, it remains a feature of the spring season in Baghdad.

Summers in Baghdad, which span from June to September, are arduous and intensely hot. The city faces temperatures climbing steadily from 33°C (91.4°F) in June to a scorching 44°C (111.2°F) in July. Nights provide slight relief, with temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 26°C (78.8°F), but without any rainfall or cloud cover, the intense heat predominates. There are long sunlight hours, rising to a peak of 14.3 hours in June.

Autumn marks a transition from the intense summer into the milder winter from October to November. Temperatures dwell in a more comfortable range between a high of 33°C (91.4°F) in October to 24°C (75.2°F) in November and lows drop from 16°C (60.8°F) in October to a cooler 10°C (50°F) in November. Rainfall begins to appear, albeit faintly, by November with 21mm (0.83") precipitation. Sunshine hours reduce but still afford a plentiful 9 to 7 hours daily.

Winter is relatively mild in Baghdad, lasting from December to February. Daytime temperatures are welcoming, ranging between 17°C (62.6°F) to 16°C (60.8°F), whereas nighttime temperatures can drop to as low as 4°C (39.2°F) to 6°C (42.8°F), making them the coldest months of the year. This period sees the most rainfall, reaching a yearly high of 31mm (1.22") in January. However, with daylight of nearly 10 hours, winters in Baghdad offer a welcome respite from the punishing summer heat.

Baghdad, Iraq, welcomes the new year with mild temperatures, where the average high is 16°C (60.8°F) and the low is at 4°C (39.2°F). This month is characterized by shorter daylight hours, comparatively chillier conditions, and rainfall as a constant companion. Weather in January »

As the second month of the year commences, Baghdad, Iraq experiences a slight climb in temperatures as compared to the preceding month, making February slightly warmer and pleasant. Rainfall continues to play a significant role in shaping the city’s weather with an average of 28mm (1.1") throughout the month. Weather in February »

March in Baghdad, Iraq signals the advent of the spring season. It is characterized by a notable leap in the average high temperature to 23°C (73.4°F) from the chillier wintertime temperatures witnessed in previous months. The number of daylight hours stretches to 12 signifying longer and sunlit days, an indication of the advancing season. Weather in March »

The weather in April in Baghdad, Iraq is characterized by a swift increase in temperatures, marking the gradual shift from spring to summer. Temperatures, especially during daytime, rise significantly to reach an average high of 29°C (84.2°F). Weather in April »

May in Baghdad, Iraq, rings in the typical Middle Eastern heat, preparing residents for the hot summer ahead. With an average high soaring to 36°C (96.8°F), the city records the first signs of the intense summertime temperatures. Weather in May »

The pinnacle of summer is reached in June in Baghdad, Iraq, with temperatures continuing to rise. June sees the temperature climb to a scorching high of 41°C (105.8°F), the city's highest average temperature for the year. Extended sunshine hours coupled with the highest UV index of the year, makes it advisable for residents to take protective measures against the powerful sun rays. Weather in June »

July continues the hot and dry trend in Baghdad, Iraq, making it one of the hottest months of the year. July marks the peak of summer with maximum temperature hitting 44°C (111.2°F), making it the hottest month on record. The month is characterized by very high UV index, requiring residents to take maximum sun protection. Weather in July »

Weather in august in Baghdad, Iraq, sustains the summer's hot temperatures. August records a similar temperature pattern as July, with the average high slightly dipping to 43°C (109.4°F) yet remaining extremely hot. Prolonged daylight hours coupled with a high UV index continue the trend of sun protection advisories. Weather in August »

In September, Baghdad, Iraq starts to experience a subtle drop in temperatures, marking the outset of fall. The month witnesses a gradual cooling trend with the temperature hovering around 40°C (104°F). The weather is still quite hot, but there is a perceptible variation compared to the soaring temperatures of August. Weather in September »

Fall sets in full swing in Baghdad, Iraq, during October. October experiences a significant drop in the temperature making the weather more pleasant than the preceding months. After the long phase of zero rainfall from May to September, October finally breaks the dry spell with a minor rainfall of 4mm (0.16"). Weather in October »

November in Baghdad, Iraq, presents a marked change in weather conditions, providing residents respite from the high temperatures. The month witnesses a further decline in temperature, with the average high temperature dropping to 24°C (75.2°F). Weather in November »

Baghdad, Iraq, in December is branded by chilly temperatures and a palpable winter vibe. With the average high temperature descending to 17°C (62.6°F), the city witnesses one of the chilliest months of the year. December brings with it an increase in rainfall, with an average recorded rainfall of 26mm (1.02"), making it one of the wetter months. Weather in December »