Weather in Mekelle

Stay informed about the latest meteorological changes in the city of Mekelle. Below you will find the latest weather data, detailed forecasts, and visual charts to help you plan your schedule.

The climate of Mekelle can be described as mild and moderate, which is typical for settlements in the Ethiopian Highlands. Thanks to its elevated location, there is no sweltering tropical heat here, and the weather remains comfortable almost all year round. Travellers are welcomed by an atmosphere of "eternal spring" with stable temperatures and plenty of sunny days.

The temperature patterns in the city are remarkably consistent. Throughout the year, average daytime readings fluctuate within a pleasant range of +22°C to +27°C. However, daily variations should be taken into account: nights, especially during the winter months (December and January), can be quite cool, with the air cooling down to +9°C. Therefore, when packing for your trip, it is worth bringing both light clothing and warm items for evening walks.

An important feature of the weather is the clearly defined rainy season. While precipitation is extremely scarce and clear skies prevail from October to May, July and August bring significant humidity. During these summer months, it may rain almost daily (up to 30 rainy days per month), which should be considered when planning outdoor excursions. September serves as a transition period when the rains gradually recede, giving way to the dry season.

Peak temperatures occur during the spring months: in April and May, the air in Mekelle warms up to 27°C. This time, immediately preceding the season of heavy rains, is characterised by the most active sun and stable warmth.

The summer period here has its own specifics and might surprise an unprepared tourist with "cold" weather. In July and August, due to dense cloud cover and frequent rainfall, daytime temperatures drop on average to 18–22°C. During these months, the heat subsides, giving way to freshness and high humidity.

It is important for travellers to consider sharp temperature changes throughout the day, which are especially noticeable during the dry winter season. In December and January, after a comfortable day (around 23–24°C), the air cools rapidly after sunset. Nighttime readings can drop to 9–10°C, so warm clothing will definitely be required for evening walks.

The climate in Mekelle is characterised by a clear alternation between the dry season and the rainy period. If you prefer clear skies, it is best to plan your visit from October to March. During these months, rainfall is extremely rare, and humidity levels are minimal: for example, in January, November, and December, practically zero precipitation is recorded with just 1–2 rainy days.

The picture changes dramatically with the arrival of summer. The wettest months are July and August, when rain becomes a constant companion for travellers. Statistics indicate a record 30 rainy days in each of these months, suggesting a high probability of precipitation almost daily, although intensity may vary.

The spring months and early autumn represent a transitional period. In April, June, and September, the number of rainy days increases to 13–14, but the total volume of precipitation remains moderate. At this time, Ethiopia can delight you with freshness, but it is worth keeping a light raincoat with you in case of short-term bad weather.

When preparing for a trip to Mekelle, keep in mind that the climate here is quite mild and comfortable, without extreme heat. During the day, the air usually warms up to +20…+27 °C, so your wardrobe should consist of light t-shirts, shirts, and trousers made of natural fabrics. However, due to temperature drops at night, especially in December and January, the thermometer can drop to +9 °C. Be sure to bring a warm sweater, fleece jacket, or windbreaker to feel cosy during evening walks. The principle of layering in clothing will be your best helper, allowing you to easily adapt to the weather.

If your trip to Ethiopia is planned for July or August, be prepared for the rainy season: statistics show that precipitation falls almost daily during these months. During this period, a high-quality raincoat, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes are simply essential in your suitcase. In the dry season (from October to February), rains are extremely rare, but the sun at high altitude can be very active. Do not forget to pack sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and a hat, which will be useful at any time of the year. For long walking tours, choose comfortable, broken-in flat shoes.