Israel Weather by Month

Israel, located in the Middle East along the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, shares borders with Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. The country is geographically diverse, featuring coastal plains, mountain ranges, desert regions, and fertile valleys. Israel’s relatively small size—approximately 22,145 square kilometers—belies its wide range of landscapes and climates.

The geography of Israel can be divided into four main regions: the coastal plain, which runs along the Mediterranean Sea; the central mountain range, including the Galilee in the north and the Judean Mountains around Jerusalem; the Jordan Rift Valley, which includes the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth; and the Negev Desert, which spans much of southern Israel. The climate in Israel is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters in the north and center, while the southern and eastern parts experience arid, desert conditions. The weather can vary significantly by region and season, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Israel Weather by Month

January

General Overview

• Average temperature: 6°C to 17°C (43°F to 63°F)
• Rainfall: Wettest month of the year, particularly in the north and coastal regions

January is the heart of winter in Israel, with cooler temperatures and significant rainfall, especially in the northern and coastal areas. Cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa experience wet and mild conditions, while Jerusalem can be cold, with the possibility of snow. The Negev Desert, however, remains dry, though temperatures are cooler compared to summer. The winter months are ideal for travelers interested in exploring historical and cultural sites without the summer heat.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions (Tel Aviv, Haifa): Cool and wet, with temperatures between 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Mountain regions (Jerusalem): Colder with potential snowfall, temperatures between 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F)
• Negev Desert (Eilat): Mild and dry, with temperatures between 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)

January is ideal for indoor sightseeing, cultural exploration, and experiencing Israel’s historical sites in cooler weather, although travelers should be prepared for rain.

February

General Overview

• Average temperature: 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F)
• Rainfall: Still rainy, but less so than January

February remains part of the winter season, but rainfall begins to decrease compared to January. Coastal and northern regions continue to experience cooler, rainy weather, while the central mountainous regions may still see some cold snaps. The Negev Desert remains warm and dry, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking milder winter conditions. By the end of February, the landscape begins to bloom, signaling the start of spring.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Cool and rainy, with temperatures between 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Mountain regions: Cold with occasional rain, temperatures between 7°C to 13°C (45°F to 55°F)
• Negev Desert: Mild and dry, temperatures between 11°C to 22°C (52°F to 72°F)

February is an excellent month for travelers who prefer cooler temperatures and are interested in experiencing the early signs of spring, particularly in the Galilee region and the Negev Desert.

March

General Overview

• Average temperature: 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
• Rainfall: Transition to spring, with decreasing rain and warmer temperatures

March marks the beginning of spring in Israel, with warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall. The northern and coastal regions experience milder weather, while the central and southern regions start to warm up significantly. The landscape becomes green and vibrant, particularly in the Galilee and along the coastal plains. March is an excellent time for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring historical sites, before the summer heat sets in.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F)
• Mountain regions: Cool with some rain, temperatures between 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Negev Desert: Warm and dry, temperatures between 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F)

March offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather and lush landscapes, making it an ideal month for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoor adventures.

April

General Overview

• Average temperature: 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F)
• Rainfall: Minimal rain, with warm temperatures across the country

April is part of the spring season, with pleasant weather across most regions of Israel. The coastal areas are warm, with sunny days and minimal rainfall. The mountainous regions, including Jerusalem, experience comfortable temperatures, while the Negev Desert becomes significantly warmer. This is one of the best months to visit Israel, as the weather is ideal for exploring both the cities and the countryside. The spring bloom is still in full effect, making nature particularly beautiful.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F)
• Mountain regions: Mild with occasional cool breezes, temperatures between 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F)
• Negev Desert: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 17°C to 29°C (63°F to 84°F)

April is one of the best months for visiting Israel, with perfect weather for beach trips, hiking in nature reserves, and exploring the historical and religious sites in Jerusalem.

May

General Overview

• Average temperature: 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F)
• Rainfall: Mostly dry and warm, with summer-like conditions beginning to develop

May marks the transition into summer, with increasingly warm temperatures and little to no rainfall. The coastal regions, including Tel Aviv, are perfect for beach activities, while the interior regions experience warmer days. The Negev Desert becomes quite hot during the daytime, though the nights remain cooler. The Mediterranean Sea is warm enough for swimming, and the long, sunny days are ideal for outdoor exploration.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 19°C to 26°C (66°F to 79°F)
• Mountain regions: Mild and sunny, with temperatures between 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F)
• Negev Desert: Hot during the day, with temperatures between 20°C to 33°C (68°F to 91°F)

May is a great time to visit Israel’s coastal and central regions before the intense summer heat arrives, with plenty of outdoor festivals, beach activities, and cultural events.

June

General Overview

• Average temperature: 20°C to 31°C (68°F to 88°F)
• Rainfall: Dry and hot, with summer fully in swing

June marks the official start of summer in Israel, with hot, dry conditions across most of the country. Coastal regions are warm but moderated by the Mediterranean Sea breeze, while the central and southern regions experience rising temperatures. The Negev Desert becomes very hot, particularly during the day, but remains a popular destination for travelers seeking desert landscapes. The beaches of Tel Aviv and Haifa are bustling, and the sea is warm, perfect for swimming and water sports.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Hot and sunny, with temperatures between 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)
• Mountain regions: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
• Negev Desert: Extremely hot, with temperatures between 23°C to 37°C (73°F to 99°F)

June is ideal for beach vacations and city exploration in coastal regions, though travelers to the desert should be prepared for extreme heat.

