When planning a trip to Dessie, it is useful to assess the current weather conditions. This will allow you to better understand the nature of the local climate and determine how comfortable conditions will be for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Below you will find up-to-date data, detailed charts, and a forecast for the coming days, which will help you prepare properly for your journey.
The climate of the city of Dessie can be characterized as mild and moderately warm, which is typical for highland regions. There is practically no extreme heat here: the average annual temperature remains surprisingly stable, creating a sensation of "eternal spring." During the day, the air usually warms up to a comfortable +20...+25°C; however, nights can be quite fresh, sometimes with temperatures dropping below +10°C, so tourists are advised to carry warm clothing for evening walks.
An important feature of the local weather is the distinct seasonality of rainfall. Throughout the year, there are specific rainy periods, with the peak number of inclement days falling in July and August. At the same time, from October to February, the region experiences predominantly dry and clear weather. This time is considered the most favourable for visiting Ethiopia and comfortably exploring the city without the need to constantly check the weather forecast.
The climate in Dessie is distinguished by its surprising mildness and lack of extreme fluctuations, making a trip here comfortable at almost any time of the year. The annual temperature regime is very stable: the highest average indicators are recorded in June (around 18.9°C), while December is considered the coolest month with an average temperature of 14.5°C. Even during the warmest period, which occurs in late spring and early summer, the daytime maximum rarely exceeds 25°C, so there is no exhausting heat here.
The summer season is characterized by pleasant warmth, although it is worth noting that by July and August, average temperatures drop slightly compared to June. The winter months in this region of Ethiopia resemble a pleasant spring: during the day, the air warms up to a comfortable 20–21°C. This is an ideal time for excursions and walks, as the weather remains clear and moderately warm, without any hint of frost or severe cold.
An important feature of the local climate is the noticeable difference between day and night temperatures. While the sun provides comfortable warmth during the day, the air cools down quickly after sunset. In the winter period, for example in January and December, night-time readings can drop to 8–9°C, while during the day they return to the 21°C mark. Travellers are recommended to bring layered clothing to feel cosy during the cool evenings.
The pattern of rainfall in the city of Dessie changes significantly depending on the season, alternating between dry periods and times of high humidity. The driest month is December, when rains practically cease, and the number of days with precipitation is minimal (averaging just 2 days). Similar comfortable conditions for walks without an umbrella are observed in November and, notably, in June.
The peak of the rainy season falls at the end of summer. The wettest month is considered to be August: at this time, precipitation occurs very frequently, with up to 26 rainy days recorded on average, although the intensity may be moderate. Travellers should also take the spring period into account: in March and April, the weather becomes less stable, bringing with it 15–18 days of rainfall monthly.
When setting off on a journey to Dessie, you should plan for the moderately warm climate of this region. There is rarely any exhausting heat here, so the basis of your wardrobe should be the principle of layering. During the day, you will be comfortable in light t-shirts, shirts, or cotton trousers, but evenings and nights can be quite cool when the temperature drops to +8...+10 °C. Be sure to bring a warm sweater, a fleece jacket, or a light mid-season jacket to feel cosy after the sun goes down.
Pay special attention to protection against rain if you plan your trip in July or August — these are the wettest months of the year. During this period, as well as in spring (in March and April), a reliable raincoat, a water-repellent windbreaker, or a sturdy umbrella will become indispensable companions. In other months, the weather is drier, but a light cover-up for the wind will still be useful.
For walking around the city and its surroundings, choose the most comfortable footwear possible: broken-in sneakers or light trekking boots with non-slip soles are ideal. Do not forget about sun protection either — even with cloudy weather and moderate temperatures, UV radiation can be high, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a head covering will come in handy at any time of the year.
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