Weather in Asmara

Planning your day in the city of Asmara? Check out the current weather updates and forecasts right here.

The climate in Asmara can be characterised as temperate and very pleasant throughout the year. The city is distinguished by remarkably stable temperatures: monthly averages fluctuate within a comfortable range from 17.5°C in January to 22.8°C in June. This means there is neither scorching heat nor severe cold here, making Asmara an attractive destination to visit at any time of the year.

Asmara has two distinct seasons, defined primarily by rainfall rather than sharp temperature changes. For most of the year, from September to June (with the exception of April), dry and sunny weather prevails with minimal rainfall, usually not exceeding 1-2 mm per month. However, from July to August, a distinct, albeit short, rainy season arrives. During these months, precipitation increases to 5-9 mm, and the number of rainy days can reach 26-29 per month. April also stands out with an increased number of days with precipitation (18 days), although the total amount remains small (2 mm).

Despite the increase in rainfall in July and August, temperatures during this period remain sufficiently high and comfortable, decreasing only slightly compared to the peak in June. Overall, the weather conditions in Asmara are conducive to a pleasant holiday, especially for those who appreciate a mild climate and prefer to avoid extreme temperatures, enjoying predominantly dry and sunny days outside the short rainy season.

In Asmara, a remarkably steady and pleasant temperature regime is observed throughout the year, without sharp fluctuations between seasons. The annual amplitude of average temperatures is small: the coolest month, January, has an average temperature of about 17.5°C (minimum nightly 12.2°C, maximum daily 22.8°C), while the warmest, June, warms up on average to 22.8°C (minimum nightly 17.2°C, maximum daily 28.5°C). May is also one of the warmest months with an average temperature of 22.4°C and maximums reaching up to 28.0°C.

The summer months, especially May and June, are characterised by warm and predominantly dry weather, when daytime temperatures can reach 28-28.5°C. With the arrival of the main rainy season in July and August, average temperatures drop somewhat (to 21.3°C and 20.4°C respectively), and maximum daytime values fall to 25.7°C in July and 24.4°C in August. Despite this, the weather remains warm, although more humid. Nights in the summer period are also warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 16.5-17.2°C.

The winter period in Asmara, covering the months from December to February, is distinguished by mild and cool weather. Daytime temperatures at this time usually fluctuate in the range of 22-24°C, creating comfortable conditions for walking. Nights, however, can be quite fresh: minimum temperatures drop to 12-13°C. A feature of Asmara's climate is the noticeable diurnal temperature variation, especially in the dry months, when the difference between daytime maximums and nightly minimums can be 10-12°C. In the rainy months (July, August), this difference is somewhat smoothed out.

In Asmara, a distinct seasonality of precipitation is observed, with snow being uncharacteristic for this region, and all precipitation falling predominantly as rain. The city has a clearly defined short rainy season and a prolonged dry period.

The main rainy season in Asmara falls during the summer months – July and August. It is during this time that the greatest amount of precipitation falls. August is the wettest month of the year with an average figure of 9 mm of precipitation and an impressive 29 rainy days. July is also quite wet, with 5 mm of precipitation and 26 days when rain is probable. Although the absolute amount of precipitation might not seem very large, the high frequency of rainy days during this period indicates that the rains are likely frequent, possibly drizzly or moderate, rather than rare heavy downpours.

Most of the year in Asmara is characterised as the dry season. The least amount of precipitation (only 1 mm per month) falls in January, February, March, October, November, and December. At the same time, even in the driest months, a certain number of days with precipitation may be observed: for example, in October there are on average 6, and in January and November – about 10, which suggests the possibility of very light and short-lived rains. April, May, June, and September also feature low rainfall levels (2 mm), however, April stands out among them with a large number of days with precipitation – 18 days, indicating more frequent, albeit insignificant, rains compared to other months of the transitional period.

When planning a trip to Asmara, it is important to consider its unique climate. Thanks to moderate temperatures year-round, you won't need overly warm or, conversely, exclusively light clothing. The key principle when packing your suitcase should be layering. During the day, especially from March to June when the temperature reaches 26-28.5°C, you will be comfortable in light clothing made from natural fabrics – t-shirts, short-sleeved shirts, light trousers, or skirts. However, evenings and early mornings, especially in the winter months (December-February), can be quite cool, with temperatures dropping to 12-14°C, so a light sweater, cardigan, or jacket will be very handy.

Particular attention should be paid to the rainy season, which falls in July and August, and to a lesser extent in April. During these months, despite the warm weather persisting, the number of rainy days increases significantly. Therefore, a light umbrella or a waterproof windbreaker will become your indispensable companions. The rest of the year is dominated by dry and sunny weather, so don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection against the active high-altitude sun. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are mandatory, as Asmara is a city that is pleasant to explore on foot.

In general, your wardrobe for Asmara should be versatile. Light breathable fabrics for daytime walks, something warmer for evening outings or cool days, and definitely rain protection if your trip falls in July-August. A small backpack or bag for day excursions, where you can put a bottle of water, an umbrella, and a light jacket, will also be a useful addition to your luggage.