July

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23°C to 34°C (73°F to 93°F)
• Rainfall: Very hot and dry, especially in the interior and desert regions

July is one of the hottest months in Israel, with temperatures soaring across the country. The coastal areas remain relatively cooler, thanks to the Mediterranean Sea, but humidity can be high. The interior regions, including Jerusalem, experience hot days and warm nights. The Negev Desert is extremely hot, making travel there during the daytime challenging. This is peak summer, with many locals and tourists flocking to the beaches.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Hot and humid, with temperatures between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
• Mountain regions: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F)
• Negev Desert: Scorching, with temperatures between 26°C to 40°C (79°F to 104°F)

July is best for beachgoers and those who enjoy the sun, but it can be uncomfortably hot for sightseeing, particularly in the interior and desert regions.

August

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F)
• Rainfall: Peak summer, with scorching temperatures and no rainfall

August is the hottest month of the year in Israel, with intense heat across the country. The coastal cities remain popular destinations for beach vacations, but the humidity can be stifling. Inland areas, including Jerusalem and the Negev Desert, experience extremely high temperatures, making it difficult to explore during the daytime. Evenings are warm and pleasant, with many outdoor events and festivals taking place after sunset.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Hot and humid, with temperatures between 26°C to 33°C (79°F to 91°F)
• Mountain regions: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F)
• Negev Desert: Extremely hot, with temperatures between 27°C to 41°C (81°F to 106°F)

August is ideal for beach vacations and evening activities but challenging for daytime sightseeing due to the extreme heat.

September

General Overview

• Average temperature: 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F)
• Rainfall: Slightly cooler, with the beginning of autumn in late September

September marks the transition from summer to autumn in Israel, with slightly cooler temperatures, particularly toward the end of the month. Coastal areas remain warm and perfect for beach activities, while the interior regions begin to experience more comfortable weather. The Negev Desert remains hot, but the extreme heat starts to ease. The Jewish holiday season also begins in September, making it a culturally rich time to visit.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F)
• Mountain regions: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 21°C to 30°C (70°F to 86°F)
• Negev Desert: Hot, with temperatures between 24°C to 38°C (75°F to 100°F)

September is a great time to visit Israel, particularly in the second half of the month, when temperatures become more moderate and outdoor activities are more comfortable.

October

General Overview

• Average temperature: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
• Rainfall: Pleasant autumn weather, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall

October is one of the most pleasant months to visit Israel, with mild autumn weather and clear skies. The temperatures across the country are comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and enjoying the natural landscapes. The Negev Desert is still warm, but the extreme heat of summer has passed, making it more accessible for travelers. Rain is minimal, but the occasional shower may occur toward the end of the month.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Mild and sunny, with temperatures between 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F)
• Mountain regions: Pleasant and cool, with temperatures between 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)
• Negev Desert: Warm, with temperatures between 20°C to 34°C (68°F to 93°F)

October is one of the best months to explore Israel’s cities, historical sites, and natural reserves, with perfect weather conditions across the country.

November

General Overview

• Average temperature: 14°C to 23°C (57°F to 73°F)
• Rainfall: Cooler temperatures and the beginning of the rainy season

November marks the start of the rainy season in Israel, particularly in the northern and coastal regions. However, rainfall is generally light, and temperatures are still mild, making it a good time to visit before the winter sets in. Coastal areas remain pleasant, though rain showers become more frequent. The interior and desert regions are cooler, offering comfortable conditions for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Cool and rainy, with temperatures between 16°C to 22°C (61°F to 72°F)
• Mountain regions: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F)
• Negev Desert: Mild and dry, with temperatures between 16°C to 26°C (61°F to 79°F)

November is a great time for cultural exploration and outdoor activities, with cooler weather and the beginning of the winter rainy season.

December

General Overview

• Average temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
• Rainfall: Cool and rainy, with winter fully setting in

December is the beginning of winter in Israel, with cooler temperatures and frequent rain, especially in the northern and central regions. Coastal cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa experience mild but wet conditions, while Jerusalem and other mountainous areas can be cold, with the possibility of snow. The Negev Desert remains relatively mild and dry, making it a popular winter destination for outdoor activities. The holiday season, including Hanukkah and Christmas, brings festive events and celebrations.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Cool and wet, with temperatures between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F)
• Mountain regions: Cold with potential snowfall, temperatures between 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F)
• Negev Desert: Mild and dry, with temperatures between 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)

December is ideal for winter festivals and exploring Israel’s historical and cultural landmarks, though travelers should be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.

Summary of Israel’s Climate by Region

Coastal Regions (Tel Aviv, Haifa)

• Best months: April to October (warm and dry)
• Wettest months: December to February (cool and rainy)
• Hottest months: July and August (hot and humid)

Mountain Regions (Jerusalem)

• Best months: April to June, September to October (mild and pleasant)
• Wettest months: December to February (cool and rainy)
• Coldest months: January and February (possible snowfall)

Negev Desert (Eilat)

• Best months: October to April (mild and dry)
• Hottest months: June to August (extremely hot)
• Coolest months: December to February (mild temperatures)

Israel’s climate varies significantly by region, with coastal areas experiencing a Mediterranean climate, the interior mountainous regions having cooler winters, and the Negev Desert experiencing extreme heat in the summer and milder winters. The best time to visit depends on the activities and regions of interest, but generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most comfortable weather across the country. The summer months are best for beach activities, while winter is ideal for desert exploration and cultural experiences.