Weather in Cairo

Are you planning a trip to Cairo or simply interested in the weather in the capital of Egypt? Here you will find the freshest information on weather conditions, including detailed forecasts and useful charts.

The climate in Cairo is characterized as arid desert. This means the city enjoys a large amount of sunlight year-round, with very low rainfall levels. The weather in Cairo is generally predictable, with hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking warmth and sun.

Two main seasons can be distinguished in Cairo. Summer, which lasts roughly from May to September, can be very hot and dry, with average temperatures often rising above 30°C, and maximum values reaching 36-37°C. Winter, from December to February, is significantly milder and more pleasant, with average temperatures around 14-16°C. The spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) months are transitional, offering warm and comfortable weather.

One of the most notable features of Cairo's climate is the extremely low amount of precipitation. For most of the year, rain is practically absent, and even on the few days classified as "wet", rainfall amounts are minimal. This means you can confidently plan active outdoor recreation without fearing sudden downpours.

The temperature regime in Cairo demonstrates significant fluctuations throughout the year, which is typical for the desert climate of Egypt. The annual temperature range is quite wide: from cool winter nights to sweltering summer days. The hottest months are traditionally July and August, when the average air temperature holds at the 30.0°C mark. During these months, daytime highs can reach 37.1°C in July and 36.7°C in August. Conversely, the coldest month is considered to be January, with an average temperature of 14.3°C and nighttime lows dropping to 9.1°C. A characteristic feature of Cairo's climate is the noticeable diurnal temperature variation, where the difference between day and night readings can be 10-15°C, which is especially felt during the transitional seasons and winter.

The summer months in Cairo, from May to September, bring dry heat. Already in May, the average temperature rises to 26.0°C, and the daytime maximum can reach 33.6°C. June continues this trend with an average temperature of 28.6°C and peaks up to 35.9°C. As mentioned, July and August are the height of the Cairo summer, with maximum temperatures consistently exceeding the 35°C mark. Even nights during this period remain very warm: the minimum temperature in August averages 23.2°C. In September, the heat subsides slightly, but the average temperature is still high at 28.5°C, with daytime highs up to 34.9°C.

Winter in Cairo, lasting from December to February, is distinguished by its mildness and is a comfortable time to visit the city. In December, the average temperature is 16.6°C, during the day the air warms up to a pleasant 21.7°C, although at night it can drop to 11.4°C. January brings the lowest temperatures: an average of 14.3°C, daytime around 19.5°C, and nighttime can be just 9.1°C. February is slightly warmer than January, with an average temperature of 15.2°C, daytime highs up to 20.9°C, and nighttime lows around 9.5°C. Such winter conditions are ideal for long walks and exploring the numerous attractions of Cairo without the exhausting summer heat.

Cairo is distinguished by an extremely arid climate, which is reflected in the annual distribution of precipitation. Data analysis shows that throughout the year, the amount of precipitation in the city tends toward zero. In fact, 0 mm of precipitation is indicated for every month, testifying to the extremely low probability of rain in any season. Such a phenomenon is typical for desert regions, to which the capital of Egypt belongs.

Despite the zero amount of precipitation, a small number of so-called "wet days" are recorded in some months. This means that traces of moisture or extremely insignificant, barely noticeable precipitation may be observed. The greatest number of such days falls in February (on average 2 days), as well as one day each in January, March, and December. In the remaining months, from April to November inclusive, wet days are completely absent. Thus, it can be said that the period from April to November is an absolutely dry season, while the winter months and early spring may be characterized by isolated instances of very light precipitation.

Based on the data presented, there is no pronounced rainy season in Cairo. Visitors to the city practically do not need to worry about umbrellas or raincoats at any time of the year. Snow, considering the climatic conditions and temperature regime of Cairo, is an extremely unlikely phenomenon. When planning a trip, you can confidently count on dry and sunny weather most of the time.

When planning a trip to Cairo, it is important to choose the right wardrobe to feel comfortable in any weather. Given that the climate in Egypt is predominantly hot and dry, the basis of your luggage should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. This is especially relevant for the summer months (from May to September), when the average maximum temperature often exceeds 35°C. Do not forget sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and headwear (a hat, cap, or scarf) for protection against intense solar radiation. Since precipitation in Cairo is extremely rare (0 mm practically year-round), you will likely not need an umbrella. However, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute necessity, as you will be walking a lot while exploring the numerous sights.

Although summer in Cairo is very hot, winter (from December to February) brings more moderate temperatures, with average values around 14-16°C. During the day it can be pleasant and sunny, but evenings and nights can be quite cool, with temperatures dropping to 9-11°C. Therefore, for a winter trip, it is worth providing for a few warm items: a light jacket or windbreaker, a sweater or fleece top, jeans or thick trousers. The principle of layering in clothing will be very appropriate here – it will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. In the transitional seasons (March-April and October-November), the weather is usually very comfortable, but a light cardigan or shawl for evening walks will also not go amiss.